What Is a Sensory-Friendly Environment?

Creating Comfortable Spaces for All

Have you ever wondered what it means to create a sensory-friendly environment? For many, the concept might sound unfamiliar, but its impact is far-reaching. A sensory-friendly environment minimizes overwhelming sensory input, offering comfort and accessibility to individuals with diverse sensory needs. These spaces benefit everyone—from children and adults with sensory sensitivities to those who simply prefer a calmer, more organized setting.

In this blog, we’ll explore the elements of a sensory-friendly environment, practical tips for creating one, and how you can start making changes today.

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What is a Sensory-Friendly Environment?

A sensory-friendly environment is a space thoughtfully designed to reduce sensory discomfort and promote calmness. It considers all eight senses:

• Sight (visual stimuli)
• Hearing (auditory stimuli)
• Smell (olfactory stimuli)
• Taste (gustatory stimuli)
• Touch (tactile stimuli)
• Vestibular (balance and spatial awareness)
• Proprioception (internal body awareness)
• Interoception (awareness of internal body functions, like hunger or heartbeat)

By addressing these senses, sensory-friendly environments aim to create inclusive spaces that are comfortable, calming, and accessible for all individuals, regardless of their sensory preferences or needs.

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Why Sensory-Friendly Environments Matter

Improving Accessibility

Sensory-friendly environments are essential for people with sensory processing challenges, such as those with:

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
• ADHD
• PTSD
• Anxiety disorders

These individuals often experience heightened sensitivities to stimuli, such as loud noises, bright lights, or strong smells. A sensory-friendly environment reduces these triggers, allowing them to feel more at ease.

Enhancing Everyday Experiences

Even individuals without sensory sensitivities benefit from these spaces. A calmer, more organized environment can improve focus, reduce stress, and create a welcoming atmosphere for all. For example, parents with young children, older adults, and even neurotypical individuals often appreciate the thoughtful design of sensory-friendly environments.

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Transforming Your Space: Tips for Creating a Sensory-Friendly Environment

Creating a sensory-friendly environment doesn’t require a massive budget or complete renovation. Small, intentional adjustments can make a significant difference.

Lighting

• Replace harsh, fluorescent lights with softer, dimmable lighting.
• Use natural light where possible to create a warm and calming atmosphere.
• Offer tools like sunglasses or visors for individuals with heightened visual sensitivities.

Sound

• Minimize background noise by turning down music or muting unnecessary announcements.
• Provide noise-cancelling headphones for individuals who need them.
• Install soundproofing materials like carpets, curtains, or acoustic panels to reduce echo and noise.

Quiet Zones

• Designate a quiet space with comfortable seating, sensory-friendly toys, and calming tools like weighted lap pads or fidget items.
• Clearly label this area and make it accessible to all ages.

Scents

• Create scent-free zones by eliminating strong fragrances from candles, cleaning products, and perfumes.
• Use neutral, hypoallergenic cleaning supplies to accommodate sensitivities.

Decluttering

• Keep spaces organized and free of visual clutter.
• Simplify layouts and signage to reduce overstimulation.

Seating and Accessibility

• Provide a variety of seating options, including chairs, benches, and accessible spaces for mobility aids.
• Ensure clear pathways to avoid congestion and allow easy navigation.

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Research Supporting Sensory-Friendly Environments

Research emphasizes the importance of sensory-friendly environments for enhancing accessibility and well-being. For example, a study by Heidi Morgan (Connections Between Sensory Sensitivities in Autism, 2019) found that creating these spaces not only improves quality of life for neurodivergent individuals but also increases inclusivity and accessibility for people with mental health conditions and sensory processing disorders.

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Sensory Friendly Solutions: Training and Resources

Looking to create a sensory-friendly environment but don’t know where to start? Sensory Friendly Solutions offers a comprehensive All Access Training Membership, designed to guide you through every step of the process.

Membership Benefits:

• Access to Sensory Friendly 101 and industry-specific courses.
• Over 20 guides, checklists, and downloadable resources for sensory-friendly initiatives.
• Expert-led insights into building inclusive spaces for all ages and abilities.

Watch this short video from our founder, Christel Seeberger, to learn more about the value of this membership and how it can help transform your space.

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Explore More Resources

Take the next step in your sensory-friendly journey with these helpful blogs:

• How to Create a Sensory-Friendly Event
• 10 Ways to Make Tourism Sensory-Friendly
• Autism Hour vs. Sensory-Friendly Shopping

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Sensory-Friendly Environments vs. Events and Experiences

It’s important to understand the difference between a sensory-friendly environment and other sensory-friendly concepts, such as events and experiences. While these terms are often used interchangeably, they address unique aspects of inclusivity and accessibility.

Sensory-Friendly Events

These are existing events, such as concerts, plays, or festivals, that are modified to accommodate individuals with sensory sensitivities. Adjustments may include:

• Lowering sound levels.
• Reducing harsh lighting or strobes.
• Creating quiet areas for breaks.

The goal is to ensure everyone, regardless of sensory needs, can enjoy and participate in the event comfortably. Find out more in our blog: How to Create Sensory-Friendly Events

Sensory-Friendly Experiences

Sensory-friendly experiences go beyond individual events to create an inclusive approach to everyday activities, such as:

• A shopping trip.
• A visit to a zoo or museum.
• Recreational activities like swimming or hiking.

These experiences often involve:

• Clear communication about sensory accommodations (e.g., signage or online notices).
• Flexible scheduling to allow participation during quieter times.
• Staff training to understand and support diverse sensory needs.
• Keep learning in our blog: Unveiling the Power of Sensory-Friendly Experiences

How They Differ

While a sensory-friendly environment focuses on creating a calming and accessible physical space, sensory-friendly events and experiences involve broader considerations. They emphasize modifying activities, interactions, and schedules to make participation enjoyable for everyone.

Understanding these distinctions allows for a more comprehensive approach to promoting inclusivity in both physical spaces and social settings.

Ready to Create Sensory-Friendly Spaces?

Take the first step in your sensory-friendly journey today!

• Enroll in Our Sensory Friendly 101 Course: Learn the fundamentals of creating sensory-friendly environments with practical tips and actionable strategies. This is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to make a meaningful difference.

• Sign Up for All Access Training: Gain unlimited access to all our courses, guides, checklists, and resources. For one low price, you’ll get everything you need to create inclusive spaces for all ages and abilities: Get Sensory Friendly Training

• Watch a Message From Our Founder: Hear from Christel Seeberger, the founder of Sensory Friendly Solutions, as she shares her mission and vision for a more inclusive world.