Sensory rooms have been around for over 50 years. But what are the benefits of these unique spaces?

The brand name, “Snoezelen," is a combination of the Dutch words “snuffelen” (to sniff) and “doezelen” (to doze off, relax). A leader in the sensory room industry, the company, Snoezelen, says sensory rooms are designed environments that contain calming elements such as soothing lights, textured objects, interactive games, tumbling mats, sound systems and more.

The space can be a whole room or even in a corner of the room.

Developed in the 1970s by psychologists Ad Verheul and Jan Hulsegge, the purpose of sensory rooms is to enhance sensory experiences and enjoyment for individuals with intellectual disabilities.  In their sensory room, they incorporated visual, tactile and auditory experiences, according to Snoezelen.

These rooms are now common in schools, hospitals, community centers and more, meeting the specific needs for individuals throughout the day.  

Sensory rooms can help manage an individual’s stress and depression, practice self-regulation, assist with overstimulation, develop body awareness, learn coping mechanisms, reduce stress and repetitive behaviors, lower aggression, enhance focus, increase interaction and work to improve inclusion and social skills.

A 2020 study by Grand Valley State University found that on average, 56% of students became more engaged in classroom activities after participating in sensory room interventions.  

In data conducted during the 2021-22 school year in American public schools, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, there has been an increase in incidents of classroom disruption. Around 56% related to student misconduct, 48% related to rowdiness outside the classroom and another 48% related to disrespect towards teachers and staff.

If sensory rooms were to be implemented in schools, it can help with behavioral problems, especially when students are taking time away from instructors teaching, experts say. The room can provide a calming environment where students can relax and teachers can de-escalate the situation.

In a Lexington-Richland school board meeting on Oct. 28, Rebecca Dilley, principal of Dutch Fork Elementary Academy of Environmental Sciences, spoke to board members about allocating part of the budget to build a sensory room for students.

Dilley discussed how many students at Dutch Fork deal with behavioral problems, taking teaching time away from other students. A sensory room at Dutch Fork can help students learn how to learn their emotions and figure out ways to calm down, she said.

Inside these rooms, students can interact with many calming activities to alleviate stress and engage in soothing lights. For those who struggle with ADHD or have difficulties maintaining focus, sensory rooms can help them concentrate on certain tasks.  These environments can additionally help them learn about their senses and emotions while developing problem-solving skills, tailored to all students’ needs.

Parents and guardians can even create a sensory room for children at home when they are having a difficult day. Simply find a place where you want to set up. From there, you can use large pillows, blankets and mats that you may have already in the home. Therapy balls, weighted blankets, fidget items and more can be included as well.