While sensory-friendly events are a wonderful resource, creating a sensory sensitive space at home is equally important, given this is where our children spend most of their time.
Here are 10 practical tips to get you started:
- Soften Lighting: Use natural lights, or soft dimmable lamps or string lights instead of harsh overhead fluorescent bulbs (which can flicker or buzz). Blackout curtains can help manage light sensitivity.
- Minimise Visual Clutter: Too many items or bright colours in one room can be overwhelming. Keep it organised by using storage bins for toys and other items which can promote more predictability and calmness.
- Dampen Noise: Add rugs or curtains to absorb sound. White noise machines can also create a calming auditory environment. Offer noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs to block out background noise.
- Create a Calming Corner: Designate a quiet area or a cozy nook with soft pillows, a tent, bean bags, blankets and calming sensory toys (e.g., fidget spinners, pop its, or bubbles), where kids can retreat to when they feel overwhelmed.
- Provide Movement Opportunities: Children may benefit from activities that allow movement and release of energy (e.g., obstacle courses made with pillows and blankets). Offer items like a rocking chair, yoga ball or peanut ball to incorporate a safe space for jumping, crashing or stretching to help regulate sensory needs.
- Use Weighted Tools: Deep pressure squeezes and touch can be calming for children. This can look like offering weighted lap toys, compression singlets or full body squeezes, squeezes on legs and arms and creating a burrito blanket roll (rolling the child in a blanket and rolling them out again).
- Soothing Scents: Certain scents like lavender or chamomile can have a calming effect. Choose unscented products for cleaning and personal care as strong smells could impact children’s regulation.
- Incorporate Textured Options: Some children may explore different textures that support their sensory seeking nature and regulate them. Include textured rugs or stepping stones paired with non-slip mats to provide tactile feedback.
- Keep it Predictable: Routine is comforting, stick to predictable routines. Use visual schedules to help your child know what to expect, reducing anxiety and making transitions smoother.
- Create Choice & Control: Empower your child to choose what they want to engage in to help them regulate themselves, offer them control by giving them choices to choose from. This can build independence and promote predictability.
