Sensory Stencils

thingiverse

Sensory Stencils were designed as an inclusive way to provide multisensory experiences to children who may need accommodations due to physical, sensory, or cognitive delays while learning the alphabet and reading. Created by educators with degrees in Human Development, Special Education, English, and Secondary Education, Sensory Stencils enhance learning experiences for all learners. They work well because they offer a visual and kinesthetic experience; use the textured side to reinforce the letter's shape with tactile feedback. Flip the letter over, and students are provided an errorless track to form the letter using their preferred writing tool. The three-dimensional design accommodates children who benefit from holding a letter and practicing proper orientation on a surface. Sensory Stencils can also be used in reading stations to build words concretely, unlike 2-D flashcards. Design Ideas These initial letters are our first draft for this project. We're refining them based on our design skills and how they're being used by teachers and students. More letters, including lower-case letters, will follow soon. We're also developing a prototype for non-symmetrical letters like "G", "F", and "J" with a stacking stencil design. Our current design theory is that letters should be about 20mm high with some texture on top, around 2mm deep. Dimensions vary by letter, averaging 120mm in length and 85mm in width, with a recessed track on the bottom, 10mm wide and 12mm deep. This allows for a pencil, marker, or chunky crayon to fit into the track.