As Thanksgiving draws near with its whirlwind of activity, noise, and family gatherings, it’s essential to consider the unique needs of individuals with autism who may find the holiday overwhelming.
A designated quiet sensory space can provide a much-needed retreat, helping them re-center and recharge. Here’s how to create an inviting and calming environment, complete with examples of setups and essential materials.
Step 1: Choose the Right Location
Select a quiet area in your home that is away from the hustle and bustle. This could be a spare bedroom, a cozy corner of the living room, or even a large closet turned into a sensory retreat. Ensure there’s enough space for the individual to sit or lie down comfortably.
Step 2: Create Comfort with Soft Furnishings
Add soft seating options like bean bags, cushions, or an inflatable lounge chair where they can relax. Incorporating a weighted blanket can also provide a calming effect through deep pressure stimulation.
Step 3: Manage Sensory Input
Include soft lighting such as fairy lights or a lava lamp to create a tranquil atmosphere. You might also consider blackout curtains to minimize external light. For sound management, provide noise-canceling headphones or play soothing nature sounds or white noise with a Bluetooth speaker.
Step 4: Engage the Senses
Fill the space with sensory tools. Here’s a list of materials for setting up your sensory retreat:
1. Calming Textures:
Weighted blankets
Various tactile toys (e.g., stress balls, fidget spinners)
Soft plush toys or stuffed animals
2. Soothing Aromas:
Essential oil diffuser with calming oils (e.g., lavender, chamomile)
Scented sachets or pillow sprays
This is always tailored for the person, because for some people, scented things can be less desirable
3. Sound Options:
Noise-canceling headphones
A Bluetooth speaker for calming music or nature sounds
4. Visual Relaxation:
Coloring books and colored pencils
Glow-in-the-dark stars or calming visual displays
Portable projector for soft images or videos
5. Quiet Activities:
Puzzles or building blocks
Sensory bins filled with rice, beans, or kinetic sand
Books or interactive story apps
Step 5: Establish Ground Rules
Encourage family members to recognize this space as a quiet retreat. Set clear guidelines on when and how to use it: if someone needs a break from the festivities, they can retreat here without interruption.
Step 6: Encourage Exploration
Invite the individual to co-create this space! Allow them to choose their favorite sensory items, colors for their space, and how they would like to use it. This ownership can make the space more appealing and reassuring.
By thoughtfully creating a tranquil sensory space for Thanksgiving, you provide an essential refuge for individuals with autism during Thanksgiving. Not only does this setup promote calmness and self-regulation amidst a busy holiday, but it also underscores the importance of understanding and accommodating sensory preferences, fostering a more inclusive and supportive family gathering.
Happy Thanksgiving!
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