SENSES

THE SENSES SENSORY ROOM

A place to pause.
A path back to participation.

A sensory-regulation room is a planned space where students can access supports matched to their needs, with staff guidance. Its purpose is to help students participate in school routines, learning, and relationships.

SENSES proposes clear procedures for access, supervision, student choice, and returning to class. A room’s value depends on how it is used, not how much equipment it contains.

Sensory room with soft seating and sensory equipment
Illustrative room concept, created with AI. Equipment and room design should reflect school-team guidance.
PLAN WITH YOUR SCHOOL OT

What thoughtful use looks like

  1. Agree on the purpose.Identify the school activity the student needs support to join or return to.
  2. Offer choice and connection.Listen to the student and provide calm adult support. Respect how the student communicates comfort or distress.
  3. Follow the agreed plan.Use school-approved procedures and individualized guidance where applicable.
  4. Notice what happens next.Check whether the support helped participation and share observations with the school team.

Access to support should not be a reward. The room should never be used for punishment or seclusion.

Bring support into the classroom ↗