Designing The Best Bedroom For Your Autistic Child by Jenny Wise
For children on the autism spectrum, everyday places and activities can take quite a bit of planning, and even then, there’s no guarantee that everything will go smoothly. Each child is different, and their needs will vary when it comes to being comfortable and feeling safe. That’s why it’s so important to make sure your home has everything your child needs, especially their bedroom. But where do you begin when it comes to designing the perfect room?
It’s important to think about your child’s specific needs. Many children on the autism spectrum find it difficult to focus if there are too many colors, lights, or decorations in a room, while others enjoy stimulation and find different colored lights and textures soothing. Take this into consideration when choosing fabrics and decor for your child; this might include bedding, paint colors, toys, games, and learning tools.
Keep reading for more great tips on how to create the perfect space for your loved one.
Get organized
Most kids have several toys, games, puzzles, and stuffed animals around their bedrooms, but for those on the autism spectrum, it can be very distracting and even anxiety-inducing to have so many items in one place. Start by getting organized and separating various items around the room to create “zones.” Puzzles can go on a small table in the corner, games can go on shelving, and stuffed animals can go in a hammock or in the toy box. Having delineated areas around the room will help your child when it’s time to play, and staying organized can also be a wonderful boost to mental health.
Choose flooring carefully
If your child has a physical disability, soft flooring that is unobtrusive and won’t create trip hazards will be the best bet; this means no throw rugs, especially on slippery hardwood floors. Low-pile carpeting is a great way to reduce glare, which can be highly beneficial for children who have sensory processing issues.
Reduce the noise level
Sounds of all kinds can be distracting for children on the autism spectrum and can leave them feeling uncomfortable. Reduce the noise level in the bedroom by removing loud toys or a television, and keep sounds in mind when using equipment in the bedroom. For instance, an air purifier is a wonderful way to keep your child healthy by removing pollutants, but it should be as quiet as possible. Mini purifiers are a great option because they are much less noticeable and intrusive than larger ones.
Find the right light
The right light is important for any child’s bedroom, and this is a personal preference when it comes to kids on the autism spectrum. Some children prefer dim lighting or find positive stimulation in colored lights, while others love natural lighting. Fluorescent lights and bright sunlight are often too much for children on the spectrum to handle, so keep this in mind as you are shopping for the right lighting.
The best bedroom for your child on the autism spectrum is one that he or she feels the most comfortable in. If possible, allow your child to be involved in choosing decor and fabrics for the room; this will help them feel more in control, which is often a huge benefit. Once you have a feel for how the bedroom will look, you might incorporate some of those ideas into the rest of your home as well. With some careful planning, you and your child can create a space that will be conducive to learning, fun, safety, and comfort.
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
