Why Use a Sensory Tent?
A sensory tent is more than a novelty item; it’s a powerful tool in any inclusive classroom. For children with autism, sensory processing disorder, ADHD, or anxiety, a tent can serve as:
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A calming zone during overstimulating moments.
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A focus space for children who need fewer distractions.
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A transition tool when moving between activities or environments.
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A space for independence, self-regulation, or even one-on-one time with a teacher or SNA.
By creating a designated area where children can retreat, reset, and return to learning at their own pace, you offer both comfort and autonomy
Setting the Scene: Key Elements of an Effective Sensory Tent
You don’t need to overfill the tent with gadgets or make it elaborate. A few carefully chosen elements can go a long way. Here are some things to consider:
1. Lighting for Calm and Focus
Soft, adjustable lighting can completely transform the mood of the space. Colour-changing lamps or gentle glowing shapes can provide soothing visual input and help children regulate their emotions. These are particularly helpful for children who seek visual stimulation or benefit from predictable, rhythmic cues.
Examples: a soft glowing mood egg, a colour-changing discovery table, or even a starry night projector aimed at the tent ceiling.
2. Weighted or Pressure-Based Tools
Deep pressure stimulation is known to promote calm in many children, particularly those with sensory challenges. Including a few weighted options inside or near the tent can help:
Keep these nearby, neatly folded or displayed in a small basket, so children can choose what helps them feel grounded.
3. Comfortable, Flexible Seating
The tent should be physically comfortable and easy to access. A low chair, beanbag, or soft mat gives children the option to sit, lie, or curl up in a way that suits them. Portable chairs that encourage active sitting can also support children who need movement while remaining in a quiet space.
4. Tactile and Visual Elements
Some children benefit from engaging their senses even while relaxing. Think about including:
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Soft textures like velvet or fleece
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A small tactile toy or fidget
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Visual tools like slow-moving lights or mirrors
These small additions can help children who are sensory-seeking or who self-soothe through repetitive motion.
5. Simplicity and Predictability
It’s important not to overload the space. Keep it simple, consistent, and clutter-free. A tent with a blackout lining or darker material can help reduce visual distractions and increase the calming effect. Use it as part of a routine—children will come to know that it’s a safe place where they can take a break, not a punishment or reward.
Supporting Self-Regulation and Inclusion
Sensory tents are not just for specific children. Any child can benefit from a quiet space. The message it sends to your class is powerful: everyone is different, and we all need to take care of ourselves in different ways. When a sensory tent is part of the classroom setup, it models compassion, inclusion, and emotional literacy.
Where to Start?
Setting up a sensory tent doesn’t have to break your budget. Start small: a pop-up tent, a light source, a cushion, and one or two weighted items. Observe how your students respond, and adapt the space to suit their preferences and needs.
Suggested Resources
If you’re ready to create a sensory space, the following items are useful options to consider:
By taking the time to create a sensory tent, you’re giving your students a powerful tool for self-care and emotional regulation—something they’ll benefit from both in the classroom and far beyond.
Carpets & Mats