DDS exploring new therapeutic experience with Sensory Room

Posted on December 24, 2023 by Sunny South News

By Heather Cameron
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Dorothy Dalgliesh School in Picture Butte recently established a Sensory Room within its walls.

“Our goal was to create a calming and therapeutic space to help students relieve stress and promote positive learning experiences.” said Crystal McGregor, Prinicipal of Dorothy Dalgliesh School. “Sensory rooms are amazing. They are not just important for neurodiverse individuals, but for anyone who needs time to refocus, regroup, be mindful and self-regulate. We are so grateful to have the community support to provide such a useful and student-centred space at Dorothy Dalgliesh School.”

McGregor says that the sensory room has been open for approximately a month and there have been overwhelmingly positive responses from all of our students with lots of kids coming by just to explore it and coming out with big smiles, asking to come back.

“It’s an inviting place where students can come in and find peace. This mindful environment helps kids return their minds to a state of calm so they are able to refocus, return to class and move along with their day,” she said. “Some days kids may find it seemingly impossible to regulate themselves, so having a safe place to do so allows the brain to reboot.”

McGregor says some of the other benefits associated with the sensory room are the promotion of social interactions, communication and motor skills, as well as the opportunity for sensory stimulation.

Our body’s sensory experiences are what link the brain to our behaviour,” said McGregor. “Research shows that sensory rooms and sensory devices have a variety of benefits, such as calming effects, stimulation, improved focus, motor skills development and sensory development.”

Features inside the room, McGregor says, include a tactile board for fine motor cause and effect, concentration and rebooting, and a texture board for contact with surroundings. There are lights as well for visual stimulation, mats for safe and comfortable play, and a whiteboard for free drawing, which can be a powerful communication tool.

“More and more, students are facing complex trauma, and sensory rooms can be very useful in helping students learn to self-regulate and develop coping skills,” said McGregor.