Why Does Izzy Cover Her Ears? Dealing with Sensory Overload by by Jennifer Veenendall

Meet Izzy, a feisty first grader, whose behavior is often misunderstood as she tries to cope with sensory overload in her new surroundings. This brightly illustrated book creates an environment that is accepting of students with sensory modulation difficulties, including many on the autism spectrum. It s a great resource for occupational therapists, teachers, and parents to share with children. Resources for adults at the end of the book include definitions of sensory processing and sensory modulation disorder, suggested discussion questions and lists of related books and web sites. Izzy is in first grade and does not like it. The other children are too loud. Some of the their voices are earsplitting. She has spent most of the first month crying and hiding under the table. She has thrown tantrums because of the noise and was sent to the principal's office. However, she likes being there because it is quiet and she can relax. Izzy has difficulty because she has a sensory processing disorder. Not only do loud noises bother her, but other disruptions like people bumping into her can cause problems. This educational book explains, through Izzy's story, how a child with this disorder functions in the classroom. Her brain messes up signals about things that are happening to her and relays sounds louder than they really are. As a result, she needs to learn how to adjust in school. An occupational therapist can help her feel calmer and aid her in listening to her body. The teacher can assist the child by not overstimulating her with room decorations, sit the child with quieter children, and use calmer lighting. Children with sensory disorders may also use a weighted vest or blanket, squishy balls, and other tools to help them feel more relaxed. Teachers and parents who work with these children would benefit from reading this informative book. Included in the back of the book are resources that parents and teachers can use to find out more about sensory disorders. Pages: 39 Age range: 4 - 8 Years