School forbids clapping, allows "silent cheering," face pulling, and air punching

In recognition of students who are sensitive to noise, a Sydney primary school has banned clapping and cheering at school events. Instead of clapping and cheering, students will be prompted by teachers when it is appropriate for silent cheering, pulling excited faces, and punching the air.

From News.com.au

In its July 18 newsletter, the Elanora school has published an item under the headline Did you know that our school has adopted silent cheers at assemblys (sic).

If youve been to a school assembly recently, you may have noticed our students doing silent cheers, the item reads.

Instead of clapping, the students are free to punch the air, pull excited faces and wriggle about on the spot.

The practice has been adopted to respect members of our school community who are sensitive to noise.

When you attend an assembly, teachers will prompt the audience to conduct a silent cheer if it is needed.

Teachers have also found the silent cheers to be a great way to expend childrens energy and reduce fidgeting.