How to Use Sensory Corners in the Classroom Without Disrupting Other Students
4 min read
Classroom sensory corners are a fantastic way to support students who need a little extra help with focus and self-regulation. They provide a safe space for children to take a break and return when they are ready to learn. (Read this article to learn more about the benefits of classroom corners.) However, if not properly managed these calming corners can become a potential distraction in the classroom. Here are some tips to ensure your sensory corner serves its purpose without disrupting the rest of the class.
1. Involve the Whole Class
The sensory corner is an opportunity to teach inclusion by involving the entire class in learning about it. Discuss the ways in which everyone works to refocus or calm themselves down, making sure to emphasize that some might need more support than others. Let your students share examples of what helps them.
Framing the sensory corner as a supportive tool for the whole class’s benefit reduces its draw as something inherently special. Not only will this foster greater inclusivity in your classroom, but it will reduce the risk of distractions caused by the sensory corner.
2. Choose the Right Tools for Self-Regulation
Set your corner up for success by equipping it with calming sensory tools. Flexible seating options provide students with a comfortable place to relax. Weighted lap pads provide proprioceptive input, which is often very soothing for children. Help students filter out overwhelming stimuli with noise reduction headphones and an assortment of fidgets to choose from.
Be sure to choose tools that students can use on their own, do not make noise and are easily put away. For example, gel tiles provide visual input and serve a dual purpose as delineating the sensory corner area. Body socks are versatile tools for students to get proprioceptive input and a quick movement break, and they store compactly. Thoughtfully outfitting your sensory corner ensures that it can remain a calming, not chaotic, environment.
Lap Pads
Noise Reduction Headphones
3. Train Students to Use the Sensory Tools
It is one thing to understand the purpose of the sensory corner, and another to know how to utilize it effectively. Depending on what works best for your students, you can have a demonstration for the entire class or bring small groups of students into the space to learn. Teaching the students about the various sensory tools and how to use them allows the students to recognize which tools they should use when stressed or overwhelmed.
Practice other self-regulation techniques, like mindfulness, during a calm time. This allows children to feel comfortable using the skills when emotions are running high. Role playing may be helpful for some students. Act out different scenarios to practice recognizing when they might need a break and how to rejoin the class afterwards. Clear, consistent practice will enable children to use the sensory corner independently.
Transformer Sensory Sack™
SensaSoft™ Compression Canoe
4. Set Expectations and Create a System
In order to keep the sensory corner productive, you need to establish expectations with your students. Involve the kids in making a list of specific guidelines for the space. If necessary, clearly define times when the sensory corner is off-limits. Implement a system like a sign-in sheet or entry pass, and use visual timers to help children keep track of how long they’ve been in the corner. These encourage students to keep the sensory corner a calm and orderly space. Visual reminders of the rules can also reinforce appropriate, independent usage.
Time Timer
5. Strategic Placement
Be thoughtful about where you set up your sensory corner. Choose a spot that is slightly removed from the main classroom area, but still within your line of sight. This ensures that the space is accessible and less overwhelming for those who need it. You can utilize bookshelves to create a cozy, semi-private space without completely hiding the child in the corner.
6. Monitor and Adjust
Regular check-ins with students can help you ensure that the sensory corner is meeting their needs. Monitor how they use the space and if it seems to be having a positive impact on their focus and attention. Make small tweaks to the setup as needed so that the space continues to provide children with the self-regulation boost they need.
With a combination of strategic placement, a clear set of rules and the right sensory tools, you can create a classroom sensory corner that supports self-regulation without distracting other students. Get students involved and empower them to independently use the sensory strategies they need to calm and refocus. Not sure where to start? Create a custom classroom corner with our team.
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