Part of iCAN’s Autism Acceptance Month Blog Series
For many children with autism, everyday environments can be overwhelming. Bright lights, loud noises, and unexpected changes can trigger stress or discomfort. Fortunately, small adjustments — like lowering noise levels or dimming harsh lighting — can make a significant difference in helping children feel calm and secure. In this blog, we’ll explore how families can create sensory-friendly spaces at home and why these changes can be transformative.
“This world wasn’t built for these children, right? So how do we take a world that may not have been built just for them, and make it feel more accomadating for them, so they have the same opportunities and feelings as other children?” David Mikula, Chief Executive Officer at iCAN.
For Stephanie Perkins’ child, wearing noise-cancelling headphones became a breakthrough:
“His BCBA worked with him on accepting headphones, and that was one of the biggest things he’s ever done. They started off with him just touching them, then slowly touching his face, and he worked up to wearing them. Now he knows those are a safe place,” she said.
This gradual desensitization process demonstrates how consistent, small steps can yield life-changing results. Headphones became a vital tool for managing overstimulation, allowing him to participate more comfortably in everyday activities.
Some Simple Tweaks You Can Make at Home
- Adjust Lighting
- Use Dimmer Switches or Soft Bulbs: Harsh fluorescent lights can be jarring. Opt for softer, warm-toned bulbs or install dimmers.
- Blackout Curtains: Natural light is great, but sometimes too much can overwhelm. Heavy curtains offer control over brightness.
- Reduce Noise
- Noise-Cancelling Headphones: These can be a huge help in overwhelming situations.
- Soft Furnishings: Rugs, curtains, and cushions help absorb sound, minimizing echo or noise bounce.
- Create a Calm Corner
- Sensory Retreat: Dedicate a quiet space filled with comforting items like soft pillows, weighted blankets, or favorite toys.
- Low Stimulation Decor: Neutral colors, minimal clutter, and gentle lighting can help children decompress when they feel overstimulated.
- Organize for Predictability
- Label and Sort: Clear, labeled storage can help children find items easily and reduce the chaos of disorganized rooms.
- Use Visual Schedules: Posting and following a simple schedule can give children a sense of routine and stability.
- Gradual Desensitization
- Step-by-Step Exposure: Like Stephanie’s son practicing with headphones, introduce new textures, sounds, or objects slowly.
- Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate and reward small wins to build a sense of safety and control.
The Role of ABA Therapy in Sensory Accommodations
At iCAN, our approach goes beyond individualized goals for communication or behavior. We also help families incorporate sensory-friendly strategies into their children’s routines. Here’s how:
- Assessment & Collaboration: Therapists work closely with parents to identify triggers and develop tailored interventions.
- Hands-On Practice: Children can explore new sensory tools (like headphones or fidget items) in a structured, supportive environment.
- Family Coaching: Parents learn how to seamlessly integrate sensory modifications at home, ensuring consistency and comfort across all areas of the child’s life.
Sensory-friendly adjustments can help children feel safe, calm, and empowered. Whether it’s wearing headphones to tune out loud noises or dimming the lights during quiet time, sensory-friendly tweaks can dramatically improve a child’s sense of well-being. What might seem like a minor adjustment to an adult can mean the difference between stress and comfort for a child with autism.
Ready to Explore Sensory-Friendly Strategies?
If you’re looking for guidance on how to create a more comfortable environment for your child, the iCAN team is here to help. We combine ABA therapy with practical, everyday solutions that honor each child’s unique needs — because every family deserves a space where their child can thrive.