Autistic people often have a preference for sensory rooms due to the following reasons:
1. Sensory Regulation
Autistic individuals may experience sensory hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity. A sensory room provides a controlled environment where they can adjust the level of sensory stimulation according to their own needs. For example, if an autistic person is hypersensitive to light, they can dim the lights in a sensory room or choose a less overwhelming light color. Similarly, for those sensitive to sound, the volume of auditory stimuli like music or white noise can be adjusted to a comfortable level.
The room also offers a range of sensory tools. For instance, a weighted blanket in the sensory room can provide deep-pressure stimulation, which may have a calming effect. Autistic people might seek this kind of pressure to self-regulate their overstimulated nervous system.
2. Predictability and Safety
Sensory rooms are usually predictable spaces. The layout and equipment are consistent, with fewer unexpected sensory surprises than in other environments. For example, the position of a tactile wall or a bubble tube is fixed. This predictability provides a sense of safety and security for autistic individuals, as they know what to expect and can better manage their anxiety.
They can retreat to this space when they feel overwhelmed in other settings. For example, if an autistic child becomes overstimulated at school or in a social gathering, a sensory room can serve as a haven where they can calm down and regain their composure.
3. Self-Expression and Engagement
The various sensory elements in the room allow autistic people to engage in self-expression. For example, they can interact with light projectors to create different patterns or focus on the movement of objects in a water-filled tube. These activities provide an outlet for their creativity and a way to communicate their interests non-verbally.
Some autistic individuals might be fascinated by the textures in the room, such as the feel of a soft cushion or a bumpy tactile mat. These textures can capture their attention and provide a form of enjoyment and engagement that might be difficult to find in other environments.
