Planning Rationale
To be used in Specialty Schools only and not in all schools. Students with neuro-diverse, needs utilize the Sensorial Space as a safe environment to regulate when over or under stimulated. These rooms usually consist of mats, swings, and other equipment that allows for visual, auditory, and physical stimulation and provide a calming or alerting environment that provide opportunities for students to self regulate.
Design Considerations
Location
Students utilizing this room may be highly sensitive to sound and vibration. Therefore the room shall be located away from any space and/or program that produces loud sounds and vibrations. The students who enter this room need to feel like they are completely separated from the rest of the school in order for them to self regulate. Horizontal and vertical acoustical isolation is required and an acoustical consultant shall be engaged to ensure adequate separations will be achieved.
Room Layout
The layout of the room will depend on the furniture selected/provided by the school and the specific needs of the students. The sensory requirements for this space will be accomplished through furniture and equipment.
- No traditional classroom furniture
- Special attention must be taken concerning the lighting, fire alarm sounds, sound absorption, and acoustics for this space.
- Colors shall be subdued.
- Coordination may be required with a structural engineer for equipment installed in the ceiling or walls.