Resource

Make Your Own Sensory Space for Students with Multiple Disabilities

Make your own sensory learning space for students with multiple disabilities, CVI, and other significant challenges.

By Rachel Herrin

In my search for activities for a student who has been diagnosed with significant disabilities, as well as CVI (Cortical Visual Impairment), I decided to create a sensory learning space.

What I like about this type of sensory activity space is that it gives my student the opportunity to explore and learn independently.  Every movement gives him sensory feedback.  The items in the space are different textures, make noises when hit, or light up.  We also put soft music on for him to listen to.

student laying inside little room
A student lays on his back with small lights and red background above him.

Materials

Because funds are limited I decided to make my own sensory learning space with the following materials:

  • peg board
  • zip ties
  • plexiglass
  • fairy lights (my student’s preference is red)
  • items from our room to hang or attach on the inside

It cost less than $30 to make.

pegboard and plexi glass
Pegboard and plexi glass
inside little room with light
Inside sensory learning space with items suspended
Sensory learning space
Inside sensory learning space
Sensory activity space collage