(Autism/ADHD) Sensory Stimulation

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Calming & Relaxing Attention Difficulties (Autism/ADHD) Sensory Stimulation The Dark Den is great for creative play and is simple to construct and store. Crawl into the dark den and explore the possibilities of a sensory environment. A double thick nylon skin means the den is very dark and can be bought to life with accessories. Excellent when used for role play, drama, scientific investigation, special needs and creative play! Or fill the floor with textured pillows, blankets and materials for a quiet, dark resting place when your child needs to wind down. The den is 1m3 and consists of 12 poles, 8 connectors and den cover in a storage bag.

Sensory play is important for every child’s development but especially important to those with special needs and disabilities. Whether your child needs additional help or not, the dark den will help you create your very own sensory space in your home. Many sensory spaces have black walls and black ceilings because black absorbs light rather than reflecting it. The black colouring gives a sense of calm and allows the use of lighting to create sensory stimulation instead of sensory overload. Lots of twinkling fairy lights or light tubes will provide a calming effect on your little one when stressed or needing time out from a busy day.

Use for scientific investigation, special needs and fun! The dark den is a wonderful resource that children enjoy using. The accessories help them to explore their senses and encourage them to spend time in pairs talking about what they see and using their imaginations. It is also an excellent resource for solitary play. When a child feels the need to be alone they can sit in the den and use the accessories to explore their environment and their own ideas.

Teaching Ideas:

Use as a sensory break to prevent sensory overload and “meltdowns”

Children are encouraged to use the dark den either singly or in pairs. The accessories are available at all times. Ideas are discussed and encouraged. This can lead to investigating sight and touch experiences.

Use with star projector for space exploration

What is sensory stimulation? The answer is that stimulating the senses can have a positive effect on learning as well as emotional and social growth in a child. Sensory stimulation in learning means having activities that challenge or make use of the five senses. These senses, touch, taste, smell, listening, and visual, must be included in one’s learning. Schools incorporate sensory stimulation in their curriculum from the basics of math and reading to special classes such as art or extracurricular activities such as sports. Sensory stimulation also affects the emotional and social growth of a child.