Embarking on the journey of designing a sensory garden for your child is not just about creating a space but about unlocking a world of joy and endless possibilities. It’s a chance to spend more time outdoors in an environment that is perfectly suited for your child, and it can be filled with inspiration and excitement.
One of the most effective ways to achieve this is by transforming a garden shed into a sensory wonderland. This purpose-built space will not only cater to your family’s needs but also provide a dedicated area that can be used as and when required, giving you the reassurance and confidence that you’re making the right decision.
But how do you need to create your very own sensory shed?
The Right-Sized Shed and Location
Firstly, you need to ensure the shed and the space you have can accommodate your plans. Think of access and navigation for the placement, as you need to be able to get into the shed with ease, especially if you are using mobility aids to enter it. The shed needs to be on a stable surface, and if you don’t have this, you need appropriate shed bases to keep the structure secure in its place.
Consider any steps or slopes around where you want to place the shed, and then, based on this information, assess what size will be the most suitable for your plans and the yard size you’re working with.
Utilities
If your shed has lights inside, how will they be powered? What about electric devices or accessories? Will you be running a cord from your home, or do you need the structure to have electricity or plumbing for cleaning, play purposes, or heating and comfort? This can ramp up the cost considerably. However, for a sensory room, you might need to factor in the power you will need to deliver the results you aim for.
Sensory Items
Once you know the space you have to work with, you can then look at the appropriate sensory elements you might need. Each child or adult has individual needs, and the sensory equipment you choose should cater to these. Be it climbing activities, swinging apparatus, lights, textures, switches, fidget toys, sounds, etc., whatever the person you’re signing, the space needs should be accommodated with ease to allow for the perfect environment.
Environment.
Don’t overlook the impact of the internal and external environment on the final result. Can your neighbors hear what’s going on inside? Or can you hear them inside, which might ruin the experience? You might need soundproofing materials built into the structure of the place to limit anything that might interfere with the sensory experience.
Do you need to incorporate neutral lighting or block it entirely for a darker and quieter space, where you can decompress? Do you need locks on the doors for safety, or do you need to keep others out when the space is in use? Consider the environment around you and how it will impact the sensory room you’re designing, so you can cover all your bases and deliver a functioning shed that meets your needs.
