Sensory spaces can serve a variety of different purposes depending on who is visiting it and what they are hoping to get from the experience. Taking some time to consider the goals of your sensory space will help you decide the best way to set it up for maximum effectiveness. The lighting, sounds, furniture, toys and equipment you include will help guide visitors towards the mood you are trying to create. A calming sensory space will help kids in a number of different ways, and considering the needs of the children that will use it will help you create the perfect space for them.

A calming sensory room benefits many struggling children

Kids who struggle with a number of different issues can benefit from spending time in a calming sensory space. A space that reduces stimulation and stress can help kids to step away from stressors and experience a calmer attitude. Those who struggle with autism, ADHD, behavioural issues, anxiety, vision issues and other sensory processing issues will all benefit from having a dedicated calm space in which to spend time.

Creating a calming sensory space

Filling your area with things that help induce a calm and quiet atmosphere is the best way to ensure kids will benefit from this style of sensory space. The lighting, sounds, equipment and furniture you choose to include will all play a significant role in how kids interact with their surroundings and what they take away from their time there.

Ideal lighting for a calming space

When creating a calming sensory space, you want to use lighting that isn’t too harsh or bright. Children looking for a calming space will benefit from lighting with yellow tones and the ability to be dimmed. Dimmable lights allow the space to be adjusted to the needs of the child using it, so that their experience can be very personal to them. You can also use Christmas or string lights, battery powered candles, glow sticks, lava lamps and bubble tubes to set the mood for your calming sensory room.

Best equipment to encourage calmness

When creating your sensory space, the list of toys and equipment that you can include is endless. While some spaces are designed to help stimulate a child, others are intended to help calm them. The equipment that you include will play a significant role in what kind of space is created. Some ideas of items to bring into your calming sensory space include:

• Bubble tubes, walls or lamps
• An hourglass or Zen sand garden
• Fidget toys
• A tactile mat, wall or carpet
• Stress balls
• Magic sand
• Expanding Ball
• Silly putty, play-do or modelling clay
• Stuffed animals
• Weighted blanket
• Colouring books
• An interactive projector system

Calm-inducing furniture

While a sensory space created for a high-energy child might focus on using furniture that can allow movement, like trampolines and climbing ropes, a calming sensory space should include furniture that encourages relaxation. Items like beanbag chairs, floor pillows, hammocks and anything that can encourage kids to relax and unwind are perfect for a calming sensory space.

Best sounds for a calming sensory space

The background sounds in a sensory space can also play a role in the mood that’s created. A calming space should feature calm sounds to help children immerse in the experience. A sound machine can help you find the right sounds for your space. Tracks that include the sound of moving water like rain, bubbling streams, waves hitting the shore or a waterfall are typically very relaxing and calming. Soft instrumental music is also often quite calming. However, you’ll want to evaluate your particular child or children before committing to something as their interests and needs will vary.

How to create a calming environment

Even if all you have is a small corner of a room in which to create a sensory space, there are many things that you can do in order to maximize its effect on children. Combining the right lighting, sounds, toys, equipment and furniture is the best way to create a space that exudes calmness. Once you have figured out where your sensory space will be, you can start deciding what will go into it. Start by choosing a comfy seat and mood lighting, then add a few toys or activities that can help create a calm atmosphere. 

A sensory space can be simple to implement

Even if you’re dealing with fairly restricted space, you can create a mobile sensory cart or bin that can go wherever the child does, with small items that are portable. A sensory space does not need to take up an entire room or be anything over the top in order to be effective. Kids will benefit from having even a small area dedicated to providing tools to help them experience calmness. The sights, sounds, lighting and equipment you choose will help them to get the most out of a calming sensory space, regardless of where and how big it is.

When building a sensory room for children there are a wide variety of items that you can include that will help engage, relax, destress and stimulate. One such tool is an interactive sensory projector system. This modern technology can help children interact with and learn from their environment through exploration, movement and collaboration. The rewards that children of all ages, abilities and sensory needs can experience from using a gaming sensory room will stick with them for the rest of their lives.

At SensoryOne, we offer OM Interactive sensory projector systems across North America. Our experts will review applications and games suitable for your intended group – ideal for children and elderly groups.

Many benefits of a sensory projector system

Sensory projectors are a relatively new technology that blend visual cues with physical engagement in order to create a beneficial sensory environment that is catered towards the individuals looking to use it.

Stimulate the brain and body

The images, programs and games projected on an interactive projector encourage children to both physically and mentally engage with the experience. With a responsive system that responds to all movements big and small, kids will quickly learn the effect that their participation can have on their surroundings.

Encourages learning

A sensory projector system makes learning fun, even for children who struggle with learning delays, disabilities and differences.

Improves socialization

Projector systems encourage children to work together in order to engage with whatever image is being displayed. Multiplayer games and team challenges encourage kids to socialize and play together to reach a common goal.

Encourages both independent and collaborative play

The interesting and immersive games and activities can be catered to both individuals and groups of kids.

Geared towards engaging atypical and special needs children

With a variety of different activities and programs available, sensory room leaders can cater the offerings to the children they would like to entertain and engage.

Benefits mental and emotional health

Having a space in which they feel comfortable and accepted can help children to gain a sense of belonging and improved self-worth. This can lead to improved moods and increased emotional stability.

Benefits of creating a gaming sensory room for high child engagement

A gaming sensory room often involves using an interactive projector to create a stimulating and immersive experience that will have many positive effects on the day to day lives of those using it. A gaming sensory room has many benefits for its visitors including:

• Stimulates the imagination
• Encourages children of various abilities and backgrounds to work and play together
• Calls for active participation
• Promotes physical and mental development
• Improves language and communication skills
• Provides engaging and stimulating content
• Promotes the development of problem-solving and collaboration skills
• Allows children to control their immediate environment and experience instant rewards
• Offers opportunities for socialization that are specific to each child’s abilities
• Improves gross and fine motor skills
• Encourages families to play together and get to know each others needs, without pressure
• Can offer both calming or stimulating activities

OMi projection systems are a winning choice

The OMi brand of projection system offers a variety of options that are easily adapted to the space being used, and the people looking to use it. The incredibly responsive projections are perfect for both groups and individuals of all ages and abilities. With built-in applications and themed suites of games and programs, the OMi system is an excellent option for those looking to build a sensory gaming room.

Depending on the area you are looking to outfit with a projection system, you have a few options to choose from:

OmiVista

Available in both mounted and portable models, the omiVista projects images onto horizontal surfaces like floors and tables. Choose the Install Interactive model if you intend to mount the projector to the ceiling and won’t be moving it around. The Mobii Magic Surface is the most versatile model available as it can be moved around as needed and can even project onto small spaces like beds and tray tables.

OmiReflex

The omiReflex is also available in mounted and portable models, however this version projects onto vertical surfaces like walls and drop-down screens. This model can allow users to upload their own sounds, images and videos which brings in another level of interaction for the user. Another interesting benefit to the mobile version of the Reflex, the Mobile Interactive model, is that it can connect to game consoles like Apple TV, Nintendo Wii and Xbox Kinect.

OmiSky

As you may guess from the name, the omiSky projects onto the ceiling. Installed on a wall, this model projects a mirror image of the users on the ground onto the ceiling, while an app projects an image alongside them. Kids are then able to interact with the projection while looking up from a comfortable seated or laying position.

An interactive gaming room is the ultimate sensory tool

For those children who will benefit from using a sensory room, an interactive gaming room is the next level of support. A projection system can help both children and adults overcome many challenges, while engaging in their world in a manner that they feel comfortable with.

When you are creating a sensory space, it may initially feel overwhelming to decide which pieces of equipment are going to suit your needs the best. While you can often put together your ideal space on your own there’s usually a benefit to enlisting the help of a professional.

There are many sensory room equipment service providers to be found online, however it can be difficult to choose which one will be the most helpful to you. With so many options for what to include in your space, choosing a company that can help walk you through the process and make some personalized suggestions will make everything feel so much easier.

Factors to consider when choosing a Sensory Room Equipment Service Provider

At SensoryOne, we’re more than a sensory room equipment company. We provide expert guidance for clients in all settings as part of our service. It’s not the right sensory environment for your setting if it’s not customized for you. Let’s plan together!

There are a number of factors to consider when choosing a business to help you set up your sensory space. A sensory room equipment service provider will pride themselves on their ability to provide you with the tools to create a top-notch space that suits your needs. When you start the search for the best consultant for the task, these are the top factors to consider.

The range of equipment they have available

A sensory room service provider should have a wide variety of equipment available to choose from when designing your sensory space. A range of products that includes sensory and tactile walls, interactive panels, bubble tubes, fiber optic lighting systems, mobile units and technology-based activities can all help you create the perfect sensory space for your home.

Their ability to incorporate technology

It’s no secret that technology is an invaluable addition to a sensory space. An equipment provider should demonstrate comfort in recommending and explaining technological tools like an OM Interactive projection system and a Broomx virtual reality system. Including one or several of these features in your sensory space will have many positive effects for visitors to your sensory room.

Offers a good variety of tactile options

Some of the most common features in a sensory space are tactile ones. Equipment that offers a variety of different tactile opportunities is most likely to help calm, re-center and engage a visitor to a sensory room. Because of this, an equipment provider that offers a wide variety of options including tactile walls, panels, murals, tiles and toys is sure to be able to help you create the most useful and beneficial space possible.

Personal service is provided for project management

While you can certainly go through the steps to create a sensory space on your own, one mark of a top sensory equipment service provider is their ability to provide personal assistance. Having a representative to talk to about the different options and help you decide which pieces would work best for your needs will help ensure that everything you choose will go to good use.

Ability to stay within your budget

A significant part of any project is the budget that comes with it. A sensory equipment provider that can help you outfit your sensory space while sticking within your budget displays that they care about your experience and needs.

An interest in innovation

As the understanding of the kind of people who benefit from sensory spaces increases, so too does the innovation of what kind of equipment might be included. An equipment provider that expresses an interest in discovering the latest trends, technologies and innovations is a great resource for you. This interest in innovation shows that their offerings will be up to date and include a wide variety of equipment options.

Flexibility to work with the space you have available

A great sensory equipment provider will be able to work with you to create a useful sensory space in whatever kind of area you have available. Whether you are able to dedicate an entire room to the effort, are outfitting a small piece of a larger room or are looking for a mobile cart that can be moved to wherever it is needed, a sensory equipment provider will be able to assist in choosing the right items.

A great sensory space involves expert support

When you decide to create a sensory space, you are showing that you care about the individual or group of people who are going to be using the space. Therefore, it makes sense that you should choose a sensory room equipment service provider that is going to offer you the same care and support.

When you do find this equipment provider, you’ll be able to look to them for guidance in creating the best sensory space you possibly can, within the parameters you have available. Your budget, available space and the needs of your intended users will all play a role in how your sensory space will turn out. Whether you include technology like an interactive projector or virtual reality machine or opt for more tactile options, an equipment service provider will be happy to walk you through the options.

As we learn more about the struggles and characteristics involved with an autism spectrum diagnosis, a number of different related disorders are getting identified as well. One such category of disorders has been aptly named Sensory Processing Disorders. This grouping of symptoms can be quite a struggle for many people, both caregivers and those that have been diagnosed, especially when it isn’t all that clear what the disorder actually involves.

However, sensory processing disorders are extremely common, especially among those who have been diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum.

What is a sensory processing disorder?

A sensory processing disorder, or SPD, is a common condition that many kids and adults experience. It is characterized by the brain’s inability to process sensory inputs. In simple terms, this means that a person with SPD will struggle to receive and respond to senses like sight, sound and smell. In some cases, this means that someone might be oversensitive to sensory experiences in their world, while in other cases someone else may be insensitive to the same stimuli.

At SensoryOne, our sensory environment designs specialists help you determine the best sensory equipment and layout or users with sensory processing issues, frequently those with Autism. Let us help!

Although sensory processing disorders are mostly commonly identified in children, many adults also struggle with them. SPDs are often experienced by those who are on the autism spectrum, however these two disorders are not mutually exclusive. Like autism, SPDs are usually experienced on a spectrum so there is no obvious and direct point of diagnosis.

Some common characteristics of sensory processing disorder may include:

• Incoordination and lack of balance
• Difficulty in engaging the individual in conversation
• Over stimulation: sounds are too loud, rooms are too bright, clothes are irritating or too tight
• Under stimulation: can’t sit still, thrill seeking
• Issues with food textures
• Don’t respond well to sudden movements, sounds, touches or smells
• Increased behaviour concerns
• Poor motor skills
• Reduced muscle tone
• May exhibit language delays
• Doesn’t pick up on social cues

Many benefits to a sensory room or space

A sensory space has many benefits for people of all ages, especially for those who may be dealing with some level of a sensory processing disorder. The ability to spend time in a space that offers a wide variety of sensory opportunities can help make living with a sensory processing disorder more manageable.

It can help improve socialization

Some children with autism spectrum disorder, or ASD, struggle with interacting with their peers and teachers. The ability to retreat into a safe space with controlled sounds, interactions and activities can provide a sense of safety and allow visitors to socialize on their own terms. This opportunity to control sensory input can help those with an SPD to evaluate their surroundings and learn how to accept more social opportunities, even outside of the room.

Can promote cognitive development

An important aspect of cognitive development is the ability to explore the principles of cause and effect through play. Hands on exploration and experimentation encourages both kids and adults to problem solve in order to learn about their world and how to interact with it.

Improve motor skills

It’s not uncommon for coordination skills such as those needed to hold a pencil, tie a shoe, button a shirt or walk and talk at the same time to develop more slowly in people with autism or sensory processing disorders. A sensory room can offer visitors an opportunity to work on many different kinds of motor skills without the pressures of a highly stimulating environment.

They encourage visitors to feel calm

For someone with a sensory processing disorder, the world we live in can be an intense, stressful and highly stimulating place. A sensory room or space can help them to combat this overstimulation in a way that gives them the stimulation that they need.

It encourages the development of underused senses

People with a sensory processing disorder tend to spend more time relying on selective senses and almost hiding others. A multi-sensory room can provide a safe space for them to explore and experiment with their less favoured senses.

Helps teach coping skills

When overwhelmed with sensory input, it can be difficult to respond and cope in the moment. A sensory room is the perfect testing space for someone with SPD to figure out what works for them in order to mitigate these feelings of overwhelm. A sensory space is also the perfect place to try out and experiment with new sensory experiences.

A sensory processing disorder is manageable, if you know what you’re dealing with

Before a person gets diagnosed with a sensory processing disorder their behaviour may seem puzzling and even frustrating. However, once you’ve taken the time to get a diagnosis and are able to attribute symptoms to their cause, it becomes easier to understand. The average person who doesn’t have any SPDs of their own may be tempted to showcase impatience when faced with the wide variety of symptoms, however that just makes things tough on everyone involved. Incorporating a sensory room or space into the lives of anyone diagnosed with autism or a sensory processing disorder can help visitors learn many skills that will help them in their day to day lives.

Virtual reality technology is all the rage, and the latest advance, known as the Broomx MK360, offers great rewards to users of all ages, especially those with special needs. That ranges from older adults, including those with dementia, living in long-term-care to younger people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
 

Fully immersive VR experience: no headset required!

This device, newly available in North America from its manufacturer in Spain, creates a fully immersive experience without the need for VR headsets.

And while other similar technology requires multiple projectors, the Broomx is the only fully mobile, all-in-one unit. It projects a video that stretches across three walls and onto the ceiling, creating a captivating experience within a user’s entire field of vision. The BroomX is accompanied by more than 100 different 360-degree videos, and can project additional videos, for instance, those taken at home or at a particular event that might have special meaning to those watching.

Among the included videos, imagine, for instance, sitting amid a pod of dolphins watching them swim all around you, splashing and creating waves, and listening to them whistle and click.

Or how about virtually forest bathing — lying in a bed of sun-dappled autumn leaves in the woods, birds chirping in the background.

With no need for headsets, users of the Broomx have less chance of experiencing eye strain or “cybersickness,” a form of motion sickness in response to virtual environments. Many people also find headsets uncomfortable to wear. People with dementia or ASD might resist wearing them.

Improved cognitive function, memory stimulation

VR technology like the BroomX offers a virtual experience that is not only entertaining but engaging cognitively, emotionally and socially. It brings many rewards to users, ranging from lifting moods to creating feelings of calm and relaxation, as well as improving cognitive function, stimulating memory and reducing chronic and acute pain.

Recent research using the Broomx studied the impact of immersive technologies on people with Alzheimer’s disease and moderate to severe dementia living in long-term-care facilities.

In this study, 325 participants from three long-term-care homes enjoyed VR experiences such as being transported to a lush green park to see the cherry blossoms in bloom, being taken to the heart of a bustling city, and finding themselves surrounded by dairy cows in a farmer’s field.

These experiences were not only entertaining but engaging cognitively, emotionally and socially. The research found that residents who used the BroomX were relatively calmer, happier and more relaxed afterwards. Time with the BroomX projections also lifted moods, stimulated memory, improved both appetites and eating among underweight residents, and led to increased conversations and better sleep among all participants.

Study participants cut psychotropic medications

One of the most notable findings of the study, known as The Albert Project and conducted by Primacare Living Solutions with partners including the Centre for Aging and Brain Health Innovation (CABHI), was a 30-per-cent reduction in the use of psychotropic medications to treat participants’ responsive behaviours.
To learn more about the results found in The Albert Project study, please click to watch the video below.

 

VR tools help comfort those with ASD

VR technology has also proven helpful in dealing with the sensory, attention, behaviour, and communication challenges faced by people with ASD, to help them better connect with the people and the around them.

For instance, therapists have used VR exposure therapy to help people become more comfortable in some situations, such as being outdoors. Immersing them first in a virtual park makes it less stressful for them to make the transition to a real park. Similarly, VR technology has been used to help combat phobias.

The Broomx is sold exclusively in North America by SensoryOne, which distributes innovative, award-winning and inspiring sensory products and multisensory environments customized to the individual needs of users.