A sensory safe space is a designated area within a school or in the classroom, at home or workplace which can support users’ sensory preferences and needs. It is a space carefully planned to provide sensory stimulation and rest.
Other terms used to describe a sensory space include quiet space, sensory room, calm space, sensory garden, multi-sensory room.
A sensory safe space at school can positively impact on students’ learning and wellbeing when used appropriately.
A sensory space aims to:
~ Support student’s mental health and wellbeing
~ Reduce sensory overload for students who need to calm themselves before learning
~ Provide increased sensory experiences for students who need more stimulation for learning
~ Support the child in becoming aware of how they feel; e.g. hungry, tired, anxious, scared, so they can learn to self-regulate
~ Help the child to calm themselves and learn self-care and resilience
~ Reduce aggression by providing a safe crisis and de-escalation area