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Wesley: A Bright, Sensitive First Grader Navigating a New School Environment

by Laura Petix
Apr 28, 2025
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Meet Wesley

Wesley is a curious, highly intelligent first grader who recently transitioned to a Waldorf school, which was perfect because he thrives in environments rich with movement, creativity, and hands-on learning. Academically, Wesley is ahead of his peers, quickly grasping new concepts and engaging deeply in subjects that spark his interest. He forms strong bonds with adults and is well-liked by his teachers, who recognize his enthusiasm and emotional depth. He’s also beginning to build peer friendships and deeply values them.

 

Despite his many strengths, Wesley was facing some challenges with maintaining regulation at school, which prompted his parents to reach out to me for a coaching call. Specifically, his teachers noted behaviors such as:

👉🏼Yelling

👉🏼Constantly moving around the classroom

👉🏼Pinching and pushing peers

👉🏼Impulsively touching peers during transitions or while waiting in line

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The Sensory Code

Learn how to decode behavior using a nervous system lens and how to incorporate sensory strategies into your daily life by these real life case study examples.
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