Let's chat about creating sensory safe spaces more

Last week, we chatted about creating sensory safe spaces! Since it's a topic that I feel can be helpful for all of us, I wanted to keep that conversation going!

So let's jump in!

1. Calming Scents:

   1. Aromatherapy: Use essential oils like lavender or chamomile to promote relaxation. Diffusers can help disperse calming scents throughout the space. The boys can have a hard time taking deep breaths when they are upset, so this is something I sometimes use to encourage them to take a deep breath . "Ohhh, baby, smell this nice smell. do you smell that?"

   2. Avoid Overwhelming Scents: Be mindful of strong fragrances that might be off-putting. Keep scents subtle and calming, As someone that LOVES perfume, I know it can be hard! But I try to be mindful of where I am going to be and who I am going to be around when I use perfume (or choose not to).

   
   

1. Functional Zones:

   1. Create Different Areas: Set up specific zones for various activities—reading, playing, or relaxing. Each area can be tailored to different sensory needs, making it easy for individuals to engage in what feels best for them. I'm going to be honest and say that this can be hard for us! The boys do have places where they do certain things (like eating, playing, etc) but those spaces can be different from each other. For example, Yuri loves to watch tv in one place and Aki loves to watch tv in another place. And that's ok. We try to create those different areas for them that works for each boy.

   2. Flexible Furniture: Use bean bags, floor cushions, or low seating to allow for comfortable, adaptable spaces. I have a big beanbag chair that they use for multiple things (including jumping onto it at times...lol) They also will use it for a calm down space, since it kind of hugs their body and can be calming.

      
      

1. Engaging Activities:

   1. Sensory Tools: Include sensory bins, fidget toys, weighted blankets, or soft toys. These can provide comfort and help with self-regulation. Aki LOVES soft toys, especially stuffed animals, So we use those often and have plenty around the house.

   2. Creative Outlets: Set up art supplies, musical instruments, or building blocks to encourage creative expression in a low-pressure environment. Yuri loves to draw and do art- and Aki doesn't really. And that's ok! We use creative outlets more for Yuri, since he enjoys it more!

With this in mind, let’s jump in to this week’s Therapist Mama Bear tip!