Our sensory room at Willow Grove

At Willow Grove we have decided to invest in a complete sensory room renovation for 2025/2026. We are really looking forward to the positive impact that a new, fully functioning, sensory room will have on our pupils. You can read about some of these benefits below.

Our exciting, new sensory room will offer a a wide range of benefits tailored to support children with Social, Emotional and Mental Health Needs (SEMH), who may struggle with emotional regulation, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, autism spectrum conditions, or other related challenges. Here's a breakdown of the key benefits for our children:

 

1. Emotional Regulation

· Safe space for calming down: Sensory rooms provide a controlled environment where children can retreat when feeling overwhelmed, dysregulated, or anxious.

· Supports self-regulation: Over time, pupils learn strategies to manage their emotions independently using sensory tools or calming techniques found in the room.

2. Reduces Challenging Behaviours

· Prevents escalation: Offering a calm space can reduce the likelihood of emotional and physical dysregulation.

· Alternative to exclusion: Instead of being sent out of class or school, which can often raise feelings of rejection and failure, children can use the sensory room as a positive intervention.

3. Improves Focus and Learning Readiness

· Sensory breaks improve concentration: Short visits to the sensory room help reset a child's focus, making them more prepared for classroom learning.

· Supports transitions: Especially helpful during challenging parts of the day (e.g., after playtime or lunch).

4. Supports Sensory Integration

· Many SEMH pupils have sensory processing difficulties. The room can help:

o Provide stimulation (lights, textures, sounds) for those who are under-stimulated

o Reduce input for those who are over-stimulated

o Promote motor skills, balance, and spatial awareness through movement-based activities.

5. Promotes Mental Health and Wellbeing

· Encourages mindfulness and relaxation: Elements like calming music, gentle lighting, and weighted items promote a sense of peace, calm and tranquillity.

· Builds trust and safety: It shows our pupils that their needs are acknowledged and met in a non-punitive way.

6. Supports Staff in Managing the Classroom

· Helps with de-escalation: Staff can use the space to guide pupils through de-escalation routines.

· Minimises disruption: Children can take a sensory break rather than disrupting others, maintaining the flow of lessons and opportunities to learn.

7. Fosters Independence and Self-Awareness

· Children begin to recognise when they need a break and learn how to advocate for themselves.

· Helps develop emotional intelligence by connecting bodily sensations with emotional states.

8. Inclusive Education

· Makes our school environment more accessible: Especially for neurodivergent children or those with trauma backgrounds.

· Encourages all children to feel they belong, regardless of their challenges.

 

We will keep you all updated on the progress of our new sensory room via Class DoJo and the school website.