Sensory Rooms

Today, for my practicum observations I was at Van Horne elementary school.  One of the really neat things I learned was that they had a sensory room.  Unfortunately, during the time I went to check it out on the ground floor, the room was locked and not being used.  Sensory rooms are used as therapy rooms for children with autism and other developmental disorders.  A typical sensory room may look like a playground of light, color and sound but for children with autism and other developmental disorders, it is a place of comfort.  Besides having sparkling lights and soothing music, the room may also contain soft play furniture such as a trampoline, a rocking chair, mirrors, a waterbed, a large board, as well as other areas for work or play.

Some examples:
http://www.leaderpost.com/Health/Photo+gallery+Jean+Vanier+sensory+room/1593342/story.html?id=1593342