In the multi-sensory space I created in my classroom, my kindergarten and 1st-grade students can choose the engagement they need to calm themselves. There’s a relaxation area, with weighted pillows and bean bags. There’s a sensory bin. And there’s an active area with a trampoline, ball pit and tabletop toys. I also reward students for good behavior with choice time in the space. It helps them identify their feelings and regulate themselves independently, which supports their social skills.

—Kayla Valli, special education teacher at P224, a District 75 school in Queens

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