The sensory rooms can make a big difference in a child's development. Unfortunately, many families with loved ones who could benefit from a dedicated sensory room often don't feel they have the space or budget to create one.
However, Creating an effective sensory space doesn't have to be expensive or require an entire room in your house. Just take a look at the tips below we've compiled to help you build a sensory area that fits your budget.
What are the benefits of a sensory room?
- help a child to feel safe
- engage the senses and provide sensory information (sensory diet)
- improve balance and coordination
- work on fine and gross motor skills
- support andtherapeutic treatment
- better manage challenging behaviors
- encourage exploration
- increase the sensory experiences and tolerance
- Building trust
- greater opportunities for vocabulary and communication
- improved relationship with the caregiver
- restore mood
- reduces stress
If you're concerned about not having enough space to create a sensory space, we tell you it's possible no matter how small your classroom or home is.
If you don't have space to dedicate to a sensory area:
- make a sensory board and store it under a sofa, under a bed or behind furniture to pull it out when needed.
- create a sensory bin filled with fidgets and calming tools.
If you have limited space to dedicate to a sensory area:
- create a sensory corner in your classroom, playroom, children's room, basement or living room.
- Use a closet or storage room as a sensory room.
- convert a shed or garage area.
If cost is more your concern, here are some great money-saving tips.
Although sensory rooms can cost thousands if all the equipment is purchased, for organizations with the funds, this is a wonderful option. For the rest of us, there are ways to create a sensory room on a budget.
Low-cost solutions, high-quality experiences.
Now that you have an idea of the size of the space and some ideas for sensory items, It's time for the hard part: figuring out how to make it work on your limited budget. Before you take a hammer to your piggy bank, take some time to look at your wish list and think about alternatives:
- A second-hand portable CD or cheap MP3 player And some portable speakers can work as well as a new stereo. Aging computers that have become too slow, current apps can also be great for music, and some desktop media players feature soothing visualizations that react to whatever track is playing.
- The pool of balls These are popular sensory items, but they can be very expensive. An inflatable pool with high walls can work well and won't cost much to replace if it gets damaged.
- While some sensory rooms have swings and trampolines To promote vestibular stimulation, a more cost-effective solution might be a rocking chair or a large pilates ball .
- Don't be afraid to do a little DIY with some items. Build your own boards or blocks sensory , sensory table or sand and water tubes can be a fun weekend project and will save you a good amount of money. Hanging strands of old beads or textured ribbons is also a great idea!
- Use Christmas lights Twinkle lights, LED net lights, or lava lamps can add an inexpensive glow to your sensory area. A repurposed electric color wheel, typically used for old aluminum Christmas trees, can also add a soothing color change to the room.
- If you choose share a bit of another room, consider buying an inexpensive solid-colored fabric and hanging it as a curtain around the area. This will give the child some privacy and make him feel like he's his space could do wonders for your confidence.
Also, don't forget to look for ideas on the Internet. Pinterest in particular can be a great place to look for sensory inspiration in the room when you're looking for affordable solutions for your new space.