Regulation Rendezvous: Even More Classroom Calming Sensory Spaces

Schools are sensory-rich environments and dealing with the myriad of sensory information within the school setting can be very challenging for a student with autism. When a student with autism experiences sensory overload, they may get overwhelmed resulting in behaviors or meltdowns. One strategy to avoid or help a student recover from a meltdown includes the use of a calming sensory space. Today's Regulation Rendezvous will provide suggestions for the appropriate use of a calming sensory space in the classroom.

• A calming sensory space should be a specific location within the classroom where the student feels safe, comfortable, and typically has minimal alerting sensory input such as decreased lighting and noise.

Heather Clark
Saville Elementary, Mad River

Jessica Wright
Smith Elementary, Oakwood

Rylie Jarrett
Stevenson Elementary, Mad River

YPH Classroom
East Elementary, Eaton

Ashlee Nicols
Brookville Elementary, Brookville

Maggie Brackman
Northwood Elementary, Northmont

Betsy Seger
Miami East Junior High, Miami East

Jolynne Rodgers
Mad River ECEC, Mad River

Lauren Dickey
Indian Riffle Elementary, Kettering

• It may contain items to facilitate self-calming such as a beanbag chair or a weighted blanket.

Rebecka Stricker
Springcreek Primary, Piqua

Rylie Jarrett
Stevenson Elementary, Mad River

• The location of a calming sensory space can be within a designated area of the classroom or in an enclosed area with less sensory stimuli. 

YPH Classroom
East Elementary, Eaton

Debi Gnau
Mad River ECEC, Mad River

Deanna Hicks
East Elementary, Eaton

Megan Logano
Clark County ESC

Lauren Dickey
Indian Riffle Elementary, Kettering

Rhonda Brunk
Trotwood ELC, Trotwood

• The use of a calming sensory space can be recommended by a staff member or initiated by the student.

Haley Urschel
Perrin Woods Elementary, Springfield

• Going to a calming sensory space should be viewed in a positive way and not associated with punishment or “time out”.

Rebekah Foust
Mad River ECEC, Mad River

• A calming sensory space is a place where a student can plan or review daily events, assist in managing stressors from the environment, or regain control if a meltdown has occurred. Visual supports can be helpful.

Granville Bastin
Preble County ESC

YPH Classroom
East Elementary, Eaton

For more examples of Calming Sensory Spaces don't miss our previous posts:

Classroom Calming Sensory Space

Calming Corner

More Calming Sensory Spaces