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Sensory Considerations

Written by on . Posted in Advice
Sensory Considerations

My latest post looks at Sensory Considerations, I hope you find it interesting.

When creating your sensory environment it is important to consider an individual’s needs and sensitivities. Individuals will actively seek sensations that they find most useful at a particular point in time and then they will organise them in a way that allows them to achieve certain goals. For this reason we need to look at what senses individuals are seeking at particular points in the day and ask why/provide appropriate input. We also need to be aware of sensations that students may be avoiding and ask why/provide appropriate input.

Sensory Difficulties:

  • What adjustments could be made to reduce ‘sensory overload’ around the school building?
  • What adjustments could be made to reduce ‘sensory overload’ during the school day?
  • Can a quiet space be provided for pupils to go to calm down?
  • What equipment could you use to engage a pupil who is either under or over stimulated?
  • Décor and wall displays
    • Calming colours
    • Reduce distractions
  • Seating plans
    • Not too hot
    • Not too noisy
    • Have enough space around them
    • Away from door
    • Not too bright if they are sensitive to light
  • Quiet space
    • Cubby or quiet space for the pupil to use for seat work when needed
    • Provides a quiet, non-visually stimulating area to allow better concentration
    • Consider a bean bag chair to support calming strategies
  • Ear plugs/Headphones
    • Possibly use with pupils who are extremely sensitive to noise
  • To avoid crowds let pupils arrive slightly before or slightly after other pupils when transitioning between classes/activities
  • Use a quiet room or a multi-sensory room for teaching, learning and calming
  • Everyone needs breaks. Build breaks into the day for pupils who have difficulty sitting, listening, or simply require time away from stimulation

Other ideas to consider

  • Sufficient space to work in
  • Gangways/ramps for easier access in/out of rooms/building
  • Wide range of resources to use when working with hypo/hyper sensitive pupils for stimulating or lowering arousal levels
  • Soft cushions to sit on for tactile and proprioceptive input and/or weighted vest while seated to help calm and organise the body
  • Consider light sensitivities and reducing light
  • Consider using white noise as needed

Experia are here to assist you!

We offer a FREE 3D Room Design Service. If you need assistance with designing a sensory space just get in touch. With the help from our expert sensory advisor's we can help you create the perfect environment for your particular needs.

Call on 0800 612 6077 or send an email to [email protected]

Jessica Brown OT