Example of a Sensory Integration Room
by CARAT Commander on Flickr

In part one of this series, we examined the benefits of sensory rooms for children with special needs and examined the different ways sensory rooms are used. In this second and final part, we will look at some ideas for building a sensory room or area in your home or school.

If money is not a consideration, there are companies that will come to your home and build a beautiful sensory room for your child. Many companies sell expensive items to stock your sensory room with. The focus of this post is designing a sensory room that will not break the bank.

PLANNING YOUR SENSORY ROOM

Credit: Steve Jurvetson on Flickr

Before diving into your sensory project, do some research. Talk to your child’s medical providers about the type of sensory stimulation that would be most helpful for your child. As a parent, you will have ideas of what would help your child also. You also need to consider what is age appropriate for your child.

After you have made a list of your child needs, get ideas of the types of things included in sensory rooms from companies that build sensory rooms. (See list below)

Next, consider your space. Can you a lot a whole room for this purpose? If not, figure out the amount of space you have available.

Finally, determine your budget. Building a sensory room or area is expensive but you can shop around and find items at lower costs.

THINGS TO INCLUDE IN A SENSORY ROOM OR AREA

I have listed a variety of items included in different sensory rooms below. This

Credit: Chris-Parfitt on Flickr

list is just to give you ideas. Some items may not be appropriate for your child.

Black out blinds
Beanbags
Fiber optic lighting
Foam framed mirrors
Disco balls
LED interactive lighting
Bubble tube
Weighted blankets
Floor cushions
Wall cushions
CD player or iPod dock
CDS of nature sounds or other calming music
Ball pits
Vibrating cushions or pillows
Aromatherapy unit
Swing
Hammock
Tunnels
Black walls
Chew toys
Exercise balls
Rocker or balance board

Trampoline

WAYS TO SAVE MONEY

Look at your local bargain store or charity shop and see if they offer items that are similar to what you need but cheaper than traditional sensory items. Here

Credit: Shari on Flickr

are some examples

A rocking chair may be appropriate for your child instead of specialized rocker.
Use gym or yoga mats instead of padded flooring.
Regular exercise balls may work instead of specialized OT balls.
Look at Lava lamps, fairy lights or other lighting that you can use instead of LED lighting.
Use a bunch of large cushions or pillows instead of padding.
Instead of a specialized trampoline, a small indoor trampoline may be used.