Sensory‑Friendly Living & Family Spaces
Turn shared spaces into regulation zones with smart lighting, noise control, and flexible seating. Design for the whole family — calm options, movement choices, and tidy visuals.
Quick Wins (This Week)
Light Layers
Swap harsh overheads for lamps; add dimmers or filters.
Noise Zones
Designate a “quiet nook”; keep a headphone basket by the TV.
Visual Tidy
Use bins/labels; reduce wall/shelf clutter near the seating area.
Flexible Seating
Offer a rocker, wobble stool, or therapy ball for movement.
Tip: Keep a small “reset kit” (fidgets, lap pad, headphones) within reach of the main seating area.
Common Challenges
| Challenge | How it might look | What to try |
|---|---|---|
| Sibling Noise & Conflicts | Loud play, shouting, meltdowns. | Noise zoning; headphone rules; calm corner nearby. |
| Screen Time Overload | Hyperfocus, resistance to transitions. | Timers; dim lighting; visual “end of show” cues. |
| Constant Movement Needs | Can’t sit still; crashing into furniture. | Provide movement seats; add crash pads. |
| Clutter & Visual Noise | Hard to find things; distractible. | Closed storage; color‑coded bins; weekly reset routine. |
Tools & Setups
Build a menu of choices for calm and focus.
Setup: Create a defined “calm zone” (rug + lamp + chair) and a separate “play/move zone.” Use visual boundaries like mats or tape lines.
Routines & Printables
Related Hubs
Back to Spaces Hub.
Next Steps
Pick one zone (calm or play) to define this week. Add two tools and a clear routine.
OT‑informed guidance for education only; not medical advice.