Sensory spaces are a neuro-affirmative approach to education, where learning environments cater to the diverse needs of students and embrace their unique strengths and abilities. This helps students to:
Self-regulate: Students are empowered to manage their emotions and behaviour, and given the tools to prevent sensory overload and manage anxiety.
Stay engaged: A comfortable and supportive space helps students feel more at ease, encouraging open communication and positive connections with peers and educators.
Feel safe and calm: When feeling anxious or overwhelmed, a sensory space is a safe escape to relax, reset, and manage sensory overload.
Learn effectively: When students' sensory needs are supported, they are better equipped to stay focused and attentive while learning.
A Sensory Transformation at Banmira Specialist School
We recently worked with educators at Banmira Specialist School in Shepparton, to create a sensory room for students with disabilities and diverse sensory needs. The goal was to create a safe and welcoming space where students can develop life skills, self-regulate, and reduce anxiety.
What Makes a Great Sensory Space?
An effective sensory space includes a blend of sensory experiences, to accommodate varying learning styles and needs. Banmira sensory room does this through:
Lighting and Colour: Adjustable lighting from mood shapes, LED ceiling tiles, and interactive wall panels engage and relax the senses, boost focus, and prevent overstimulation.
Sound: Rhythmic and calming sounds from a bubble tube and interactive wall panels help students self-regulate and communicate with educators and peers.
Smell: A wall-mounted Aroma Box introduces subtle scents such as lavender and chamomile to create a calming atmosphere and enhance mood and attention.
Tactile Input: A range of tactile experiences from wall panels to sensory floor tiles improve sensory integration and motor skill development, and encourage hands-on exploration.
Vestibular and Proprioceptive Input: Items including a weighted blanket, a Deep Pressure Squeeze Machine, and a vibrating Resonance Lounger improve body awareness and regulate emotions through controlled movement and deep pressure input.
Most importantly, Banmira’s sensory space offers a versatile mix of calming and interactive elements. Especially for these students living with disabilities ranging from mild to severe, a flexible sensory space caters to shifts in sensory tolerance and allows students to regulate and learn at their own pace.
Looking to the Future
As schools increasingly recognise the importance of inclusive and accessible learning spaces, sensory rooms continue to prove their value in creating a school environment where every student is supported and given the means to learn and thrive.
Learn more about the Banmira sensory room and its impact at www.sensotec.com.au.
1300 622 180
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