No Gym, No Problem
I’m going to say something that you might not expect from me…
You don’t need a sensory gym to have successful sensory based sessions.
Yes, sensory gyms are amazing, but when you know why each tool works, you can get creative and recreate that magic with stuff you already have.
So here are my 5 tips for getting started with sensory based sessions, even if you don’t have a sensory gym (or you are working in a closet):
Step 1: Set Up Your Space
Forget the idea that a sensory-friendly therapy room has to look like a preschool playroom—this approach works for all ages! Here’s how I make a welcoming, sensory-regulating setup that doesn’t feel “kiddie” or overwhelming:
I keep small bins filled with simple items like squishy balls (the durable kind that can survive just about anything!) in easy-to-reach spots around the room. They’re soft, colorful, and easy to grab—but they don’t have that “toy” vibe. And I’ll be honest, I use them myself when I need a break in a marathon meeting!
No need for a huge space, either. Consider adding a cozy rug, soft lighting, and a calming corner stocked with a weighted blanket and comfy seating. If you’re working with a smaller area, a few well-chosen items can make all the difference. The goal is to create a space where anyone can take a breather, self-regulate, and then jump back into learning when they’re ready.
Step 2: Make it Age-Appropriate
Whether you’re working with young children, teens, or adults, language matters—a lot. Adjusting how we talk about sensory items can make a big difference in how they’re perceived and used.
Instead of calling them “toys” or “fidgets,” try terms like “regulation tools” or “learning tools.” This small shift shows that these items are here to support focus and well-being, not just serve as distractions.
So, rather than saying, “grab a sensory toy,” try “grab a regulation tool if you need it.” When people of any age see their needs respected and taken seriously, they’re more likely to engage with the tools purposefully.
Step 3: Frame It from Day One
Set the tone from the very beginning. Imagine introducing your space on day one by saying, “This is all about making sure everyone can work comfortably and stay focused. There are tools here to help you stay regulated—use them whenever you need. No big deal.”
That quick, simple intro makes it clear: these tools are here to support everyone, without singling anyone out. No stigma, just options.
Step 4: Get Visuals Working for You
For that extra boost, I incorporate visual and calming resources. Disney Plus has a series called Zenimation—calm, short clips that you can show students who need help to reset and focus. A quick 5-10 minutes of this can be a game-changer. For students who need a little break before diving into your session, this type of media provides a soothing visual without overstimulation.
You can also find great options on YouTube such as guided meditation or yoga for kids and teens, as well as sites like Go Noodle and Headspace. These visuals and sounds help students regulate without needing a “quiet room.”
Step 5: Build Understanding with Resources
Alright, so here’s my secret weapon for building understanding around sensory processing and making it all feel normal (aka, no awkward stares or stigma) – my partner Chris’s Neurodiversity Affirming Activity Book! 🙌 This book is my go-to for breaking down sensory needs in a way that actually makes sense to everyone, neurodivergent and neurotypical alike.
It’s packed with activities and simple explanations that help demystify sensory processing, turning it into something relatable, approachable, and even fun! This isn’t about lecturing; it’s about creating lightbulb moments.
When students (or clients, or honestly anyone) get the “why” behind sensory tools and needs, it’s a total game-changer. They start seeing these tools not as some weird, embarrassing “thing” but as totally normal, empowering resources.
So, if you want your group to feel more supported, not singled out, this book is everything! Get ready for some serious understanding and zero stigma.
At the end of the day, the goal is simple: a regulated student is a student who’s ready to learn. When we provide sensory tools and set up supportive spaces, we give them what they need to focus, connect, and thrive.
If you want to dive even deeper and learn exactly how to create a neurodiversity-affirming, stigma-free sensory space that supports everyone, even if you don’t have access to a sensory gym, check out this episode of Making the Shift
