How to Build an Inclusive Classroom (before school starts!)

Setting the foundation for a successful school year begins before students walk through the classroom doors on the first day of school. As pre-planning time approaches (or has already started in some parts of the U.S.), it’s important to think of ways to create an inclusive classroom environment that supports students of all neurotypes. Here are six quick ways to make a classroom more inclusive for autistic students and students with ADHD.

1. Sensory Space

Designate a corner or other area in the classroom as a sensory space. This is a place where students can go when they feel overwhelmed or overstimulated. Include items like concert earplugs (low-cost alternative to noise-canceling headphones), fidget toys and kinetic sand. These items cater to different sensory needs while providing students with tools to self-regulate.

2. Flexible Seating

Bean bags, cushioned seats, and standing desks can help students feel more comfortable in the classroom. Flexible seating also gives students room to move around without distracting classmates. For some students with ADHD, the ability to move can help them focus and stay engaged, whereas traditional desks can have the opposite effect.

3. Visual Schedules

Unpredictability can be a source of anxiety for neurodivergent students. Visual schedules offer a structured view of the day’s activities, which helps students understand what to expect. Visual schedules and similar visual aids can be used to highlight routines, transitions, and other activities in a typical school day.

4. Coping Strategies Posters

A coping strategies poster, like this printable one, can help students learn how to self-regulate and manage their emotions effectively. Posters with techniques such as deep breathing, squeezing a stress ball, or taking a sensory break give students options to choose from, so they can do what works best for them. Review the coping strategies poster at the beginning of the school year, so students can reference it as needed.

5. Social and emotional learning activities (SEL)

SEL activities can help students build valuable social and emotional skills that can positively impact their academic performance, behavior, and overall well-being. “All About Me” activities and team building exercises can help students connect with each other and their teachers. SEL activities, such as Social Cipher’s online game Ava, can also help students strengthen their decision-making and self-advocacy skills, both of which are incredibly important for students in special education or inclusion classrooms.

6. Posters and Bulletin Boards that Promote Diversity and Inclusion

Posters and bulletin boards add personality and fun to classrooms. However, it’s important to ensure that the posters reflect the diversity that exists in the real world.  Decorate the classroom with posters that celebrate diversity and inclusion. Choose posters that highlight different cultures, abilities, and identities to show students that their backgrounds are accepted, respected, and valued.

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These are just a few of the many ways to create an inclusive classroom environment. Although these strategies are typically used to set the foundation for a successful school year, it’s never too late to implement them. No matter the time of year, students will appreciate and benefit from your commitment fostering a more inclusive space for everyone.

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