When it comes to supporting sensory needs, many people think of schools, hospitals, museums, or other public spaces that are intentionally designed to be sensory-friendly. But what about creating a similar environment at home? A sensory-friendly home can help learners feel more comfortable while learning, socializing, and practicing independence in their own space.
In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step through creating a sensory-friendly environment at home, ensuring that everyone in your family can enjoy a pleasant and nurturing space.
Research estimates that 10-55% of learners without formal diagnoses have differences in the way that they process sensory information from their environment. This number jumps to 40-88% for individuals with diagnoses such as ADHD, OCD, or Autism.
Click here to jump straight to the 5 steps for making a sensory-friendly home environment.
Introduction to Sensory-Friendly Environments
A sensory-friendly environment is a space designed to minimize overwhelming sensory input and promote comfort and accessibility for individuals with diverse sensory needs. These environments are particularly essential for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing disorders, and other sensory sensitivities. Best practices for creating sensory-friendly environments engineer sensory stimuli in a way that empowers neurodivergent visitors. By creating a calming atmosphere, sensory-friendly environments help reduce sensory overload and promote overall well-being.
Sensory-friendly environments can be created in various physical spaces, including homes, schools, and public areas. The goal is to support participation and engagement in daily life, leisure activities, and social interactions. Each environment is tailored to the unique sensory needs of the individual, providing a personalized and inclusive space.
By creating a sensory-friendly environment, individuals can better self-regulate and manage their sensory experiences, improving their overall quality of life. These environments are not only beneficial for individuals with sensory sensitivities but also for those who prefer a calm and organized setting. Sensory-friendly design is appreciated by all visitors, not just those with sensory sensitivities. Whether at home or in public spaces, sensory-friendly environments make a significant difference in supporting participation and enhancing well-being.
What is Sensory Processing?
Sensory processing is how our brain takes in and makes sense of information from our senses. Our brain then sorts and organizes the information, allowing us to respond appropriately to the environment. There are five well-known (touch, smell, taste, sound, sight) sensory systems and three lesser-known “hidden” (proprioception, vestibular, interoception) sensory systems. These eight systems include:
- Tactile (touch)
- Olfactory (smell)
- Gustatory (taste)
- Auditory (sound)
- Visual (sight)
- Proprioception (body awareness)
- Vestibular (balance and body orientation)
- Interoception (internal body sensations and emotional state)
People with sensory processing challenges experience either too much or too little stimulation through these senses and have difficulty making sense of that information. Autistic people often experience sensory processing differences that manifest as hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to sensory stimuli. Unlike individuals with sensory processing challenges, sensory processing generally occurs automatically for most people, making it easier for them to learn and socialize.
Understanding the Need for Sensory-Supportive Environments
It’s important to understand the different responses to sensory input when creating a supportive environment at home. When our sensory systems are overloaded, managing emotions, focusing attention, and controlling behavior becomes difficult. Sensory processing differences can affect how individuals experience and react to their surroundings, influencing their feelings and actions.
Environmental factors can serve as barriers to participation, and it is crucial to develop strategies that adapt environments to support sensory processing and overall engagement.
Individuals with sensory processing differences are often more or less sensitive to each of the eight sensory systems mentioned above.
- Hypersensitivity (over-responsiveness) refers to being more sensitive to sensory input than others. This may look like avoiding sensory experiences because a person is extra sensitive to the input in the environment. For example, they might dislike being touched, get distracted by quiet noises others don’t notice, or have difficulty tolerating strong smells or loud sounds.
- Hyposensitivity (under-responsiveness) refers to being less sensitive to sensory input than others. They seek out sensory experiences because they are not as sensitive to the input in the environment. For instance, a person who is hyposensitive might enjoy deep pressure, frequently spin or move quickly, or have a high pain tolerance.
It’s important to note that sensory differences are not one-size-fits-all. It’s common for people to have a mix of these experiences, like being very sensitive to touch but less sensitive to smell. These differences should be noted in each sensory processing area to help guide home decision-making.
The Science Behind Environmental Influence on Sensory Processing
Understanding our biological responses and the existing scientific theories can help us better understand sensory processing. How we react to our environment can also affect our development and behavior.
The importance of sensory-friendly environments in promoting accessibility, well-being, and emotional success cannot be overstated.
Biological Basis
The location, mechanisms, and chemical basis of sensory processing continue to be explored. However, some differences in sensory processing have been explored biologically. Sensory overload occurs when an intense sensory input overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope, often leading to anxiety and communication difficulties. Different reactions to sensory stimuli can affect participation in various activities, emphasizing the importance of understanding sensory stimuli in creating supportive environments for neurodivergent individuals. Your fight-or-flight response, a process from the sympathetic nervous system, kicks in to let your body know that something in the environment is very stressful. Some people might react defensively or try to escape, showing they don’t feel safe and may need support to regulate.
When the brain is overloaded with information, our attention and focus are negatively impacted, which impacts our ability to use executive functioning skills. For example, our ability to problem-solve in the moment or maintain emotional control may be affected.
Sensory Processing Theory
Dunn’s Model of Sensory Processing is one way to understand differences in how we react to the environment. This theory explains how people respond to sensory input based on their unique thresholds and how they regulate in response to the sensory experience. People can have high or low thresholds, which means they need more or less stimulation to react. They use different strategies to cope with the experience, either by passively accepting it or by actively changing the environment.
- Sensation Seeking – Someone who actively looks for ways to get sensory input. This might look like enjoying loud and busy environments or looking for thrill-seeking activities.
- Sensation Avoiding – Someone who actively avoids experiences that may overwhelm the individual, such as running errands during less busy times of the day or looking for solitary activities.
- Sensation Sensitivity – Someone who is more sensitive to sensory input and does not try to change the environment. This might look like appearing distracted or reacting to bright lights and loud noises.
- Low Registration – Someone who is less likely to notice sensory input and does not make changes to the environment. They may appear uninterested or slower to respond due to missing environmental cues.
Differences in sensory processing are often evaluated through observation and checklists when determining individualized needs. Participants in a study indicated that the sensory environment significantly influenced their children’s participation in daily activities. We need to focus on addressing the learner’s preferences and challenges rather than focusing on the etiology or cause.
The Role of Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy plays a significant role in creating sensory-friendly environments, as it focuses on enabling individuals to participate in daily activities and occupations. Occupational therapists work closely with individuals to identify their sensory needs and develop strategies to support their participation in various environments.
One of the key interventions in occupational therapy is sensory integration, which involves providing a multi-sensory environment to help individuals process and integrate sensory information. This can include the use of sensory balls, swings, and fidget toys to address sensory processing difficulties.
Occupational therapists also collaborate with parents, caregivers, and other professionals to create a comprehensive support system for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Caregivers mentioned that routines and preparation improved their children’s success in participating in desired activities. The goal is to promote independence, self-regulation, and participation in daily life by creating a sensory-friendly environment.
By addressing sensory needs and creating a sensory-friendly environment, occupational therapy can make a significant difference in an individual’s ability to participate and engage in daily activities. This service is essential for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing disorders, and other sensory sensitivities, providing the support needed to thrive in various settings.
5 Steps to Creating a Sensory-Friendly Home Environment
Creating a sensory-friendly home environment involves several thoughtful steps to ensure comfort and accessibility for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Here are five essential steps to guide you:
- Identify Sensory Needs and Preferences: The first step is to understand the individual’s sensory needs and preferences. This involves observing their reactions to different sensory experiences and noting what they find comfortable or distressing. Engaging in open discussions and using checklists can help identify specific sensory triggers and preferences.
- Assess the Physical Space: Next, assess the physical space of your home to identify potential sensory triggers. Look for elements like loud noises, bright lights, and strong smells that might cause sensory overload. Involve the individual in this process to ensure their specific needs are considered.
- Implement Sensory-Friendly Strategies: Implement strategies to create a sensory-friendly environment. This can include using noise-canceling headphones to reduce auditory input, weighted blankets for deep pressure, and comfortable seating options like bean bags. These tools help create a calming atmosphere and support sensory regulation.
- Create a Calming Atmosphere: Use elements like nature sounds, natural light, and soothing visual stimuli to promote relaxation. Incorporating these elements can help create a calming atmosphere that reduces sensory overload and enhances well-being.
- Establish a Daily Routine: Establish a daily routine that includes quiet time, sensory breaks, and opportunities for sensory seeking and self-regulation. Consistent routines help individuals anticipate and manage sensory input, making it easier to navigate daily life.
Additional strategies may include using acoustic panels to reduce echo, providing a variety of textures and tastes, and incorporating sensory-friendly toys and tools. It is essential to involve the individual in the process, allowing them to take control and make choices about their space. By following these steps, you can create a sensory-friendly home environment that promotes comfort, accessibility, and well-being.
Step 1: Determine Specific Sensory Needs
Before making adjustments to your home environment, it’s important to understand your learner’s sensory profile. This can be done by observing and recording your learner’s different reactions to sensory experiences in the environment. Take note of sensory experiences that are both comfortable and uncomfortable.
Ask your learners specific questions and examples about what they enjoy and what causes them distress. The Sensational Brain has a helpful checklist that can be used for free to help guide your discussion about sensory experiences at home. It may be helpful to consult with your learner’s care team (e.g., occupational therapist, psychologist, coach, or other specialist) to learn more information about your child’s sensory responses in different settings in addition to the home. Individuals with autism spectrum disorder and other disabilities face unique challenges in sensory environments, affecting their participation in daily activities and requiring tailored strategies from parents and caregivers.
Step 2: Assess Your Home Environment
With a notebook, go through each room of your home and identify the specific sensory experiences throughout. Your learners should be actively engaged in this process, as they may be able to provide specific examples of sensations that are pleasant or bother them in each environment. This is also a great way to practice self-advocacy with your learner. Additionally, consider the importance of creating sensory friendly spaces in your home to accommodate individuals with sensory sensitivities.
Step 3: Consider Possible Adjustments
After collecting more specific information on your learner’s sensory experiences in the home, review areas that cause distress and brainstorm potential changes. Below are some general ideas for adjustments that can be explored:
- Sights – Avoid fluorescent lights, which can be harsh and flicker unpredictably. It may help to install dimmer switches to adjust light intensity as needed. Ensure the lighting is soft and warm. Blackout curtains can be used to control the lighting in rooms. Reducing clutter in the home can reduce distractions and make the environment more calm.
- Sound—Use rugs, curtains, and other soft furnishings in large rooms to dampen the noise. Explore noise machines (e.g., white noise) that can mask disruptive noises in the environment. Create quiet zones or safe spaces where your learner can retreat when overwhelmed. Explore options for comfortably fitting, noise-canceling headphones so your learner can have more agency in choosing when to limit noise.
- Textures – Use soft, non-irritating fabrics for furniture and bedding. Explore various fabric types to find the most comfortable material for your learner. Provide a variety of different, enjoyable textures to explore, like fuzzy rugs, smooth pillows, or fidget items.
- Smells—Avoid strong, artificial scents like air fresheners, essential oils, and perfumes. If needed, air purifiers can reduce strong odors. Ventilation in the home will also be important when cooking or using strongly scented products (e.g., laundry detergent, lotions). Explore what smells are comforting and stick to using those in the environment.
- Tastes—Mealtime can be challenging and stressful for individuals sensitive to different flavors. Meals can be simplified by avoiding strong flavors, using fresh ingredients, and separating foods. Keep a record of liked and disliked flavors and ingredients to help with future meal planning. Plan a weekly menu with your learner to get their input and plan when new meals can be tried.
Just as with sensory friendly events, making these adjustments ensures that everyone can participate comfortably in their home environment. Families with children with autism have reported that their children’s unusual responses to sensory stimuli restricted participation in daily living activities.
Step 4: Choose One or Two Changes for the Home to Start
In an effort to make sure changes are done gradually, choose two sensory-friendly changes that can be made in the home. These changes should focus on the situations causing the most stress and be chosen with input from the learner.
For example, if your learner is sensitive to bright light, you might decide to switch to warm-toned lighting together. You could also make the main lights in the kitchen, living room, and bedrooms dimmable. You may also decide to install blackout curtains in the bedrooms to better control the amount of light coming in on sunny days.
Understanding and addressing sensory sensitivity is crucial for enhancing children’s participation in various environments, especially for those with ASD.
Step 5: Make a Plan for Implementation and Follow-up
With the help of your learner, map out the timeline for these changes. Ensure that everyone in the home is involved in the planning. For example, have your learner help pick out the new lights, dimmers, and curtains at the store. Have a date in mind for the changes to be completed.
Once all the changes have been made, explicitly plan how you will follow up on the effectiveness of your changes. It might be helpful to continue to take note of your learner’s responses to the changes and any feedback they might have in the following days and weeks. Your notes will be helpful to review and consider when making changes to your plan or introducing new changes to other aspects of the environment.
Step 6: Repeat the Process
By this point, you should have a sense of whether the changes were helpful, need to be revised, or should be changed completely. No matter how effective your adjustments have been, continue to only make one or two more changes at a time. This way, tracking how well each new change works will be easier. Consistency in sensory experiences is crucial, as engaging in the same activities can significantly affect a child’s behavior and ability to engage positively.
3 Additional Tips for Success
When considering ways to make your home sensory-friendly, there are additional steps you can take to increase the chance that modifying the home will have positive outcomes for your learner. Creating a calmer and more organized environment can improve focus for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Below are some additional tips for success to consider.
Tip 1: Involve Everyone in the Home
Everyone in the family or who regularly visits the home should be taught about sensory supports and how to use them. This ensures everyone is on the same page and feels better equipped to support someone experiencing sensory overload. Additionally, providing various resources and services that enhance the learning environment is crucial for addressing specific needs and fostering an inclusive atmosphere.
Tip 2: Regularly Reassess
Keep observing and checking in with your learner about their sensory experiences at home. Preferences can change over time, and something comforting today, like a smell or texture, might not be preferred in the future.
It may help to reassess your changes at a fixed timeframe, such as every other month. Alternatively, you may choose to only reevaluate when you notice that your learner is experiencing increased distress. Either way, it is important to remain flexible and adjust to your learner’s changing sensory needs. Making these adjustments is often supported by the resources and backing available to you, emphasizing the importance of such support in creating a conducive environment.
Tip 3: Changes Should be Consistent and Comprehensive
Modifying the home environment is a great way to develop an awareness of sensory triggers and make the home a safer place. Sensory overload can still occur despite our efforts when other stressors are present. When navigating sensory overload with your learner, ask yourself some of the following questions to help provide support in the moment:
- How can I reduce sensory input in the environment?
- Are there sensory supports I can provide?
- How can I reduce demands on my learners until they regain sensory safety?
Sensory tools, including stress balls, can assist students in self-regulation and help them maintain focus throughout learning activities.
When making changes to the environment, it’s important to remember other tricks and strategies that can help during times of sensory overload. Maintain typical activities, visual supports, and routines that you have previously found helpful for your family. A variety of other sensory-friendly strategies, such as sensory breaks, fidgets, and participation in other interventions, can more comprehensively provide the support your learner needs.
3 Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake 1: Not Individualizing the Approach
There is no single solution that works for everyone, so finding the right strategies for your learner may involve some trial and error. Each learner has different preferences for things like noise levels, lighting adjustments, and visual supports. Regularly check in with your learners to make sure they’re comfortable in the modified space and keep the changes consistent and predictable.
Mistake 2: Making Too Many Changes at Once
As you notice what in the environment causes sensory overload, you might feel more motivated to start making changes. However, be careful not to make too many changes all at once. It can be difficult to figure out which strategies are helpful when you’re trying several at the same time. Also, too many changes at once can make the environment feel unpredictable.
Mistake 3: Missed Opportunities for Self-Advocacy
Learners can develop self-advocacy skills by actively exploring their sensory needs and suggesting changes to make their environment more comfortable. When learners are more involved in decisions about their support needs, they might feel more confident advocating for themselves in other places, such as school, work, or the community.
Additional Resources and Tools
Executive functioning skills such as emotional regulation, problem-solving, and self-monitoring play an important role in managing and responding to sensory overload. Difficulties with sensory processing can impact your learner’s ability to access executive functioning skills until they feel safe and calm again. The more you practice and build these skills, the better you manage sensory overload across the home, school, and community environments. Understanding the impacts of sensory environments on participation in daily activities is crucial for addressing any sensory issue your learner may face.
- Visit the Executive Functioning Resource Hub for more information about these specific areas of executive functioning. You can explore new strategies to try at home when your learner becomes overwhelmed. For example, the Stop-Think-Act method could be used at home when your learner becomes overstimulated.
- Not sure which executive functioning skills your learner may need support with? Complete the free Executive Functioning Assessment to learn more about areas of strength and weakness. Emotional regulation, problem-solving, and self-monitoring are three key areas to look for strengths and challenges in when brainstorming the next steps for helping your learner with sensory differences.
- If you’re looking for personalized support to help manage sensory needs and enhance executive functioning skills at home, consider exploring our neurodivergent-affirming executive function coaching. Our experienced coaches provide practical, individualized guidance for neurodivergent teens, adults, and families.
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
Sensory processing is how we understand and manage information from touch, smell, taste, hearing, sight, body awareness, body orientation, and internal sensation systems. Some people experience greater sensitivity to sensory experiences, while others are less sensitive to the same experiences. Neurodivergent individuals may experience differences in their sensory responses, impacting their focus, regulation, and behavior. Changes to the home environment can help the home feel more comfortable and less overstimulating. A sensory-friendly home environment helps learners safely learn and live independently, which can be created by:
- Determining specific sensory needs
- Assessing your home environment
- Consider making changes to the environment
- Reevaluate regularly
Understanding the importance of creating a sensory-friendly home environment is crucial for fostering inclusivity and enabling participation in meaningful daily activities.
Making a sensory-friendly environment works best when everyone in the home is involved in the process, changes are regularly reassessed, and changes are consistent and comprehensive. It’s important to customize the approach to your learner’s individualized needs, make small changes at a time, and try different strategies to enhance sensory regulation skills.
Further Reading
- Cleveland Clinic (2023) – How to Manage (and Even Overcome) Sensory Overload
- Develop Learn Grow (2024) – The 8 Sensory Systems Explained – Occupational Therapy Intro
- Dunn (2007) — Supporting Children to Participate Successfully in Everyday Life by Using Sensory Processing Knowledge
- Neurodivergent Insights (2024) – The Power of Sensory Regulation: Unleashing Well-being
- Pfeiffer, May-Benson, & Bodison (2018) – State of the Science of Sensory Integration Research with Children and Youth
- Sensational Brain – Sensory Symptoms Checklist: Home Version
- Life Skills Advocate – Emotional Regulation & ADHD: What You Need to Know
- Life Skills Advocate – Practicing Real-World Self-Advocacy: A Guide for Neurodivergent Individuals
- Life Skills Advocate – Executive Functioning 101 Resource Hub
- Life Skills Advocate – Executive Functioning Assessment
- Life Skills Advocate – Stop, Think, Act: How to Practice Emotional Control Skills With Your Teen