The Multi Sensory Environment
The concept of developing a specialised space for increased sensory stimulation was introduced in the Netherlands in the late 1970s, through the work of two Dutch therapists with inventive ideas: Jan Hulsegge and Ad Verheul. The first Snoezelen room wasn’t introduced to the UK until as late as 1987.
Most people now know this term as the Sensory Room or the Multi Sensory Environment (MSE). So what are the benefits of the MSE, and why should you consider one?
The Theory
We all communicate with the world around us through our senses, and for the fortunate masses, this is largely achieved in an unconscious manner. We take for granted the gift of normal functionality that we use each day to great effect. There is also a strong suggestion by cognitive psychologists that we can only understand and respond appropriately to our immediate environment through sensory stimulation, and therefore to be actively involved in daily activities depends largely on the senses operating favourably.
What is Neurodiversity ?
"Very simply, neurodiversity refers to the different ways a person’s brain processes information."
Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
There are many diverse and multifaceted reasons why an individual may have difficulty in communicating and responding to what many people might expect. Neurodiversity as a typical example is amongst us all and can even be seen as a great asset but for some there may be acute and more challenging and additional issues that require some help . We can therefore consider introducing a place where any one person can take some control back within a safe environment. The multi sensory environment is a place where an individual can choose options, control outcomes and learn how to manipulate this space for their own pleasure and learning. These elements all come together to offer the development of thought, intelligence and social skills. In fact, these spaces can be beneficial to all – and so much fun too!
So, what are the senses?
The most familiar senses are as follows:
Vision (Visual) – Colour, contrast, shape, size
Touch (Tactile) – Touch, pressure, vibration, pain
Smell (Olfactory) – Identity, type, sensitivity
Hearing (Auditory) – Rhythm, tone, sequence
Taste (Gustatory) – Salty, sweet, bitter
There are, however, two additional senses that form an integral part of our cognitive awareness of our surroundings:
Vestibular – This involves balance, movement, gravity and position. We can work out if we are hanging upside down, moving, and at what speed even with our eyes closed.
Proprioception – This sense processes information from our body parts to allow an unconscious awareness of their relation each other and to their surroundings.
“We like the idea but don’t know what we want”
The style of MSE you choose is dependent on what you wish to get out of it. For many this is a grey area, and during discussions we are often told, “You are the experts, you tell us.”
Our mission is to look at which of the senses you wish to stimulate and, just as important, consider which of the senses may be diminished and how we can design to compensate for this. We prefer to make our sensory spaces as flexible and future-proof as possible, whether for play, relaxation, communication, learning or a combination of the above. This approach embraces the unique way in which individuals communicate and learn, while offering a philosophy (and investment) that allows for future growth and development. Once we have established a loose framework we can use that as a starting point. We can then discuss further what style of room you think may work. This is a bespoke room designed for you.
The Passive Room – This will be a room which has few changeable parts and could well take the form of soft play areas, with simple light and fixed units that are simply ‘on’ or ‘off’. This could be an area for play and enjoyment or equally a place of calm and relaxation.
The Active Room - This room will offer more equipment that has a greater element of control and allows the user a greater feeling of empowerment alongside the ability to make change.
The Interactive Room – This room is a fully functional and controllable room, which can include computer controlled technology. This can offer the user a more immersive experience and offers huge opportunities for the development of the user’s abilities.
Mobile Units – Here, we can take a system and make it fully portable so that any room can enjoy the benefits of the new sensory equipment. Notably, these portable units will always become the focal point when placed in a room; if that is what you want to achieve, these are a very effective choice whether low or high tech.
What goes into the MSE and why does it work?
There are thousands of pieces of equipment that are available to create your new sensory room. You really can reach for the stars with the modern multi sensory experience. We can help you to find the balance between processing and registering the new sensory experience, whilst helping to filter out the unwanted stimuli and limiting the possibility of sensory overload. In many cases this can be as simple as knowing when to switch things off.
Adaptability is something we consider essential when designing a new room. We want to provide a space for any person to learn, play, communicate or grow in confidence and to feel that this new space is good for them. We will, therefore, always endeavour to offer schemes for different types of use, where the same room can offer both unique and varied experiences.
The Benefits
The multi sensory experience is not exclusive to any particular environment.
Its flexibility to offer something for everyone is its main advantage. the many benefits include:
-
Increased communication
-
Social awareness
-
Increased reactions through the senses
-
Developed awareness of cause and effect
-
Improved co-ordination
-
Promoted relaxation and mental awareness
-
A secure and safe setting
-
Promoted cognitive development
-
Heightened creativity and exploration of environment
-
Reduced stress and anxiety
-
Speech and language improvements
-
A calm and unrestrained place to play
-
Promoted happiness, contentment and smiles
-
Improved motor development
These are just a few of the numerous benefits that have been documented and each user will ultimately find how they want to enjoy the sensory experience.
Why you should consider a Multi Sensory Environment
The freedom and pleasure that many people enjoy through their normal daily activities is not always available to those with life limitations. The MSE presents the chance for these individuals to enjoy a bespoke and safe environment in which they can express themselves and benefit from increased sensory perception and improved communication. By stepping inside the MSE, we are opening another door to the wider world of sensory experience and the enjoyment of life.
The development of the MSE has been a 40-year + process boasting countless testimonies of success. From early years evolution, to communication and learning difficulties, and onto old age and dementia, the sensory room provides a most integral tool in allowing those in need to express themselves, feel control and experience empowerment. It is within our human nature to seek out shelter and protection in the form of safe spaces – and for those who need additional help, the MSE forms an important part of their shelter and protection.
Kevin Phillips www.sosensory.com 2024