Before creating a sensory space in the classroom, or at home, you should consider the goals you have for the space. A discovery sensory space is like a calming sensory space, but the tools and solutions focus on encouraging exploration of different textures and spaces.
Sensory Spaces in the Classroom
Sensory spaces serve as an outlet for students who may be feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated. It’s a place where they can find tools and solutions that provide specific sensory input which may help them to self regulate and calm down.
Read More: Must-Haves for a Calming Sensory Space
Read More: Creating a Focused Studying Sensory Space
Tools & Solutions for a Discovery Sensory Space
These ideas for tools and solutions could help you to create an engaging and useful Discovery Sensory Space in your classroom or home. Give your young learners tools they can use to organize and work through sensory processing challenges. Some students are sensory over responders so may need practice on reducing sensory overload with touch (tactile defensives), while others are sensory under responders who may need tools that provide extra sight, sound or touch input to maximize learning.
No matter the challenge or need, a Discovery Space gives the opportunity for all learners to explore additional sensory input in a fun and safe manner.
More Sensory Space Tools and Inspiration
Looking for more ways to engage and aid your student as they learn? Check out the Special Needs category page to see what’s new. Also be sure to visit the Sensory Spaces tag page to see more lists of useful tools for varying age groups and sensory needs.
