Sensory Solutions
Home Design for Hyper and Hyposensitivities
By Martha Oschwald
Tips and ideas for designing a comfortable home for children with sensory processing challenges .
Autistic children may experience hypo- or hypersensitivities which profoundly impact their sensory perception . As a result , they may interact with their physical environment in distinctly different ways than neurotypical children . It ’ s also fair to say that no two autistic kids are alike . However , designing with autism spectrum disorder ( ASD ) sensitivities in mind may create a more calming , helpful , and synergetic space .
The first part of designing your home is understanding what a particular room is meant to do .
You , as the parent , will already know the answer to this question . For example , a child ’ s bedroom should be relaxing for sleep and solace . Bedrooms with a desk or study area should also encourage studying and concentration . Having a rough idea of the needs a room should satisfy goes a long way toward good design .
The next step of the process involves getting your child ’ s feedback . Asking questions about his / her sensory experience may shed light on his / her specific needs . As Karen Kabaki-Sisto , M . S . CCC-SLP points out : “ Using more descriptive language helps to accurately identify the sensory issues your child is having .” Get your children to be as specific as possible about what they like or don ’ t like about a sound , feeling , or other sensory experience .