Why meet the sensory needs of children in education?

“Sensory experiences help children understand their environments and support them to feel safe and secure. A well-developed sensory system is essential for both cognitive and social intelligence and is therefore required for children to become successful learners”.

Children’s sensory systems are finely tuned to gather information from their surroundings, which is then relayed to their nervous system. This information is carefully processed by the nervous system, prompting corresponding response or reaction to their surroundings.

Through sensory experiences, children gain a deeper comprehension of their environment, fostering a sense of safety and security. A robust sensory system plays a pivotal role in nurturing cognitive and social intelligence, therefore forming a vital foundation for children’s success and learners.

Sensory rooms have emerged as integral spaces in various establishments, driven by the recognition of their profound impact on individuals, especially children. These purposefully designed environments cater to the diverse sensory needs of children, providing a wealth of tactile, visual, and auditory stimuli. Through meticulous arrangement of elements like textured surfaces, soothing lighting, and calming sounds, sensory rooms facilitate sensory integration – a critical process in which the brain organizes and makes sense of sensory information. The design therefore is something that must be correct in order for the space to have full potential. At Sense Sensory we have many years of experience in designing varied spaces with the specialist products required to suit the user’s needs.

 https://www.sensesensory.co.uk/sensory-room-design/

In England, for instance, studies have unveiled compelling statistics showcasing the tangible benefits of sensory rooms. A case study conducted in primary schools demonstrated that children who engaged with sensory rooms exhibited notable improvements in mood regulation and emotional well-being. The calming effects of sensory room experiences were particularly pronounced among children with sensory processing challenges or emotional difficulties. These spaces have been found to enhance concentration and focus, thereby positively influencing academic performance.

Furthermore, sensory rooms have addressed the topic of sensory overload and can provide effective relaxation for children with conditions like autism spectrum disorder. By creating an environment where sensory input is carefully controlled and tailored, these rooms empower children to self-regulate and adapt to their surroundings more effectively. This, in turn, contributes to their overall comfort, reduces anxiety, and cultivates a sense of security.

Basically, the provision of sensory rooms within establishments emerges as a proactive approach with many proven advantages. Grounded in empirical evidence and case studies, these spaces contribute not only to immediate well-being but also to the broader educational and developmental journeys of children at the beginning and throughout their life.