Our Sensory Room is Ready!
By Kristen Ferguson | Posted: Thursday August 3, 2023
Rūma Ranigmārie (a peaceful room) is a special place in our school where our tamariki can go when they're feeling dysregulated. This room provides sensory stimulation, a calming space, or an opportunity to rejuvenate - all with the end result of feeling more regulated.
The benefits of a sensory room are endless and will benefit all students, especially those who experience anxiety, stress and those with specified sensory needs. It can provide a safe environment where students can be supported to calm and regulate, therefore optimising learning and participation in the school environment. This room is a great extension to the already established Zones of Regulation language/culture in the school and also an opportunity to put some of the wellbeing strategies taught into play. A small bit of time in Rūma Ranigmārie will reset the brain so that students can return to the mainstreamed area and continue working successfully. It is a safe place for children to go when they’re feeling overwhelmed.
Mrs Ferguson has gone to teach class explaining the purpose of the room, and given each student a tour and a short play to explore the space.
Rūma Ranigmārie is filled with items that have been carefully thought about and purchased. This is not a playroom and all students who enter the room must be accompanied by an adult to ensure the room is respected and cared for. Teachers and Teacher Aides will continue to be trained on how to help children regulate through asking the right questions, and providing the right amount of time and strategies needed to become regulated again.
The room has a variety of options for tamariki to tap into the senses they prefer:
Bouncy ball, balance board and movement cards for those who need a movement break
A calming area with a bean bag, breathing cards, bubble lamp, fibre optic lamp and breathing Karakia
A table with colouring activities, a worry box and a variety of sensory and fidget toys
Rubber mats with a variety of colours and textures that students can walk on for a “sensory walk.”
A variety of puzzles and games
Weighted blanket, weighted shoulder pad, wobble cushions
Sequin board
Fairy lights to add to the calming atmosphere
A conversation area to explore their feelings using the Zones of Regulation and The Size of the Problem
This room will always be a work in progress as things are added to tailor to the needs of our students. There are more things to come to tailor to the taste and smell senses, but if you have any ideas or suggestions, please contact Kristen Ferguson at [email protected].
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