How to Make Your Home Sensory-Safe
If your child is struggling with regulation, self-esteem, sensitivity, and relational connection, it’s important to look into how their environment is impacting them.
You can start by getting into the right mindset: the mindset of understanding the needs underneath your child’s difficulties.
In addition to the deep therapeutic work that I’ve done with hundreds of parents, I find myself answering some of the same questions and providing some of the same suggestions time and time again. There is a common theme that parents come to me with, and there are a few answers that they experience as life-changing, every time I give them. We first tackle relationship, the space, and the schedule.
The Home Environment: You need a place of respite, and so does your child after a tough day with friends, and overwhelming day at school.
Craft a home environment that that meets your schedule needs, craft a space that supports the sensory system, create routines and rituals that are linked with your values and with your child’s abilities, and learn a strategy for creating emotional safety.
Learn more about which sensory systems will be most effective at helping your child feel calm inside my parent resource hub.
Creating a Sensory Safe Environment: Tips for Making Your Home Comfortable for Everyone
For individuals with sensory processing difficulties or disorders, everyday sensory experiences like noise, light, and temperature can be overwhelming and uncomfortable. If you or someone in your household is struggling with sensory issues, creating a sensory safe environment at home can make a big difference in improving their quality of life. In this post, we'll explore some tips for making your home more sensory safe and comfortable for everyone.
Reduce Noise Levels
Noise can be one of the most challenging sensory experiences for kids AND for us parents! Helpful starting places are: using sound-absorbing materials like curtains, carpets, or rugs to reduce noise levels in the house. You can also listen to lofi music without lyrics, play nature sounds, or designate specific spaces where noisiness is allowed, so you can redirect family members if they need to make noise but it’s upsetting others. Consider joining my membership if you want more ideas like this, plus tips on building calming corners and creating sensory-safe spaces inside your home. Although some kids may dislike using these, using noise-cancelling headphones or earplugs can help to block out unwanted noise and create a more calming atmosphere.
Adjust Lighting
Bright or flickering lights can be overwhelming for some individuals. Consider using soft lighting or lamps with dimmer switches to create a soothing atmosphere in your home. Natural light can also be beneficial, so try to let in as much natural light as possible during the day.
Control Temperature
Maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home is essential for creating a sensory safe environment. If you or someone in your household is sensitive to temperature changes, consider using a space heater or a fan to maintain a consistent temperature. Keeping the temperature consistent can also help to reduce stress and anxiety.
Create Designated Spaces
Creating designated spaces for different activities in your home can be helpful for individuals with sensory processing difficulties. For example, a quiet space for reading or a sensory room for relaxation. Use visual cues such as pictures or signs to clearly identify each space, so everyone in the household knows where they can go to feel comfortable and safe.
Remove Clutter
Clutter can be overwhelming and distracting for some individuals. Keep your living space tidy and organized by removing unnecessary items. Consider using storage solutions like bins or baskets to keep items organized and out of sight.
Use Sensory Tools
Sensory tools like weighted blankets, fidget toys, or sensory swings can be helpful for individuals who have sensory processing difficulties. Use these tools to create a calming and comfortable environment. For example, a weighted blanket can provide a sense of security and comfort, while fidget toys can help to relieve stress and anxiety.
Communicate!
Communicate with family members, including your kids! Neurodivergent kids especially benefit from a sense of agency and collaboration around rules, routines, and changes. Show that you respect their input and their innate knowledge of their body’s needs. Communication is key when it comes to creating a sensory safe environment. Talk to other household members about their sensory needs and preferences. By understanding each other's needs, you can work together to create a sensory safe environment that works for everyone.
Want help brainstorming ways that you can implement brain-based, therapist-approved strategies in ways that fit your child’s individual differences? Join my community!
We cover:
Setting Up Your Space: Craft a Sensory-Safe Space Based on Your Family’s Unique Differences.
Setting Up Routines and Rituals: Getting Out the Door, Mealtimes, Nightly Routines, and Kid-Approved Chores
Setting Up Relational Supports: Talking to your child positively about their individual differences. Play, Connection, and Conflict Resolution, Sibling Rivalry, and more.
support for parents of neurodivergent and sensitive kids, online, with a special focus on home design, relationships, and routines!