BUSS

BUSS in our school!

Since February last year, St Joseph’s welcomed UK-based OT Sarah Lloyd and her team for several visits to our school to deliver a project which saw all of our Junior Infant pupils accessing a project which supported the development of their sensory systems. Sarah is author of the BUSS Model (Building Underdeveloped Sensory Systems) among other publications. Tullamore Credit Union partnered with us through their Community Support Fund to generously fund the first year of this project.

What happens in school?
Growing bodies to grow brains…
We know that school is hard work – especially at the start when children might be more used to playing, running or climbing. Being able to sit and listen, or sit and learn to write, takes lots of different skills.

At St. Joseph’s, we know that we need to support children’s physical development so that their bodies and brains are ready for these challenges. There’s lots of work in Junior Infants to build core strength (head, neck, shoulders and trunk) so that children can sit still on the carpet or at desks without being too wriggly or squirmy. Don’t be surprised if your child says they’ve done lots of lying on their tummies or playing floor-based games in the hall. They’re all part of this!

We also play lots of games to support hand development so that children can get good at things like handwriting and using cutlery. There are games we play to help children make sense of the world around them, as well as playing games to help with language development.

Why it’s a good idea?
The development of sensory systems has a lasting impact on a child’s life. These interventions are life-changing for children as they are enabled to access the curriculum and participate fully in school life. Their improved sensorimotor skills lead to enhanced academic performance, increased focus and attention and improved social interactions and behaviours.

This is a big-picture project which will have a life-long positive impact on our students and society.