6 Helpful Tips for Creating a Calming Sensory Space for Your Child

Support Network – Family Guide

As the rest of the country awakens to the fact that having sensory sensitivities means considering certain environments as a person with sensory needs, e.g., think sensory-friendly stadiums, stores, or cinemas, it is normal that parents would like to know more about how they can show the same consideration at home. Either your child has just been diagnosed, or you have already been adapting to their sensory requirements some time now, having a positive and relaxing environment at home could help a lot.

Here are the six usable and considerate tips that you may find helpful in creating a sensory-friendly environment, which will suit your child:

1. Every Child is Different

Sensory spaces are not made of one stock. Begin by noting the reaction of your child to new environments, what will leave your child relaxed and comfortable and what will cause discomfort?

Other children like movement and they might enjoy an exercise ball or some mini trampoline. Some like silent and intimate spaces, therefore it could be a cubby with cushions. When in your idle time or when they are playing, pay attention to their inclinations and base your decisions on this.

2. Sensory Spaces Don’t Need to Break the Bank

The choice of sensory-friendly products is overwhelming, which is easy to be overwhelmed with. However, it is not necessary to prepare a correct space at high costs. Actually, materials you use on a daily basis at regular shopping and even those at your craft box can be quite formidable.

The first tip is given by interior designer Carol Felder and she recommends beginning with a plan. Dwell on the functionality and that which your kid really needs and not on the appearance. A relaxing place does not have to be a well-decorated one, and it is alright.

“A room that works well for your child is always better than one that just looks good,” Felder explains.

3. Let Colours Work Their Magic

Colours affect mood and we are largely unaware of it, and in the case of children with sensory needs there may be an even greater effect.

The professionals suggest dark, subdued colors such as cream, sand, pale blues or soft greens. These sounds generate the feeling of peace and protection. It is advisable to circumvent aggressive, activating tones, such as red, or neon yellow, as they can be considered overwhelming. In case of indecision, just use natural colours, and they are mostly mesmerizing.

4. Smart Use of Electronics

An electronics is a two-blade knife in a sensory space. Although flashy screens and tangled cables might have a cacophonous effect, it is possible to pick and choose the right devices that will calm the mood.

Fine music, smooth tunes, or even moving projector are some of the things that can reduce anxiety. Lighting counts as well, lamps are preferable to fluorescent bulbs, although in case of no access to natural light, warm LED lamps will work great.

5. Break the Space into Zones

The redesign of a room may seem like a large job but it can be simplified by zoning. Find what your child needs the room most such as sleeping, playing, reading or relaxing and create small spaces for each.

One good rule-of-thumb, as employed by sensory space designers is an acronym:

• Sleep: some quiet place with low lights and fewer distractions
• Play: an area of toys or of movable apparatus
• Relax: relaxation sections to rest, listen to music or dream away
• Learn: area where attention activities such as puzzles or some readings are done

6. Sensory Tools That Might Help

Some items are particularly useful in creating peace and order as far as many families are concerned. You do not have to have all of them, here is a starter list to think about:

• Perform pressure or weighted blankets or plush items: It may relieve tension and contribute to good night sleep.
• Storage bins labelled: Assist in minimizing clutter and enabling your child to locate what he/she needs with relative ease.
• Making the walls: Tactile sensory walls: at home with soft textures such as fabric, Velcro or bubble wrap you could make your tactile boards. Pinterest is an excellent mind-wandering area.
• Crash pads or bean bags: They are ideal when you have jumpy children, or those who like to cuddle and snuggle, or those that need landing cushions.

Want some more ideas and to learn more about sensory tools? Autism Parenting Magazine provides a free guide too.

There is actually no need to create a perfect sensory-friendly environment that completely fits your child, it is rather necessary to create an environment that meets their needs, comfort, and personality. A small dose of creativity and diligence of care will help you turn your house into a serene place where they can be anchored, where they get to be heard, and where they can indeed be at ease.