As concerns about student burnout, anxiety, and sensory overload grow, Northern Arizona University (NAU) has launched a new sensory room at its Institute for Human Development (IHD). This space is designed to provide students with a tranquil environment where they can rest, refocus, and regulate their emotions.
The sensory room aims to support neurodivergent students, who often face unique challenges in traditional learning environments. According to John Schaffer, the academic program coordinator at IHD, the creation of such spaces is essential. He explained, “Providing these types of rooms on campus is important because they give students a space to go if they feel a little overwhelmed.”
The concept of a sensory room at NAU has been in development for several years. Securing funding and finding a suitable location proved to be significant hurdles. After receiving a grant from the Vital Project Fund, Schaffer proposed using part of those funds to establish the sensory room. With the approval from Kelly Roberts, the director of IHD, the project moved forward.
Transforming Ideas into Reality
Amber King, the executive assistant at IHD, played a pivotal role in bringing the sensory room to fruition. She managed approvals and procurement of necessary equipment, while Sean Kugler, a neurodivergent digital accessibility analyst at NAU, contributed as a consultant designer. Kugler, who was part of the initial vision for the sensory room, expressed his excitement about its completion.
He emphasized the room’s potential for fostering comfort and authenticity. “If we can be comfortable with who we are, it is easier for us to learn,” said Kugler. “We are not concentrating on masking, but on taking in what is around us.” His experience with sensory rooms dates back two decades, highlighting the growing recognition of their importance in educational settings.
The sensory room features a range of amenities designed to accommodate different sensory needs. It is unscented and includes adjustable lighting options, soothing sound machines, fidget toys, and varied seating arrangements.
A Commitment to Holistic Support
Roberts highlighted that the introduction of this sensory room reflects NAU’s commitment to supporting the holistic well-being of its students. “Everyone often needs a space to simply exist and decompress from the overstimulation that tends to be life today,” she stated. This initiative acknowledges that effective learning extends beyond academics; it encompasses emotional and sensory support as well.
Kugler believes the sensory room aligns with the concept of “anti-fragility,” as articulated by President Cruz Rivera. This idea promotes resilience in students through simple yet impactful solutions. He noted, “It is not an expensive concept and provides us with a really simple solution that can give us much more in return, including a sense of belonging.”
The grand opening of the sensory room is set for October 30, 2023, from 16:00 to 17:00 at the IHD building, located at 912 S Riordan Ranch St. The event will be open to all, marking a significant step toward fostering a more inclusive and supportive campus environment.
This initiative represents a growing trend among educational institutions to prioritize mental health and well-being, recognizing the diverse needs of their student populations. The establishment of sensory spaces like this one serves as a valuable resource, helping students navigate the challenges of academic life while promoting a culture of acceptance and understanding.
