Benton Hall Academy Introduces Sensory Pathway for Kindergarten Students

Photo by Dave Warner – L-R, Kim Traut, Jennifer Reid, Mary Klippel, Wendy Rockwell, and Amy Bladek.

Benton Hall Academy in Little Falls is set to welcome its kindergarten students this fall with an innovative addition to its facilities: a sensory pathway designed to support emotional regulation and motor skill development.

The project, a collaborative effort between the school’s Parent-Teacher Committee (PTC) and dedicated staff, aims to create a supportive environment for young learners.

The idea for the sensory pathway originated several years ago, building on an existing alphabet-themed wall design installed by Principal Long.

The new pathway expands on this concept, incorporating elements to address sensory needs identified within the student body. “We knew that with a lot of sensory needs in our building, we felt very passionate about getting this in,” said Jennifer Reid, who is involved in the PTC side of the project. The pathway is designed to “calm anxious minds, energize tired bodies, and help refocus with every step.”

Funding for the sensory pathway was secured through a combination of PTC fundraising efforts and a grant, which provided 60 gallons of paint. This grant supported not only the pathway but also other school beautification projects, such as painting kindergarten classrooms.

The PTC collaborated closely with teachers to design a pathway that meets the developmental needs of students at a reasonable cost.

The sensory pathway serves multiple purposes. It offers opportunities for occupational therapy (OT) and physical therapy (PT), engaging students’ fine and gross motor skills. Located near the former pre-K area, the pathway is easily accessible for kindergarten classes and individual students who may need a quick break to reset during the school day.

“Some kids might need a break throughout the day, just a quick reset,” Kim Traut explained. “This provides opportunities where we could come out as a whole group class to do a sensory station or sensory time.”

Beyond the floor-based pathway, plans are underway to extend additional sensory elements to the walls, encouraging upper body strength through activities like pushing.

“It’s great for gross motor and fine motor, and we’re trying to provide a small space that kids who need to decompress can use,” Amy Bladek noted.

The project reflects Benton Hall Academy’s commitment to nurturing students as individuals, not just learners. “This school focuses on children being people, not just students,” Mary Klippel shared. “It’s about becoming people who can regulate how they feel, understand when they need a break, and become more wholesome.”

The school’s custodial team played a key role in preparing the floor and applying a durable wax coating to ensure the pathway lasts for years.

With the pathway nearly complete before the school year starts, the PTC and teachers are eager to see its positive impact on students.

The group is also planning further collaborations, including special initiatives for the upcoming 4K and kindergarten orientation, to keep building a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.

The sensory pathway at Benton Hall Academy highlights the strength of teamwork between parents, teachers, and staff, creating a space that supports the unique needs of young students and helps them thrive as they begin their school journey.