Definition
A sensory room is a dedicated space designed to provide calming or regulating sensory input, with features like soft lighting, textures, movement equipment, and low noise. They appear in schools, workplaces, airports, and homes.
Why It Matters
A sensory room gives a person a reliable place to regulate before, during, or after overload, which can prevent meltdowns and shutdowns and support participation. Access to one is a meaningful accommodation.
Common Misconception
A sensory room is not a reward or a punishment, and it is not a time-out space. It is a regulation resource, and its value comes from being available when a person needs it, not used to manage behavior.