Observation of a child in the classroom

• Pseudonym: HA
• Age: 6
• Gender: Female

Provide background information about the child  

Has had teacher aide to assist with emotional dis-regulation previously, but this has been phased out.

Identify any specific learning needs in the classroom

• Easily overstimulated.
• Low emotional regulation, which can be triggered by being unable to answer a question.
• High physical contact communication style.

Explain how each of the learning needs is being met

If overstimulated by noise levels, HA is allowed to wear class headphones if this will help, otherwise she may sometimes work in another space that is quieter.

When HA has lost any ability to interact with others she will often remove herself from the situation. This is monitored by the teacher to ensure that she remains safe but otherwise she is allowed to find her balance and then rejoin class once without mention.

Identify and comment on the child’s interests  

A strong story teller, HA’s current focus is centered around her feelings. She loves being allowed time on the iPad, but otherwise hasn’t discussed hobbies or interests with me, preferring to focus on sharing feelings, stories that highlight the difficulties she feels she is facing, or just generally chatting about life in general. She doesn’t appear to have any strong interests, and she gets confused when talking about aspects of her life such as pets, sometimes the stories involve something from her own house, other times she’s sharing an event that happened elsewhere as though it happened at home.

Comment on the child’s friendships and relationships

Although children in the school are highly adaptable and fast to forgive, sometimes HA complains that no one will play with her, usually after she’s been lashing out at other children physically. When this happens other children will keep out of her way until she has calmed down, and they will remain cautious of her for a few hours. She doesn’t seem to have any special friends at school, or in the classroom, but will play with different groups of children during breaks.

Provide any further relevant information

Mum has a newborn, which seems to have increased HA’s need for attention – she is very affectionate and wants to give lots of cuddles to teachers, and on the flip side will lash out with kicking and hitting when she is anxious.