Category: Sensory

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), sensory processing disorder or functional needs (commonly referred to as special needs) interact with the world in unique ways. Sensory tools are designed to engage specific senses in a gentle way, enabling your child to process new information and experiences.

The introduction of sensory toys can redirect their physical and emotional energy for therapeutic benefit to help them remain calm and learn ways to manage their senses. A weighted blanket is just one example of a sensory tool that provides a soothing sense of security and relaxation. Weighted blankets offer sensory input that can help with anxiety reduction during the day and improved sleep quality at night.

What Is a Weighted Blanket and What Does It Do?

A weighted blanket is just like a standard blanket, except it has filler added to provide weight. Equal weight distribution can mimic the effects of deep touch pressure (DTP), also known as deep pressure stimulation. DTP is a type of therapy that uses firm, gentle pressure to calm the nervous system and relax the body. A weighted blanket can provide the benefits of DTP by releasing feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine when applied to the body.

DTP can also provide proprioceptive input to the entire body. Children and adults often receive this input through cuddling, squeezing and holding. Proprioceptive input plays a large role in calming and promoting self-regulation in individuals who are easily overwhelmed by sensory stimulation.

Weighted blankets are intended to provide the comforting sensation of a hug, which can be beneficial for children with ASD and unique sensory needs. They help prepare the body for rest by calming the breathing and slowing the heart rate, letting the body know it’s time to sleep.

One study revealed that children with ASD and functional needs are more likely to have sleep difficulties, including:

• Insomnia
• Daytime sleepiness
• Parasomnia
• Circadian rhythm disorders
• Sleep-movement related disorders
• Prolonged sleep onset latency
• Extended night awakenings

According to this study, parents reported their children slept better and were calmer after using the weighted blanket.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Weighted Blanket

Every child with special needs is unique, but many can experience a range of common symptoms like sleep difficulties and anxiety. If you’re looking for a suitable weighted blanket for your child, here are some important factors to keep in mind.

1. Size and Age

Weighted blankets are available in various sizes to accommodate children and adults, just like a standard comforter. Choosing the correct size ensures your child will get the full benefits of the weighted blanket. You’ll want to select a size that covers your child’s feet, legs and abdomen to provide even weight distribution.

The blanket should not be so large that it hangs off their bed. Weighted blankets for adults typically come in mattress sizes, including twin, full, queen or king. Some standard weighted blanket sizes for children include:

• 36 inches by 60 inches
• 28 inches by 20 inches
• 56 inches by 42 inches

You may also want to account for growth spurts depending on your child’s height and age. For example, a slightly larger blanket with a lighter weight will allow them to enjoy it longer, whereas they may quickly outgrow a blanket that barely covers their legs and feet.

2. Material

Weighted blankets come in a range of different materials, including:

• Cotton
• Polyester
• Rayon
• Wool
• Flannel
• Linen

If your child has an aversion to certain fabrics like polyester, for example, a cotton weighted blanket may be more appropriate. The weighted blanket’s material will also contribute to its durability. High-quality materials with box stitching tend to stand up well over time.

3. Filling

Weighted blankets are made with different types of fillers that contribute to most of their weight. The most common options are:

• Microglass beads: Microglass filling is environmentally friendly, hypoallergenic, non-toxic and generally machine washable.
• Polymer pellets: Weighted blankets with poly pellets or poly beads are safe and completely non-toxic. Polymer pellets are relatively easy to clean, long-lasting and resistant to moisture. Polymer filling is used in standard toys like stuffed animals.
• Steel shot beads: These beads tend to be larger and heavier. While very durable, this filling may be too heavy for some children. Steel beads also tend to be noisier, which may not be suitable for children with sensory sensitivities.

4. Weight

The weight of a weighted blanket is perhaps the most important factor to consider for optimal comfort and safety. Weighted blankets can range from 5 pounds to 35 pounds. A weighted blanket that’s too light may not provide the benefits of deep pressure stimulation, while too much weight can cause discomfort and restrict airflow. The appropriate weight should feel like a gentle hug but not constrictive.

As a rule of thumb, children’s weighted blankets should not exceed 10% of their body weight plus one or two pounds. Here are some general guidelines for choosing a weighted blanket based on your child’s body weight:

• 20 pounds: 3-4 pound blanket
• 30 pounds: 4-5 pound blanket
• 40 pounds: 5-6 pound blanket
• 50 pounds: 6-7 pound blanket
• 60 pounds: 7-8 pound blanket
• 70 pounds: 8-9 pound blanket
• 80 pounds: 9-10 pound blanket
• 90 pounds: 10-11 pound blanket
• 100 pounds: 11-12 pound blanket

You may be able to size up or down by a pound for maximum comfort and movement. Generally, weighted blankets above 10 pounds can be too heavy for some young children.

5. Sensory Preferences

Children with ASD or sensory processing disorder often have unique preferences when it comes to textures and fabrics. When selecting a weighted blanket, consider the comforting toys and tools your child gravitates toward. Their general preferences can be a good indication as to what type of weighted blanket material, filling and texture will attract their interest.

6. Temperature Regulation

Every individual has different preferences for temperature control, especially when sleeping. Children with functional needs may be more averse or hypersensitive to very cold or hot temperatures. Weighted blankets feel like a big, warm hug, but they can sometimes be too warm for hot sleepers. You’ll want to find a weighted blanket with breathable material or cooling properties to maintain a consistent body temperature and prevent your child from getting too hot.

Weighted Blanket Care Guidelines

It’s important to always follow the care tag or manufacturer’s instructions before washing your child’s weighted blanket. These blankets have a heavier construction by nature, which means they cannot always be washed and maintained the same way as a typical blanket. Specific care instructions will depend on the type of fabric, size and fill material. Here are some general recommendations for cleaning your weighted blanket.

1. Washing

Some weighted blankets can be machine-washed with gentle, bleach-free detergent. Some have removable covers you can wash on their own. It’s best to avoid fabric softeners because these can cause buildup that can break down fabric fibers over time. Use gentle or delicate wash cycles with cold or warm water. Many weighted blankets should be hand-washed to protect the integrity of the fabric and filling.

The best option is soaking the blanket in a large sink or bathtub with mild, bleach-free detergent. Stir the blanket in the soapy water to evenly distribute the detergent and rinse until there are no soap suds.

2. Drying

Like many large comforters, a weighted blanket may be too heavy to tumble dry. Aggressive spin cycles can cause the filler to clump together and potentially damage the material. The most effective way to dry your weighted blanket and keep it in good condition is to spread it out evenly and allow it to air dry.

3. Spot Cleaning and Dry Cleaning

Weighted blankets should be dry cleaned only if they have a “dry clean only” label, are too heavy or large for your washing machine, or require extensive stain removal.

4. Cleaning Frequency

It’s a smart idea to wash your weighted blanket every few weeks to prevent sweat buildup. Washing frequency will largely depend on how often your child uses it and whether it has stains or spots.

Tips for Caring for a Weighted Blanket

Proper cleaning and maintenance will ensure your child can use their soothing weighted blanket for as long as possible. Here are some additional care tips for weighted blankets:

• Pre-treat stains: Addressing tough stains before washing can keep your blanket looking new. You can remove most stains on weighted blankets with gentle soap and water, distilled white vinegar solutions, degreasers, hydrogen peroxide, bleach or a stain remover. Use a toothbrush, rag, washcloth or soft-bristled brush to gently dab the stain.
• Avoid hot water: To extend the life of your weighted blanket, always use cold or lukewarm water. Excessive heat can damage the fabric or potentially melt the inner filler. For the same reason, weighted blankets should not be ironed.
• Put away after use: Folding or rolling your child’s weighted blanket and storing it when not in use can prevent damage and stains. For instance, instead of using the weighted blanket as your child’s bed cover, only bring it out when you begin their nighttime routine.

How to Introduce Your Child to a Weighted Blanket

As a parent of a child with special needs, you know better than anyone that new experiences can sometimes make them feel overwhelmed or hesitant. Here are some tips for successfully introducing a weighted blanket to your child:

• Bring it out when they are calm, such as during quiet activities.
• Allow them to touch and feel the blanket before you place it on top of them.
• Praise your child for trying something new.
• Offer rewards or incentives for using the weighted blanket.
• Present the weighted blanket as an option instead of a requirement.

Using a weighted blanket comes with an adjustment period that varies from person to person. It can take a few days or even a week or two until your child adapts to sleeping under its weight. Some children may feel instantly soothed by the light pressure of the blanket, while others may only feel comfortable using it for 10 minutes at a time.

You can help them ease into it by gradually increasing their use until they feel safe and cozy. Some children may even prefer to sleep with half of the blanket on them at first until they get used to it.

FAQs About Using Weighted Blankets for Children With Functional Needs

Curious about whether a weighted blanket is right for your child? Here are some commonly asked questions.

1. Are Weighted Blankets Safe for Children?

As long as you choose the correct weight and size, a weighted blanket is generally safe for children. However, weighted blankets should not be used with children under the age of four or children who are less than 20 pounds. Ensure your child does not put the weighted blanket over their face during quiet time or when they sleep.

2. Can a Weighted Blanket Be Too Heavy?

Yes, a weighted blanket that’s too heavy can cause discomfort and counteract its intended benefits. At the right weight, the blanket should provide a calm-inducing amount of pressure similar to being hugged or swaddled. Too much weight can result in restlessness, poor sleep, overheating and limited mobility when sleeping.

Your child or family member should not feel confined in one spot and should be able to remove the weighted blanket on their own.

3. Can Anyone Use a Weighted Blanket?

While weighted blankets are generally safe to use and are helpful for those with sensory sensitivities, it’s possible that some children may find the experience overwhelming at first. Weighted blankets also may not be appropriate for individuals with certain pre-existing medical conditions, including:

• Claustrophobia
• Poor circulation
• Low blood pressure
• Epilepsy
• Heart problems
• Breathing problems
• Asthma
• Sleep apnea
• Sensitive skin or allergies

We recommend consulting with your child’s physician before getting a weighted blanket to ensure it’s appropriate for them to use.

4. How Long Do Weighted Blankets Last?

Weighted blankets can generally last up to five years, depending on how often your child uses them and how well they’re maintained. Proper care and cleaning can extend the blanket’s lifespan.

5. Do Weighted Blankets Shrink?

Depending on the material and method of washing, it’s possible for a weighted blanket to shrink. Some can be safely washed on a gentle cycle with cold water and a low-heat setting in the dryer. However, hand-washing your weighted blankets in cold or lukewarm water and air drying them is the most effective way to prevent shrinking. Keep in mind that some weighted blankets can only be hand-washed and air-dried.

6. What Is the Best Sleeping Position for Using a Weighted Blanket?

Your child can comfortably sleep on their side, back or stomach with a weighted blanket. It’s generally recommended that side sleepers use a lighter weighted blanket because more weight will fall on the shoulders, hips and joints. Sleeping on the back or stomach is more ideal to ensure light, even pressure over the entire body.

Find Weighted Blankets, Sensory Toys and More at Enabling Devices

Children with ASD or sensory processing disorder can benefit from weighted blankets to provide comfort, relaxation and calming effects. Enabling Devices carries a range of weighted sensory products that provide deep pressure stimulation. Our weighted blankets are filled with non-toxic pellets and available in two sizes and weight options. We also carry weighted stuffed animals that are smooth to the touch and provide grounding comfort.

At Enabling Devices, we’re here to help you find the right tools and toys to unlock your child’s potential and bring them joy. Browse our sensory toys for more options or contact us to learn about our range of products.

This year weighted blankets are all the rage! We guess that puts us ahead of the curve, since Enabling Devices has been selling weighted blankets (as well as weighted vests, handwriting gloves, wraps, toys and our weighted kit) for years! Why are these items suddenly so popular? Here is the lowdown on this year’s coziest weighted products!

The history of weighted blankets:
According to various sources including The Atlantic, Tina Champagne, an occupational therapist who practiced sensory integration therapy, was the first to advocate the use of weighted blankets with victims of trauma in 1999. Since then, weighted blankets, vests and other products have been widely used by adults and children with autism spectrum disorders, ADHD and sensory processing disorders. It’s only recently that weighted blankets have gained popularity with the general public, many of whom use it to improve sleep and decrease their stress and anxiety.

How weighted blankets are made:
Weighted products are covered with fabric and filled with plastic beads or pellets, which are sewn into small fabric boxes to keep weight evenly distributed. The blankets come in different sizes, and should be selected based on the size and preferences of the individual who uses them. Enabling Devices’ weighted blankets are filled with non-toxic pellets and can be hand-washed.

How weighted blankets work:
Weighted products work by giving deep pressure sensory information to joints and muscles. According to Understood.com, deep pressure “can increase the release of serotonin in the brain. This neurotransmitter is sometimes called the “happy” chemical because it creates a sense of calm and well-being.” Weighted blankets create a cocoon-like feeling that helps many people relax and fall asleep.

Selecting your blanket:
Blanket size and weight should be chosen based on the weight and preferences of the individual who will use it. As a guideline however, this 2019 article in Forbes magazine, advises readers to choose a blanket “that’s roughly 10 percent of your body weight. For example, for someone who weighs 150 lbs., a 15 lbs. blanket would be best. If you fall in between the standard weights of blankets, it’s better to choose the heavier option.” Enabling Devices sells weighted blankets in two sizes. Our Large Blanket (Item #3990) measures 56″L x 42″W and weighs 7 lbs.; and our Medium Blanket (Item #3941) measures 28″L x 20″W and weighs 5 lbs. It’s also important to choose a blanket covered in a fabric that feels good next to the skin. Please keep in mind that weighted blankets are not safe for infants.

Other weighted products:
As mentioned above, Enabling Devices also sells weighted products other than blankets. Our popular Weighted Vests (Item #3953M) resemble typical fleece vests but contain inside pockets designed to hold weights of different sizes. Weighted Puppy (Item #3937) can be worn around the shoulders to help stabilize the regulatory system and improve attention and concentration. The Gel Lap Pad (Item #3142) made with sparkly gel inside, helps with regulation while it also provides visual and tactile stimulation. These items are often used by educators and therapists in their work with students and clients. Enabling Devices also sells a Weighted Kit (Item #7024) that includes a variety of weighted items and is perfect for the classroom.

Buy Weighted Blanks From Enabling Devices

Updated 3/8/2023

The human brain is designed to regulate how we react to sensory inputs — everything we hear, see, smell, taste and touch. This link between the brain and our behavior is called “sensory integration.” For most people, this is an unconscious part of the daily experience. But for an individual with a developmental disorder, such as autism or a sensory processing disorder, the way the brain processes these experiences can be a source of distress and discomfort.

In some cases, the brain may overreact to sensory stimuli. Other times, it may not react enough. A person’s sensory experiences go beyond the basic five senses and can negatively affect deeper sensory responses, known as the tactile, vestibular and proprioceptive sensory systems.

“Tactile” refers to the experience of touch, including textures, detecting hot and cold temperatures, moisture and pain. “Vestibular” is the sensory system that controls balance and movement, including auditory processing and visual development — sight and sound. The third system — “proprioceptive” — includes all muscles and joints, which means it influences a variety of bodily functions, including needing to use the bathroom and feelings of being hungry.

The inability to regulate certain sensory stimuli from any or all of these systems is called “sensory processing disorder.” In many cases, it can cause a variety of behaviors, such as fighting, meltdowns, spinning, rocking or hand-flapping, as well as problems with information processing and cognitive and physical development.

So what is a parent or caregiver to do?

One increasingly popular method of treating and overcoming sensory problems is the use of a sensory room. These “safe” spaces are designed to provide room for individuals with a sensory processing disorder to decompress and confront a variety of sensory issues in a way that will help them to cope with sensory experiences.

Sensory rooms are pivotal components in helping children and people with disabilities experience the pleasure of play, find comfort and improve their sensory processing skills.

What Is a Sensory Room?

A sensory room is a space of any size, designed to help an individual with sensory processing disorder develop coping skills and regulate their brain’s response to stimuli. In some cases, a sensory space can be a whole room, or it can simply be a space set aside in a corner of a larger room. The contents and design of a sensory room or space can and should  be tailored to the needs of the individuals using it, because each person with a sensory processing disorder will have different sensory needs.

Also known as a “multi-sensory room,” these safe spaces have been in use since the 1970s, but now that one in 44 children is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which typically affects sensory integration, the need for them is greater than ever. The concepts behind sensory rooms have been recognized by occupational therapists (OTs) for years, but nowadays more and more parents, therapists and educators are installing them in their homes, clinics, hospitals and schools.

Creating a multi-sensory environment in a home, clinic, hospital or school can be an ideal way to continue the benefits of occupational therapy outside of the OT’s office. It also allows children and adults with sensory integration needs to have consistent access to the same sensory activities that benefit them during their therapy sessions.

While many people are familiar with the use of sensory rooms for those on the autism spectrum, they can also be utilized for individuals with cerebral palsy and Down syndrome as well as people facing challenges with communication, movement, balance and social skills.

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The History of Sensory Rooms

While sensory rooms might seem like a relatively new phenomenon, the importance of play and activity in childhood has been recognized for ages.

In 1837, the German educator Friedrich Froebel opened what might be considered the first known sensory classroom — the Play and Activity Institute in Bad Blankenburg, Germany. The school became known as “Kindergarten” shortly thereafter.

Froebel passionately advocated the importance of play for children, regardless of their physical, emotional and cognitive differences. He once said, “play is the highest expression of human development in childhood, for it alone is the free expression of what is in a child’s soul.”

Years later, in the 1970s, Dutch therapists Jan Hulsegge and Ad Verheul opened an experimental sensory room during their time at the de Hartenberg Institute. They aimed to provide people with disabilities with a sensory learning and play environment incorporating visual, tactile and auditory experiences.

From there, the popularity and prevalence of sensory rooms took off. Sensory rooms now exist in residential and commercial settings, in homes, schools, in health care settings and workplaces.

Why Create a Sensory Room or Space?

Individuals with sensory processing disorders often struggle to cope with the world around them. Loud noises, bright lights, rough patterns or foods with unwelcome textures are just some of the things that can cause distress. Because their conditions can magnify even minor sensory encounters, these children and adults may be prone to meltdowns, tantrums or sometimes harmful attempts at self-soothing.

How Does a Sensory Room Help People With Disabilities?

Sensory rooms are a place where individuals can go when they feel overstimulated — not simply a place for a time-out. A sensory room provides a calming environment where an overstimulated person can regain control of their emotions while enjoying sensory tools and toys.

While sensory rooms may not eliminate the brain’s sensitivity to certain stimuli, they can help individuals with sensory processing disorders to learn coping skills they can use in the outside world.

Why Is Sensory Play Beneficial?

To understand what the benefits of a sensory room are, it helps to know more about sensory play.

Sensory Play Benefits Each Person Differently

Because each person has different sensory sensitivities and ways of reacting to them, the benefit each receives from a sensory room will also be individual. Overall, though, sensory rooms provide a variety of benefits for both children and adults of all ages, such as:

1. Calming Effects

Negative reactions to sensory experiences are distressing for both children and adults. When they get agitated, spending time in a dim, calming room where they can be alone and take charge of their emotions is beneficial. Sensory room elements for people with autism or other sensory processing difficulties who need a calming environment include a white noise machine, an aromatherapy diffuser or a variety of other soothing items designed to help them regain control of their emotions.

2. Stimulation

In some cases, children and adults may need additional sensory stimulation to heighten feelings of awareness and well-being. For these individuals, a sensory space may contain specially designed toys or items that encourage engagement and appeal to sensory seekers. These toys help them become more aware of their senses and explore sensory experiences in a safe environment.

3. Socialization

While some individuals may benefit from using a sensory room alone, sensory rooms can also provide places for them to practice interacting with others. This may be especially true of a sensory room used within the school setting. In these cases, the idea is to provide a safe, stress-free space that allows children to move and explore together, especially in rooms where they can practice becoming more aware of how their bodies move and controlling those movements when they are around others.

4. Improved Focus

Individuals on the autism spectrum or with other developmental disorders are often distracted, and they struggle to pay attention to what’s going on around them. A sensory room can help them increase awareness of their surroundings and learn to cope with real-life situations where concentration is required, such as in the classroom or the workplace.

5. Sensory-Motor Skills Development

Because muscle movement and balance can be a challenge for those with with sensory processing disorders, providing a safe space to hone fine motor skills and practice movement can be beneficial. Equipment that encourages bouncing, jumping or even core stabilizing activities can help promote this.

6. Cognitive Development

While sensory rooms won’t rewire the brain, they can be instrumental in teaching your family member how to process experiences and cope in situations where their reactions might otherwise become extreme. For those on the autism spectrum or with sensory processing disorders, it’s also a great way to help them explore cause and effect as they learn about how their actions influence the world around them.

7. Sensory Development

By creating a sensory space in your home, your family member can explore their senses — and their brain’s reaction to those experiences — in a safe, stress-free environment. By exposing them to the brain’s complex reactions to things they touch or hear, sensory-motor skills and balance as well as their muscle functions, they can learn how to process and control those experiences when they are away from home.

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Creating Sensory Spaces in Homes

Creating a sensory space in your home can help your family member hone their coping skills and interact with sensory input somewhere that’s safe and comfortable for them. At home, they are likely to feel relaxed and can make better progress confronting and working through sensory issues.

The great thing about a sensory space is that it doesn’t have to take up an entire room in your home. Any corner in a playroom, bedroom or family room in your home can be made into a sensory space.

How to Design a Sensory Room

Designing sensory spaces in a home can be challenging, especially if you aren’t sure where to start. To make the process easier, stop and ask yourself a few questions:

What Does My Family Member Need?

Everyone is different and will require different toys, tools, lighting and ambiance. In some cases, your family member may need stimulation. In other cases, they may require calming sensory input. Some individuals may need to work on balance and an aversion to loud noises, while others are struggling to hone fine motor skills or cope with a sensitivity to textures.

How you use the space will depend on a variety of factors, including the age of your family member, their specific struggles and the space you have available. Some caregivers set aside a sensory space as a time-out area and a place where their loved one can calm down when they are over-stimulated or worked up.

Others prefer to use the space to develop their family member’s sensory skills and coping mechanisms to avoid meltdowns. While both of these are good goals, it’s important to identify your own goals for constructing the space. That will help you decide how to design the area and what items you need to include.

Where Will I Set Up the Sensory Space?

A sensory space doesn’t have to be an entire room. It should be in an out-of-the-way area of your home that’s not prone to a lot of noise or interruptions, though. Your family member should be able to spend time in this area without contending with sounds from the television, toilets flushing or fragments of conversations from other family members.

Sensory spaces also work better if they are not near windows so that the lighting can be controlled, particularly if you plan on using special lighting as part of the sensory experience. Because you’ll likely be using artificial lighting in some capacity, you’ll also need to select a spot that has easy access to at least one electrical outlet.

What Products Will Best Meet My Loved One’s Needs?

Here’s where you decide what is in your sensory room. No two home sensory spaces are the same because each one is constructed with your family member’s specific needs in mind. Once you’ve identified what you’re trying to address, then it’s time to begin shopping for the best sensory products.

Selecting products to meet your family member’s requirements can be challenging if you haven’t designed a sensory space before. That’s why working with an experienced company like Enabling Devices can help you through the process. Before you begin purchasing products, fill out our design questionnaire. It’s meant to match your needs with our products. Based on your input, we can guide you through the process of designing a sensory space.

Depending on your family member’s needs, you can choose from a wide variety of items. Examples of some items that might end up in your sensory space include an Enabling Devices Bean Bag Chair or an Enabling Devices Beanless Bag Chair, Sensory LED Bubble Tubes, a Fiber Optic Curtain and activity mats.

How Do You Make a Sensory Room?

Once you have a location for your sensory space and items to fill it, it’s time to start decorating. Remember that a sensory space is not intended to be a gym or a space to do homework. Rather, it’s a place for your family member to explore and engage with the items in the room.

While the space should be fairly open and uncluttered, make sure to provide a comfortable place to sit or lie down. Make sure that all of the items in the room are within easy reach. This is especially important if you’re including mirrors in your sensory space since your family member needs to be able to see themselves as they explore.

Also make sure that you understand how all the equipment in the sensory room works and how it can help your family member. Being engaged and informed about their sensory space can help you supervise and make sure the space is safe and serving its purpose.

That being said, also remember that a sensory space is a place for your family member to explore and experience things without a lot of instruction or interruption. As long as the environment is safe, stand back and let the fun and learning begin!

Factors to Consider When Creating a Sensory Room

Ideally, the sensory room should be an oasis separate from other busier areas of the house or building, away from noisy hallways. But you can make an area of an existing room work, as well.

Below are some other key factors to consider when planning your new sensory room.

Ventilation, Cooling and Heating

Before selecting a location for your sensory room, double-check the room’s air circulation and temperature regulation options. Electronic equipment increases the temperature of the room, especially if there are multiple people in the sensory room at one time. It’s best to have a dedicated thermostat within the room to easily monitor and change the temperature when necessary.

Environment

Consider the size, shape and general environment of the room. Larger, angular rooms are best if you intend to hang objects on walls. Regardless of the room’s size, select a space without windows to avoid bright lights and create a dark, soothing environment. If you can’t use a room without windows, consider using blackout curtains or blinds.

You’ll also want to consider insulating the room. If you can hear outside noises inside, soundproof the room by installing soundproof drywall, thick, shaggy carpets and acoustic foam panels. That being said, always ensure any carpeting you choose is wheelchair-friendly if needed.

Design

Your sensory room’s design includes the auditory, tactile and visual components that set the mood for the learning and play that will soon take place. The noises, colors, materials and lights should combine to create a soothing, accessible environment excellent for decompression. Consider the following when designing a sensory room:

• Walls: The wall colors you choose should depend on the visual elements you intend to use. For example, if you plan to use a projector to display colorful shapes and patterns, a white or off-white wall is best. However, if you intend to use ultraviolet lights, a darker wall is best.
• Ceilings: Ceilings offer a unique opportunity to create an immersive sensory experience. Fun paint colors, sensory ceiling panels, glow-in-the-dark decals and billowing canopies are fun ceiling additions.
• Floors: There are many styles of flooring to choose from for sensory rooms, including low-pile carpets, foam tiles, rubber tiles and folding mats. Consider a combination of flooring styles and choose a firm material for primary pathways.

Electricity

Next, you’ll want to ensure the room has ample electrical outlets. It’s also best to have a separate capability switch — or on/off wall switch — for every electrical product. If possible, locate all wall switches in a designated and conveniently located spot in the room.

Each product should also have a suitable capability switch for the end user. The switch type you choose for your sensory products should not fatigue or pain the end user, but instead, give them the best control over the tool or device possible.

Equipment

Once you’ve selected a room and considered its layout and design, it’s time to select your equipment. People create sensory rooms for all kinds of reasons — from reducing stress and improving social interactions to increasing focus and motivating learning — so the equipment you choose should suit the room’s ultimate purpose.

What Are the Benefits of Sensory Rooms in Schools?

Sensory spaces in schools have been shown to decrease negative behaviors and improve student engagement. The benefits of sensory rooms in schools have led some educators to begin using sensory rooms for groups of students beyond those with a diagnosed sensory processing disorder or developmental disability.

Any student who struggles with balance and a sense of where their body is in the area around them can benefit from time in a sensory space. By learning about their bodies and how to control them, these students can develop their muscle control and awareness of what’s around them.

Having sensory rooms within a school can also reduce the need to send students out of the school for additional services. For students who need to work with occupational or physical therapists, these professionals can be brought into the school, rather than students being taken out of class and the school to have these appointments. This maintains consistency in a student’s day and reduces the amount of time they have to be away from school.

In some cases, sensory rooms can also be used for students who have experienced trauma. School counselors and psychologists can and should be consulted on the best way to use these rooms for students in these situations.

Whether your school’s sensory room will accommodate a large student population or a small number, it doesn’t have to be fancy to become an effective part of your instructional programming. Painting the room a relaxing color, putting soft rugs or carpet on the floor and then including a equipment to address a variety of needs is all that’s required for this space to be established.

How to Choose Products for Your Sensory Space

When you’re working on how to create a sensory space, it can be helpful to narrow down your choices of equipment to include in your room. By determining your needs — and how much space you have to work with — you can choose from a wide range of products and designs that will be helpful to you and your loved one.

Sensory Products for Calming

If you’re planning to use your sensory room for calming, it’s important to design a space that encourages relaxation and quiet. Some ways to incorporate calm into your space include:

• Sensory lighting: If your room already has windows, then find curtains or shades that can soften the natural light and create a more calming space. If you have a dark space that needs a certain amount of light, select lights that enable you to see but still maintain a soft, calm feeling in the room.
• Weighted Clothing or Blankets: The deep pressure these products provide to muscles and joints can help your loved one calm down and relax when they need it the most.
• Chewables: Whether your loved one craves oral stimulation or struggles with oral motor skills, providing sensory input to the mouth, jaw and lips can provide a relaxing experience and help with breath control, muscle tone and lip closure, too.

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Sensory Products for Auditory Needs

While there are times that your loved one will need peace and quiet, there are other times when sound can provide a calming or focusing effect that can enhance the sensory room experience. Some ways to incorporate items for auditory needs include:

• Compact Activity Center: A compact activity center is a multi-function toy. Among its many features is a music box designed to stimulate sensory and cognitive development.
• Sound Toys: Whether your loved one is soothed by music or white noise, toys that make soothing sounds like our Jellyfish Soother or a music player of some kind may be helpful in your sensory space.

Sensory Products for Vestibular and Sensory-Motor Skills

Products that encourage balance, muscle strength and improved sensory-motor skills are essential components of a sensory room. These may include:

• Donut Balls: These are designed to improve coordination, balance and flexibility. They are similar to exercise balls and improve core strength. They’re also just plain fun!
• Ball Chairs: These chairs can assist a loved one who struggles with sitting still and paying attention. With regular use, they can also improve balance and posture.
• Hanging Chair: A zero-gravity chair is designed to improve gross motor and vestibular functioning.

Sensory Products for Tactile Needs

In many cases, you will want to incorporate a variety of tactile experiences into a sensory space, including:

• Therapeutic Textured Balls: This kit includes balls of all different textures that increase stimulation while also providing exercise.
• Gel Mats: Gel mats such as this one, combine tactile experiences with improving finger strength and eye-hand coordination.
• Tactile Manipulatives: These items are designed to decrease stress and increase focus and concentration. They can also help your loved one improve their tactile awareness and fine motor skills. Manipulatives can include plush toys as well as activity centers.

Rarely does an individual on the autism spectrum or another developmental disorder only struggle in one area. In most cases, your sensory room will include a few items from each of these categories.

The Cost of a Sensory Room

Sensory rooms don’t need to take up a lot of space or feature a lot of equipment to be effective. According to Karen Gallichio, a Product Development Specialist at Enabling Devices, you can create a sensory room using a small 4-foot by 4-foot space. Closets, corners and other small spaces are perfectly suitable for making a sensory room on a budget.

That being said, you might be curious about how much it costs to create a sensory room. You can furnish your sensory room for as little as a few hundred dollars. The key to furnishing your sensory room affordably is to understand the end user’s sensory or learning needs or goals.

It’s also helpful to partner with a sensory room designer. At Enabling Devices, we offer free sensory room design services to those who need help transforming a space into a sensory room cost-effectively.

Design Ideas for Sensory Rooms

No two sensory rooms are the same. These versatile environments can help kids or adults engage with their senses in many different ways. If you’re looking to outfit a sensory room, the sky’s the limit. Whether you’re building a compact sensory space or a large one, try these sensory room design tips.

1. Offer Different Types of Sensory Engagement

Give kids an opportunity to use as many of their senses as possible. Start with a tactile toy like Fish Play Mats or Fidget Boards that can suit different needs, from tactile-seeking behavior to tactile hypersensitivity. Let them explore spatial awareness through Crash Pads or proprioceptive skills with Gel Lap Pads.

Provide lots of options, so kids can choose the activities that will help them at any given time. One day, they may need visual stimulation. The next, they may be overstimulated and would benefit more from calming activities.

2. Consider Your Lighting

Lighting is a vital part of any sensory space. Getting away from harsh fluorescent lights might be a primary reason to escape into a sensory room for many. Provide soft, cozy lighting.

While you want to avoid overstimulation, you can also use lights to provide just the right amount of intrigue. Mesmerizing Fiber Optic Sprays or a Fluorescent Black Light Carpet can offer visual stimulation without overdoing it.

3. Think About the User’s Unique Needs

Consider what your users prefer. This task could be difficult if multiple kids will use the room, but you can still keep their abilities and preferences in mind. For instance, kids who struggle with fine motor skills would likely benefit more from a large, easy-to-handle toy instead of something small and intricate.

Leaning into their preferences can also be a great way to entice kids. If they love sea creatures, Misty the Whale is a calming toy that would be a great addition.

4. Have Fun With Your Décor

As you design a sensory room, keep fun front and center. After all, you want to make a space that kids look forward to using. You may need to balance whimsical, fun decorations with gentle, soothing ones, but products designed for sensory needs can help immensely. If something isn’t quite right, you can always change it later.

Get Expert Assistance in Designing a Sensory Space Today

Many people often wonder if creating a sensory room is a good investment. We would respond with a wholehearted “yes.” Providing your loved one with a safe space to develop and overcome their sensory challenges is an act of love and caring that has been shown to have significant benefits for children and adults.

At Enabling Devices, we are committed to providing products that encourage people of all ages and abilities to live fulfilling, joy-filled lives. Over the past four decades, we have proudly created products that enable individuals with disabilities to function in the world around them. This includes a wide variety of products that work well in sensory spaces.

Rather than mass-producing products, our trained technicians custom-make one-of-a-kind products in our workshop, giving us complete control over the quality of our products. We work directly with parents, caregivers, schools, hospitals, therapists and children with disabilities to develop and test tools and products that meet various needs and improve quality of life.

Besides selling products for use in sensory spaces, we also provide free sensory room design services to help you create a useful area for your loved one. With our complimentary sensory room design services, we help you pinpoint your design needs and select suitable equipment to create an affordable, functional sensory room that meets the user’s needs. Fill out our Sensory Room Design Questionnaire to get started and receive your free quote!

If you’re ready to incorporate a sensory room into your home or school, we’re ready to help. Browse our wide array of sensory products or contact us today to begin designing your new sensory space!

For many American families, attending live sports events is a great opportunity for fun, recreation and bonding. Yet, for sports fans with autism, a trip to the stadium can be far from enjoyable. Live sporting events typically feature bright lights, loud noises, huge crowds, and all sorts of smells —sensory experiences that may overwhelm and overstimulate and frighten individuals with autism.

Fortunately, in recent years, greater awareness about the needs of people on the autism spectrum have resulted in special programs such as autism-friendly sporting events and other innovations that make attendance at sporting events more comfortable for people with autism and their families.

One of the most significant changes taking hold at stadiums around the country has been the addition of sensory rooms in some stadiums. According to CNN, “The NBA is partnering with nonprofit KultureCity to make 19 arenas “sensory-inclusive” by the start of the 2018-19 season this fall.”

The NFL and NHL are also getting in on the action. Sensory spaces will be added to United Stadium, home of the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks, the Staples Center where the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers play, and the American Airlines Arena, home of the Miami Heat. Sensory rooms already exist at the Quicken Loans Arena, home of the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Golden I Center, home of the Sacramento Kings, Chesapeake Energy Arena, home of the Oklahoma City Thunder, and most recently, at Salt Lake City’s Vivint Smart Home Arena, home of the Utah Jazz.

In 2017 The Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland became the first stadium to create a sensory room for fans with autism and other disabilities. The decision to create a sensory space at the arena came about after the stadium held an “autism night” that (in the experience of one local family) was not truly autism-friendly. According to CNN, “[Thirteen-year-old Carson Belle, who has autism and is non-verbal] was going through security when his speech device set off a metal detector. A security guard told the Belles that their son would have to take it off to continue. As Jeff [Carson’s father] began to take off the device, Carson started head-butting him. The security guard yelled something along the lines of ‘you get a hold of that kid,’ the parents said, deeply upsetting them.”

The Belles shared their story on social media and senior vice president of facility operations, Antony Bonavita got wind of the matter. Bonavita, who also has a son with autism, empathized with the Belles. The event set in motion a partnership between the arena and Kulture City, a nonprofit that, among other things, designs sensory spaces. A year later, the Quicken Loans Arena’s sensory room was open for business.

In addition to providing access to a sensory room where fans can go if they need a break from the action, the arena also provides sensory bags that “include items like fidget toys, a weighted lap pad, and noise-canceling headphones,” reports CBS News. Stadium staff were also trained in how to be sensitive to fans with disabilities.

“The arena staff, which now features 500 trained, full-time assistants, is always on hand to assist in the aisles. Inside the bag, there’s a lanyard. Wearing it immediately lets staff know you may be non-verbal or have sensory disabilities. You’re given a feelings thermometer: If you can’t verbalize your feelings, you can check off boxes on the card and hand it to a staff member,” writes Kristian Winfield of SB Nation.

As the National Autism Society’s President Wendy Fournier told CNN: “It is a really big deal to provide them with the tools that they can use if needed to participate in things that all typical families are able to participate in. It is about inclusion.”

Interested in learning how to create a sensory space for your home or organization? Enabling Devices offers free sensory design services. Just complete our Sensory Room Design Questionnaire and we’ll contact you within 48 hours with expert advice. Planning a fundraising campaign to finance your sensory room? Check out Enabling Devices’ Fundraising Ideas for a slew of great suggestions.

When rain keeps you trapped indoors, keeping the kids occupied can be a challenge. No worries, though. Sensory play will engage kids for hours!

1. Why sensory play?

According to child development experts at PBS Parents, sensory play “helps children develop cognitively, linguistically, socially, emotionally, physically and creatively.”

While all children learn about the world through their senses, sensory play can be especially valuable for children with special needs who may have greater difficulty tolerating and integrating sensory stimuli.  For example, children on the autism spectrum are often uncomfortable with loud noise, bright lights, unfamiliar tastes or smells that they find offensive. Others have strong preferences when it comes to the clothes they wear, because certain textures bother them. Some children on the spectrum are overly- sensitive and react negatively to being touched while other children go out of their way to bump into walls and furniture in order to feel deeper sensations.

Sensory play is also important for children who don’t have full use of all of their senses. According to Wonderbaby.org, a project of Perkins School for the Blind, “It’s important for children who are blind to participate in sensory play because it will help build their other senses and allow for sensations that may be directed by one sense (like sight) to be directed by another (like touch).”

2. What does sensory play look like?

There are so many hands-on activities that can offer enjoyable and educational sensory experiences. Playing in a ball pit, jumping on a trampoline, finger-painting, ceramics, listening to music or baking a cake are all past-times that stimulate the senses. Certain toys are especially conducive to sensory play. For tactile sensory stimulation, Enabling Devices’ textured marble fidget board increases tactile awareness, creates a feeling of calmness and helps with focus and self-regulation. Our sensory-motor busy box stimulates several senses at once! Products such as our cuddly Thera Bear, which can be heated in the microwave, will soothe your child with its calming chamomile aroma.

3. How can I facilitate sensory play at home?

One easy and inexpensive way to encourage sensory play is by creating a sensory box. Use one or more plastic bins and fill them with toys, tactile manipulatives, therapeutic balls, household items and even non-perishable foods with interesting shapes, textures, colors, smells and sounds. Typically the sensory box is lined with a layer of rice, popcorn, pasta, beans, dirt, cereal or sand. The other items in the box can be hidden beneath that layer to create an element of surprise. Add interest by creating themed sensory boxes. For example, boxes with holiday-inspired items, objects with names that all begin with the same letter of the alphabet or that are all the same shape.

4. Create a sensory space

Can’t get enough sensory fun? Consider making your whole basement into a sensory space with folding mats, crash pads, a tunnel climber and our Neptune Sensory Table for sand and water play. Who says you can’t have a day at the beach when it’s raining outside?

Not enough room for the whole shebang? No problem. You can create a great sensory space in a closet or corner of your home. Include products such as the laserjet kaleidoscope or led light illuminators to stimulate vision, interactive musical bubble tubes or somatosensory bamboo chimes to engage children with color, sound and light, and try out laptop fish mat or bead chain curtain for a sensational tactile experience. Want help with designing your sensory space? Call us for a free consultation.

5. Make a mess!

Don’t underestimate the value of making a mess. Children can really benefit from playing with squishy, slimy, foamy and muddy stuff. Try filling a tray with shaving cream, homemade play dough, or Jell-O. With some careful planning, you can create an indoor environment where kids can get messy without trashing your home. Don’t forget to have a blast!