Sensory Rooms: Integration for Inclusion

Sensory rooms have become a staple in many schools. They are designed as calming spaces where children can take a break from sensory overload. Here, they can regulate their emotions and return to class ready to learn. The intention is always to support. However, as we enhance our understanding of inclusion, it’s essential to ask: is there a way to support regulation without creating separation?

A Quiet Retreat—But at What Cost?

Imagine a child you care about, perhaps your godson. He starts to feel overwhelmed during a lesson. A teacher gently guides him out of the classroom into the sensory room. It’s peaceful there. He calms down. This apparent solution works—at least in that moment.

But what is he missing while he’s away? A science experiment, a class joke, a group discussion, or a connection with his peers.

Over time, those small missed moments can shape a child’s experience of school. This creates a sense of them being “other” or different, which can impact their overall learning journey.

The Value of Sensory Rooms

The impact these rooms can have is significant. Here are a few key benefits:

• Regulation: Sensory rooms provide tools that help students reset when emotions or sensory input become overwhelming.

• Re-engagement: After spending time in a sensory room, many children return better able to focus and participate in class activities.

  
  

But There’s a Trade-Off

Even well-intentioned strategies can produce unintended consequences:

• Separation: Regular removal from class can lead to feelings of isolation. This makes it harder for a child to feel they belong.

• Stigma: Being sent out—even with kindness—can send a message that their needs are something to be managed elsewhere.

  
  

The Wider Context of Support Needs

These challenges arise in a broader landscape of strain on education systems. In the UK, the education sector is under pressure. Here are some alarming stats:

• Teacher shortages: There are tens of thousands of teachers leaving the profession annually.

• Funding constraints: Many schools operate under tight budgets, leading to stretched resources.

• Mental health: Concerns are growing, not only among students but also among educators and staff.

  
  

In this challenging environment, discovering effective, low-disruption support strategies has never been more critical.

From Removal to Integration: A New Approach

A quiet shift is occurring in some schools. There is a movement away from separating students for support and towards integrating that support within the learning environment itself.

Instead of having a child leave the classroom to reset, schools are exploring innovative sensory regulation tools. These can be placed directly in the classroom or nearby shared spaces. These discreet supports offer calming environments with personalized features. For example, adaptable lighting, soothing audio, and engaging visuals—helping students quickly reset without needing to leave the flow of their day.

The outcome? Less disruption and more belonging.

A Future-Focused Approach

Inclusion is not just about providing the right support; it also involves understanding where that support happens and how it’s integrated into a child’s day.

When sensory needs are met within the shared school environment, several benefits emerge:

• Students remain connected to learning and peer interactions.

• Taking a break does not mean stepping away from the group.

• Regulation becomes part of the daily school life, rather than a reason to leave.

  
  

This inclusive approach can help everyone thrive.

Let’s Make “Time In” the Norm

Sensory rooms have paved the way for supporting neurodivergent learners. But as we continue to learn and innovate, new models are emerging. These models offer the same benefits, with even greater emphasis on presence, inclusion, and belonging.

Every child deserves to feel supported without feeling set apart. By moving towards inclusion, we can create a better environment for all students.

To find out more, contact us at info@cubbie.ie.