How To Create A Sensory Room In 2023

Creating the perfect sensory space in 2023

Sensory processing issues can make everyday experiences overwhelming and challenging for individuals with conditions like autism, ADHD, and other developmental or neurological disorders. That’s why creating a safe and effective sensory space can be so beneficial. A sensory space is a specially designed environment that provides sensory stimulation and support, tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences. At our company, we specialize in creating sensory rooms and providing sensory equipment to help individuals with sensory processing issues thrive. In this blog post, we’ll share some tips and tools for creating a safe sensory space, and highlight our services of sensory room installation and sensory equipment in the UK.

Tips for Creating a Safe Sensory Space

When designing a sensory space, there are several factors to consider to ensure it’s safe and effective for the individual using it. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Choose appropriate colors and lighting: Use calming colors like blue, green, or purple, and avoid bright or fluorescent lighting that can be overstimulating. Consider adding dimmer switches or blackout curtains to adjust the lighting as needed.
• Provide comfortable and supportive furniture: Choose soft and cushioned seating, such as beanbags, floor pillows, or rocking chairs, that can provide a sense of comfort and security. Avoid furniture with sharp edges or hard surfaces that can pose a safety risk.
• Minimize noise and distractions: Use soundproofing materials or white noise machines to reduce external noises, and minimize visual distractions like clutter or bright patterns. Consider providing noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs for the individual to use as needed.
• Create a visual schedule or routine: Use visual supports like picture schedules or checklists to help the individual understand what activities will happen in the sensory space, and in what order. This can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of predictability.
• Ensure safety and hygiene: Use non-toxic and easy-to-clean materials, and secure equipment like swings or balance boards properly to prevent accidents. Provide supervision and support as needed, and make sure the sensory space is cleaned and sanitized regularly to maintain hygiene.

Benefits of Sensory Rooms and Equipment

Sensory rooms and equipment can offer many benefits for individuals with sensory processing issues, including:

• Reducing anxiety and stress: By providing a safe and calming environment, sensory spaces can help individuals feel more relaxed and less anxious.
• Improving communication and social skills: By incorporating social activities like group play or social stories, sensory spaces can help individuals develop and practice their communication and social skills.
• Enhancing motor skills and coordination: By incorporating movement-based activities like swings or balance boards, sensory spaces can help individuals develop their gross motor skills and coordination.
• Promoting relaxation and well-being: By incorporating calming sensory activities like aromatherapy, massage, or meditation, sensory spaces can help individuals feel more relaxed and improve their overall well-being.

Some examples of different types of sensory equipment include:

• Swings: Swings can provide a calming, rhythmic motion that can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. There are many different types of swings, such as platform swings, hammock swings, or cocoon swings, that can provide different types of sensory input.
• Balls: Balls of various sizes and textures can be used for a variety of activities, such as bouncing, rolling, or squeezing. They can provide tactile and proprioceptive input, and help improve motor skills and coordination.
• Mats: Mats of various textures and densities can be used for activities like jumping, crawling, or rolling. They can provide deep pressure input and help regulate the sensory system.
• Tactile surfaces, such as textured walls, tactile tiles, or sand tables, can provide a variety of tactile experiences and help individuals explore different textures and sensations.
• Bubble tubes: Bubble tubes are tall, cylindrical tubes filled with water and illuminated with changing colors and bubbles. They can provide visual stimulation and a calming effect, and are often used in sensory rooms as a centerpiece.
• Fibre optic lights: Fiber optic lights are strands of thin, flexible fibers that light up in different colours and patterns. They can provide visual stimulation and a calming effect, and are often used as a ceiling or wall decoration.

At our company, we offer a wide range of sensory equipment for purchase, tactile surfaces, bubble tubes, fibre optic lights, and more. Our experienced team can also provide consultation and installation services for sensory rooms, ensuring that the space is tailored to the individual’s needs and preferences.

Conclusion: Creating a safe sensory space can provide immense benefits for individuals with sensory processing issues, and sensory rooms and equipment can be valuable tools for achieving this goal. By following the tips and recommendations in this post, and by utilizing the services of our company for sensory room installation and sensory equipment in the UK, you can create a safe and effective sensory space that promotes well-being and enhances the quality of life for individuals with sensory processing issues.