Tagtiv8 Benefits for Neurodiverse Children

by Bryn Llewellyn

“I used to think I was rubbish at maths, but now I know I’m not.” 

The words from Ethan after a 40 minute Tagtiv8 session at a school in Leicester, complemented by a huge grin on his face. We have many such comments from children - and teachers:

  • “Tagtiv8 removes the fear of certain subjects.”

  • “I never knew HE could do THAT! He’s never written that knowledge in his book or put his hand up in class.”

The anecdotes are great - even more so when they are backed up by research.

What are the Benefits?

Pioneering teachers and SENDCOs realise that our approaches can be highly beneficial for SEND children in several ways:

1. Multi-sensory Learning

SEND children often benefit from a multi-sensory approach to learning. Tagtiv8 combines movement with numeracy and literacy, reinforcing concepts through physical activity, which can improve retention and engagement.

2. Increased Engagement & Focus

Many children with SEND struggle with traditional, static learning environments. Tagtiv8 provides an interactive, game-based method that keeps children engaged and helps sustain attention.

3. Supports Motor Skills Development

The active nature of Tagtiv8 can help children with dyspraxia or other motor coordination challenges by promoting balance, coordination, and gross motor skills through movement-based activities.

4. Encourages Social Interaction & Communication

Activities often involve teamwork, which helps SEND children develop social skills, turn-taking, and communication in a low-pressure, inclusive environment.

5. Boosts Confidence & Self-Esteem

Traditional classroom settings can sometimes be frustrating for SEND children. The active learning format of Tagtiv8 provides an alternative way to demonstrate understanding, helping to build confidence and a sense of achievement.

6. Reduces Anxiety & Supports Well-being

Physical movement has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. For children with SEND who may experience heightened anxiety levels, engaging in active learning can create a more relaxed and enjoyable learning experience.

7. Flexible & Adaptable Approach

Tagtiv8 activities can be tailored to individual needs, allowing teachers to modify tasks based on ability levels, sensory needs, or specific learning goals.

How can teachers adapt Tagtiv8 sessions for SEND?

1. For Children with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

✅ Activity: Word or Number Chase

  • Spread word cards (for literacy) or number cards (for numeracy) around an open space.

  • Call out a word or number, and the child has to run, jump, or hop to find the correct one.

🔹 Benefit: Helps channel energy positively while reinforcing learning through movement.

✅ Adaptation:

  • Use visual or auditory cues to help focus attention.

  • Allow breaks and set clear, short instructions to maintain engagement.

2. For Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

✅ Activity: Match & Sort Relay

  • Lay out different phonics sounds, words, or numbers.

  • The child moves to find a matching pair (e.g., ‘c’ + ‘at’ to form ‘cat’).

🔹 Benefit: Encourages structure, routine, and pattern recognition.

✅ Adaptation:

  • Use visual supports (like symbols or pictures) to enhance understanding.

  • Reduce sensory overload by allowing a quiet space nearby if needed.

3. For Children with Dyspraxia (DCD - Developmental Coordination Disorder)

✅ Activity: Target Throw & Learn

  • Place number or word cards in hoops or cones.

  • The child throws a beanbag onto a target and then collects the corresponding card to complete a sum or sentence.

🔹 Benefit: Improves motor coordination and provides an alternative way to engage with literacy or numeracy.

✅ Adaptation:

  • Allow extra time for movements.

  • Use larger, easier-to-handle materials to reduce frustration.

4. For Children with Dyslexia

✅ Activity: Phonics Trail

  • Spread out phonics cards across an area.

  • The child moves from card to card, blending sounds as they go to form words.

🔹 Benefit: Reinforces phonics in an engaging, non-traditional way.

✅ Adaptation:

  • Use colour coding to help differentiate sounds.

  • Incorporate verbal reinforcement to support memory.

Moving Forwards

If you would like to find out more about how Tagtiv8 can help children with SEND, let's talk:

Email hello@tagtiv8.com

Call +44 7506 523354

 

News & Events

In other news...