5 Myths of Sensory Rooms for New Parents with a Special Needs Child
Providing a Helping Hand for Special Needs Children and Families.
Are you a new parent of a special needs child with a sensory processing disorder or a sensory sensitivity and are interested in sensory rooms? We explain five of the most common myths about sensory rooms to put your mind at ease.
MYTH: Sensory rooms won’t benefit my child with a sensory sensitivity.
Sensory rooms are very beneficial for your child with a sensory sensitivity.
According to St Jude’s, benefits include
- Improved focus
- Develop communication skills
- Encourages socializing
- Relieves stress
- Improves balance and movement
MYTH: You have to spend a lot of money to create or visit a sensory room.
You do not need to spend a lot of money to create a sensory room. You can use things around your house such as dried rice or beans or you can get most supplies from the dollar store.
Here are some supply ideas
- Bins
- Kinetic sand
- Star projector/string lights
- Speaker and calm music
- Dry rice/dry beans
- Pom poms
- Fidget items
- Slime
- Pillows/blankets/chairs/tables
Public sensory rooms are usually free or a small fee.
MYTH: Sensory rooms are permanent and I don’t have room for it.
They do not need to be permanent. They can be a room, walk in closet, or even a corner of your house! Sensory rooms do not need to be fancy it is just a safe place or area for your child. When they are done using it, everything can be cleaned up easily.
We do recommend that the area is quiet with dimmed lighting. It should not have clutter or unnecessary objects. This will help your child focus and feel calm.
MYTH: My child has to sit still in the sensory room and that’s impossible.
The sensory room is a safe, comfortable, and fun place for your child. They do not have to sit still. It is made for them so it is okay if they feel best standing or moving around.
MYTH: Sensory rooms are too messy.
Sensory rooms do not need to be messy or have items that create mess. Amazon has a plethora of sensory toys and items that aren’t messy. If you do use messy items such as slime, we advise laying a plastic table cover underneath so you can clean the mess with ease.
If you want to make your own DIY sensory room or don’t know where to start, please read our blog “DIY Sensory Room in 5 Easy Steps.”
Why should my child go to Tender Care PPEC?
Tender Care PPEC provides care for medically complex and fragile children from birth to 21 years of age in a daycare-like environment staffed with nurses, CNAs, and therapists. We are the first independently owned PPEC in the State of Florida with our initial center opening in 1988. This means we have an abundance of experience and knowledge in providing loving care to this special pediatric population. We have 6 Tender Care PPEC centers throughout Florida, with our newest facility located in Lake Park.
Our goal is to enhance the development of each child through collaborative relationships between families, physicians, nurses, and therapists. This holistic approach to care is carried out in an environment that allows the child to engage in social interactions with their peers. This results in thriving children, well-positioned to achieve their greatest potential. We also offer transportation at no cost and provide nutritious meals throughout the day.
What sets us apart is that we care for and treat every child like family. We have passion in our hearts for our children and a desire to see them succeed.
*This is not medical advice, always consult with your child’s doctor before making any changes to their lifestyle.