Good Sensory Learning Blog

After reading the recent NY Times article on ADHD diagnoses and stimulant medications, I found myself reflective—not only as an educational therapist but as someone who has spent decades walking alongside students and families trying to make sense of this complex, often misunderstood diagnosis. The article, titled "Have We Been Thinking About A.D.H.D. All Wrong?", was published by The New York Times on October 6, 2023. You can read it here: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/10/06/opinion/adhd-diagnosis-treatment.html. What stood out most to me was the recognition that the long-term academic impact of stimulant medication is far less significant than we’d hoped. As someone who sees...

Stretch Those Thinking Muscles! A Fun New Way to Build Cognitive Flexibility in Kids Let’s be real—life doesn’t always go according to plan. One moment you’re deep in a math lesson, and the next, a surprise fire drill sends you outside… standing in the rain without a jacket. For kids, these sudden shifts can feel like major disruptions. But what if we could equip them with the mental tools to handle surprises, solve problems creatively, and shift gears with confidence?  Say hello to the E-Fun Cognitive Flexibility Workbook—a playful, 49-page printable resource designed to make developing executive functioning skills both...

In every classroom, students are surrounded by a constant flow of sensory input. They hear the teacher’s voice. They see the text on the board. They speak when called on. But here’s the truth: just because students are sensing doesn’t mean they’re processing. Many students know how to hear, but haven’t been taught how to listen. Many can see, but struggle to visualize. And many can speak, but haven’t yet tapped into the power of metacognitive thinking. Learning doesn’t happen through sensory input alone—it happens through sensory processing. The difference lies in whether the learner is subconscious or conscious—whether they’re simply reacting...

In today's fast-paced world, children often face challenges in managing impulses and staying focused. Recognizing this need, I'm excited to introduce the E-Fun Inhibitory Control – Executive Functioning Workbook for Kids, a digital resource designed to empower children with essential self-regulation skills. Understanding Inhibitory Control Inhibitory control is a crucial executive functioning skill that enables individuals to pause and think before acting. It allows children to: Resist distractions Manage impulses Follow directions Stay on task Manage emotions Develop metacognitive skills By strengthening this skill, children can enhance their focus, listening abilities, and decision-making processes. CLICK HERE FOR FREE SAMPLE ACTIVITIES ...

Trust Your Gut—Literally Have you ever had a strong gut feeling about something? That instinctive reaction isn’t just about intuition—it’s also a reflection of how deeply connected your gut is to your brain. While we often think of cognitive functions as being purely brain-based, emerging research is uncovering the critical role that gut health plays in executive functioning. If you’ve ever struggled with brain fog, trouble focusing, impulsivity, or emotional instability, your gut microbiome may be playing a bigger role than you realize. Let’s explore the science behind this fascinating connection. The Science Behind the Gut-Brain Connection What Is the...