You may have heard the term “sensory room” mentioned but do you know exactly what it means? As awareness of sensory needs increases, parents, therapists and institutions are working to create sensory-friendly spaces to make anyone and everyone feel welcome. We’ve gathered the essential information from our Sensory Room Design Team, OTs and educators to bring you this guide to understanding sensory rooms.
What does "sensory-friendly" mean?
“Sensory-friendly” often refers to an environment in which kids are given the sensory input they need to self-regulate and decompress; alternatively, it’s an environment that lacks overstimulating sensory input. This could refer to a classroom, airport, shopping mall or home environment. It can even refer to specific objects– for example, things that are made of certain types of fabric or feature less harsh lighting. Since everyone’s needs are different, there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
Whether a child has a diagnosed sensory processing disorder or not, it’s important to learn to recognize their triggers. Once you understand their sensory triggers, you can help them avoid sensory overload and a subsequent sensory meltdown. During a meltdown, kids are in fight, flight or freeze mode. When the trigger is removed and/or calming sensory input is provided, the nervous system can recover and regulate. Some children might not be able to recognize triggers and sensory needs on their own. Parents and teachers can give guidance, in a process known as “co-regulation.” Once the child is able to identify their own needs, they are ready to self-regulate.
How do sensory rooms help?
Sensory rooms are focused on providing the best sensory input for a child’s specific needs. By using a variety of therapeutic equipment, kids learn to self-regulate their behaviors and ultimately improve their focus. When the sensory system is in a state of equilibrium, children are able to pay attention to their emotions. They have the opportunity to develop emotional awareness and social skills that will increase their overall well-being throughout life. Spending time in a dedicated sensory safe space reduces kids’ worry about potential triggers.
In order to make the sensory room most effective, it’s important that it be incorporated into a child’s regular routine. Spending time in the space should not be a reward or punishment, rather part of their sensory diet. Getting the right mix of sensory input is just as necessary as eating the proper variety of nutrients to be as healthy as possible.
Types of sensory rooms
Sensory rooms can be categorized as active, calming or hybrid spaces. Because everyone has unique needs, there is no “best” option. You need to consider who will be using the sensory room, how old they are, what their sensory preferences are and how much space you have available. Check out our Sensory Room Planning Checklist for more points to consider. Once you’ve assessed your space and set goals based on the child’s needs, you can determine what type of sensory room to create.
Active rooms are great for sensory-seekers, or kids who are under-aroused and crave more stimulation. Movement activities that offer a mix of proprioceptive and vestibular input help regulate the nervous system and organize the body. Through joint compression, swinging, obstacle courses and climbing activities, kids are able to improve their motor planning skills, body awareness and help calm their body down so that they are ready to focus and learn.
Action Room
Calming Room
Calming rooms are geared towards sensory-avoiders, or kids who are easily over-stimulated and need a break from sensory stimulation. Soothing music and fiber-optic lighting create a relaxing space for decompression. This type of lighting is also known as “autism-friendly lighting,” because kids with autism often have a concurrent sensory processing disorder that manifests in their visual system. Deep pressure input, such as that from weighted products, causes the muscles to send calming signals to the brain so that kids can reorganize their thoughts and improve their focus. Gentle, rhythmic swinging like on a Raindrop Swing is also great for relaxation.
Hybrid sensory rooms provide a mix of both active and calming input. These are great when the room is for kids with a range of sensory needs. Often children will start out in the active portions of the room and then spend some time in the calm sections to help them transition back out of the sensory space.
Hybrid Room
How can you create a sensory space at home?
Creating an entire sensory room is not always feasible in the home due to space limitations. Instead, you can opt for a smaller sensory area, something that can be customized to your kids’ needs as well as to your space constraints. This might look like an activity area to get out extra energy between school and homework, or you may put together a calming corner to soothe your kids before bed. Regardless of how much space you can dedicate to a sensory room, there are always positive benefits. Put out a Bounce Board for active stimulation; a bean bag chair with a weighted blanket is the perfect place to sit and relax. You may need to experiment with different sensory tools and arrangements to see what works best for your child.
Creating a sensory room can be overwhelming. There are numerous products to choose from and individual needs to consider, as well as budget and space constraints to keep in mind. Our expert team of therapists and designers collaborate with you to achieve your goals. We develop detailed illustrations and guide you on safe use, maintenance, training and assessment.
Connect with our team to start designing your sensory room today.
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