The interoception system processes, interprets, and reacts to signals from within the body. For example, knowing when you are hungry or need to use the restroom. The interpretation of these signals can be complex for many children as the cues can be small and abstract in understanding. For example, you need to know that the rumbling in your stomach means you’re hungry, not that you’re sick or full. Interoception dysfunction can be seen throughout the school environment in many different ways. Here are a few:

A child with interoceptive craving may present as: Breathes heavily, Seems to enjoy the feelings of extreme temperatures or pain

A child with interoceptive underresponsivity may present as: Has frequent accidents or delays with potty training, Difficulty labeling or expressing emotions, Never appears sick or ill, Does not seem full/satisfied after eating

A child with interoceptive overresponsivity may present as: Eats frequently though our throughout the day, Gets upset easily at unknown triggers, Frequently sick, Fear of vomiting, Shows extreme emotions

 Interoception Classroom Strategies

Here are just some strategies to address interoception differences in the classroom environment. It is not an extensive list of all things you can try, but a good start of strategies that can be incorporated into already established routines!

·      Review the days weather for appropriate clothing indoors/outdoors

·      Check in with family for history of sickness if frequent

·      Practice deep breathing exercises as a class

·      Use a toileting schedule

·      Check for extreme temperatures of lunches

·      Monitor cuts and bruises after falls for further injury

·      Emotional regulation charts and systems as needed

·      Keep to classroom toileting schedule

Interoception School Strategies

Here are some strategies to address interoception differences in the school environment. Remember, for best chance at carryover and to make the activities functional for the child, incorporate sensory strategies into already established routines and activities.

·      Check for extreme temperatures of lunches

·      Monitor cuts and bruises after falls for further injury

·      Emotional regulation charts and systems as needed

·      Keep to classroom toileting schedule