Creating Safe Sensory Spaces at Camp

What is a sensory-friendly space?
This is a place where children, youth,
and even adults can go when in need of a place to calm down or work off
energy to help us regain equilibrium. Usually started for children on the
autism spectrum, many of us benefit from a place to get away from the
bustle, sights, smells, and sounds of a busy camp environment.

What kinds of spaces can we use?
Options include a corner of a meeting
or dining room, back of the chapel, a quiet but not isolated hallway, or a designated room. Larger
camps may need more than one such space. If you can’t dedicate space for a corner, start with fidget
bags, weighted stuffed animals, and noise-canceling headphones.

How should we equip our sensory spaces?

● Décor – Use pleasant, soothing colors. Pick a faith-based theme. Allow room to move around.
Create a quiet corner using a fabric tent or fort structure. Avoid thresholds – make it accessible.

● Lighting – Natural light is best. Find alternatives to fluorescent lights. Tiny LED lights are fine.

● Sound – Avoid noisy locations. Use carpet or and soft surfaces to absorb sound.

● Reflection – paper for coloring or journaling, soft music with headphones, calming photos.

● Storage – Secure open shelves and arrange to not tempt climbers. Include lockable space.

● Seating – Offer bean bag chairs, floor pillows, covered inner tubes, exercise balls, or soft rockers.

● Sensory objects: what you select depends on the purpose and use of the room. If this is to be a
quiet space, pick calming options. If you want to provide all types of input and have the space, add
use brighter colors and add equipment for bouncing, swinging, rolling, sliding, and pushing.

• Touch – squeeze balls, tactile wall, textured objects, puzzles (e.g. tangles), plastic coils,
  prayer beads, shells, plush toys, tactile books, interlocking blocks, stretch figures.

• Movement – swing, mini-trampoline, open vinyl barrel, spin seat, rocker board.

• Pressure – weighted pads or blankets, inflated ball for rolling, resistance exercise bands.

• Visual – sensory calming bottles, bright fabric swatches, pinwheels, fiber optics.

• Sound – noise-dampening headphones, calming music, nature sounds, pleasant musical
  toys, soft wind chimes, auditory sensory bottles (e.g. using rice), rain stick.

How can we make our sensory spaces safe?

● Appropriate use – Ask parents to suggest what works best for their camper and signs to watch for
indicating a break is needed. Never force use – sensory activities should be fun! Monitor for
distress, dizziness, overheating and stop use if seen. Watch for positive effects too!

● Supervision – All volunteers must be trained in Safe Sanctuaries guidelines and camping-specific
procedures. Two unrelated adults must supervise, with participants visible when using the space.

● Cleaning – Sanitation is a top priority. All materials should be washable or spray sanitizable. Post
and follow cleaning procedures! Provide hand wipes at the door, and cleaning products available
yet out of children’s reach.

● Item selection – For safely, pick non-toxic items without flashing lights, sharp corners, or small
pieces that might be swallowed. Objects shouldn’t injure if tossed. Check often for breakage.

Updated 01/23/24