Working with students with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) means embracing an endless adventure full of variety and surprise. Every day, you need the right tools and strategies that make the job easier, the experience richer, and, above all, meet students where they’re at. Here’s a peek into my SEND Teacher Toolkit—the must-haves that bring learning to life, support focus, and foster confidence and independence.
1. Timers and Visual Schedules: Beat the Clock and Stay on Track!
Let’s talk structure! Many students with SEND benefit from routines that help them know what’s coming next. My toolkit includes several visual timers and schedules.
• How to Use: Timers can support transitions, breaking down longer tasks or independent work. Visual schedules (like Velcro schedules or digital options) show students a “roadmap” of the day or activity sequence.
• Pro Tip: Try colour-coding activities or segments of time for different subjects. Students begin to understand “blue” means math, “green” means a brain break. Visual structure = less confusion, fewer meltdowns!
2. Fidget and Sensory Tools: When the Wiggles Won’t Stop!
We all know that some students just need to move! My toolkit includes a range of fidget and sensory tools to help students self-regulate, stay engaged, and keep focus on their tasks.
• How to Use: Hand out fidget toys like stress balls, chewable necklaces, or sensory putty when students need extra sensory input. Use sensory cushions on chairs, weighted blankets for calm during reading time, or even noise-cancelling headphones for students who struggle with sensory overload.
• Pro Tip: Keep a fidget toolkit that rotates items weekly—this keeps things fresh and minimises sensory fatigue. Plus, kids love “new” things!
3. Prompt Cards and Visual Aids: Because “Just Do It” Doesn’t Always Work
Some students need a bit of extra prompting, and verbal directions don’t always stick. My toolkit is loaded with visual prompt cards and social stories for common situations or behavioural reminders.
• How to Use: Use visual aids to remind students of behaviour expectations, steps for tasks, or calming strategies. Social stories can be personalised for individual students to work through transitions, changes, or specific struggles.
• Pro Tip: Laminate and bind frequently used prompt cards. Attach them to key rings or lanyards for easy access in the moment—quick retrieval is key!
4. Noise-Cancelling Headphones and Calm Spaces: For a Peaceful Mind
Every SEND teacher knows that sometimes students just need a break from sensory overload. Headphones and calm spaces are my go-to tools for helping students' recharge.
• How to Use: Offer headphones for loud, group activities or times when the classroom can get overwhelming. Set up a calm corner with soft seating, books, and dim lighting to help students decompress when they need it.
• Pro Tip: Use visuals like “The Calm Corner Is Open” to signal that students can take a break—making them feel in control and not called out when they need to step back.
5. Portable Whiteboards: Get Interactive!
Portable whiteboards are not only handy for individual work but also a great way to give quick, on-the-spot support and instructions. Perfect for students who need things written down in front of them to process information.
• How to Use: Use them for breaking down steps, quick explanations, or encouraging students to visually express answers or thoughts without the pressure of “final answers.”
• Pro Tip: Whiteboard markers in multiple colours bring emphasis to different steps, instructions, or key points—students will love the colour-coding, and it can help with organisation!
6. Task Analysis Sheets: Taking it Step-by-Step
For students who struggle with multi-step tasks, task analysis sheets are an absolute game-changer. Break down tasks into simple steps, and voilà—daunting tasks are suddenly manageable!
• How to Use: Break down a larger task into smaller, achievable steps with visuals or boxes students can check off. This works well for everything from independent reading to project work. NOW and NEXT or FIRST, THEN, NEXT and LAST can be really helpful and support independence.
• Pro Tip: Personalise them for different students by adding icons or visuals that resonate with each one’s interests (a superhero icon for each completed task, for example!).
7. Behavioural Reward Systems: High Fives All Around!
Nothing works quite as well as a little motivation. Whether it’s a sticker chart, point system, or token jar, having a reward system on hand can make all the difference.
• How to Use: Use visuals to track progress—like sticker charts, token jars, or fun digital reward systems. Celebrate small wins with high-fives, “cool-downs,” or snack breaks for positive reinforcement.
• Pro Tip: Keep a choice board of rewards (like five minutes of free reading, drawing time, or helping the teacher) to give students autonomy over their earned rewards!
8. Communication Tools: Make Your Voice Heard!
For non-verbal or minimally verbal students, communication tools can open doors to expression and interaction. I keep a selection of picture cards, communication boards, and even an iPad with AAC apps in my toolkit.
• How to Use: Allow students to communicate their needs, feelings, or responses using these tools. Communication boards can be personalised to each student’s preferences and typical routines.
• Pro Tip: Introduce one or two symbols at a time, especially for young learners. This helps them build confidence and prevents overwhelm.
9. Brain Break Cards: Reboot and Recharge
Sometimes, the best thing for a student’s focus is a short break. My toolkit includes brain break cards with movement, mindfulness, or creative prompts that give students a chance to refresh.
• How to Use: When students are getting restless, let them select a brain break card with activities like “30 seconds of jumping jacks,” “colour for 5 minutes,” or “take a walk to the door and back.”
• Pro Tip: Give students a sense of control by allowing them to choose when they need a break—but set boundaries on when/how often. Brain breaks are most effective when used consistently and predictably!
10. A Sense of Humour and Lots of Patience: The Essentials
Last but definitely not least—every SEND teacher needs an endless supply of humour and patience. Laugh off the small mishaps, celebrate the victories (big and small!), and remember that every day is another step forward, even if it doesn’t feel like it.
• Pro Tip: When things get tough, remember that you’re making a huge difference—each breakthrough, each smile, and each small step means so much.
These toolkit essentials make life in a classroom run just a little smoother, helping us build meaningful connections, encourage growth, and create a learning space where every child feels empowered. What’s in your SEND toolkit? Let’s share our favourite finds and tips below!
Ian Edwards
Founder, iSEND Consultancy
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