Every student has unique sensory needs. When those needs are met, it’s easier for kids to get through the school day and thrive in their learning environment. A sensory room stimulates both body and mind, building a solid foundation for learning. Movement and sensory input helps kids feel more centered and ready to learn. In conjunction with other tools, sensory rooms play a large role in developing executive functioning skills and self-regulation skills.

Yes! Research shows that after a sensory room visit, students are over 50% more engaged in classroom activities. Studies have demonstrated that including sensory-based movement activities increases alertness and produces a calm state, supporting students’ ability to attend and learn (Spence, 2015). Studies also show that a child’s brain actually undergoes development in the neural connections after engaging in sensory experiences (Kolb & Gibb, 2011).

Before designing your sensory room, consider the following components:

• The location and size of your space
• The number of students the room can safely accommodate at once
• The ages and abilities of the students who will use the room
• The various goals you want to address
• The staffing you have available to supervise and maintain the room

Yes. Since the benefits of sensory rooms are widely known, there are multiple grant opportunities available. Sensory rooms can support students of many abilities, including those with autism, developmental delays, ADHD and other special needs. Schools can use sensory rooms to promote social-emotional wellness, provide behavioral support and develop self-regulation skills. Check out our grant support materials here.