Did you always think of making a sensory room at home? But did not know how to? In this article, we will learn more! Sensory rooms are great for children with sensory needs. Further, they are an ideal place for your child to feel calm and relaxed. If you are wondering what is a sensory room, read on.
What Is A Sensory Room?
A sensory room is a space in your house where your child can go to relax and self-regulate. Further, sensory spaces help kids to work on self-regulating their behaviour.
It does not have to be an entire room in your house. A small space in the corner will do. Furthermore, sensory rooms are seen in therapy settings and clinics. They are designed with lights, toys and tools for children to explore their sensory experiences in a safe space. Many clinics use this space to give breaks to children during therapy. Sensory rooms help in calming kids during meltdowns.
Who Can Use A Sensory Room?
Sensory rooms or spaces are for all. So, both adults and children can use it. However, this article is about sensory rooms for kids.
While it is ideal for kids of all ages, it is best suited for the following kids who are overactive, hyperactive, restless, stressed, kids with sleep difficulties, kids who don’t sit to do a task for a long time, and kids who have a diagnosis of
What Should A Sensory Room Include?
A sensory room is sensory-friendly. In other words, it has objects that do not overstimulate a child.
The room/space is designed so that the child feels safe and comfortable.
The objects in the space give the child sensory inputs needed to regulate and de-stress.
When a child has a meltdown, there could be a trigger. Once the trigger is eliminated, the child feels calmer. So, it is important to analyse your child’s triggers in advance.
Sensory spaces are only to help a child feel safe and calm. Additionally, every room is designed keeping in mind the needs of the child. If you are a parent of a child seeking therapy, talk to your occupational therapist for input regarding your child’s sensory needs.
What Are The Benefits Of A Sensory Room?
Sensory rooms have been recommended for years by Occupational therapists. Sensory rooms that are designed to suit a child, the success rate is higher with no risks.
For example, a sensory room can calm an overstimulated child or awaken an under-stimulated child’s nervous system. Let me share a few more benefits:
- Helps a child feel safe
- Helps in self-regulation and calming
- Provides sensory input
- Promotes balance and coordination of senses
- Helps in fine and gross motor skills
- Reduces behaviour meltdowns
- Reduces stress and improves mood
- Promotes speech-language development
- Builds caregiver rapport
- Increases sensory exploration and tolerance
- Promotes overall development
- Augments therapy progress
- Improves academic progress
Overall, the value of building a sensory room is immeasurable.
How To Make A Sensory Room At Home?
Creating an entire big sensory room at home may not be feasible. Hence, a small space at home is ideal. First, pick a space that is safe. For example, a space with no sharp corners, windows, wires or anything that will harm our child. Overall, the space should be free from objects that can cause an injury.
Next, work on the lighting in the space. Use a soft yellow light or Christmas lights or a lamp. A light colour wall paint is ideal for this space. Some items you can include in the space are:
- Bean bag chair
- Cushion pillows or rugs
- Sensory swing
- Weighted blankets or throws
- Trampoline or sensory steppers
- Spin disc
- Balance beam
- Plastic scooter board
- Exercise ball
- Tunnel
- Books to read
- Stuffed animals or fidget toys
- Make a sensory wall with different colours/ patterns
- Create a calming down corner with fibre-optic light curtains
Some extra tips for making a sensory room at home:
If you are on a budget and wondering how to source these tools. We have some extra tips for you. So, read on:
- Use and repurpose things at home
- Check a thrift store for inexpensive sensory items
- Make your own sensory toys and tools with items at home
- Shop during sales
- Get access to used sensory items from other people
- Purchase items that can serve multiple sensory needs
- Use printable or digital sensory calming down resources
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