Fostering with Care: Creating a Sensory-Friendly Home Environment

Autism Awareness Month Blog Series – Part 2

When a child with autism enters your home, you’re not just welcoming them into a new space — you’re offering them safety, calm, and a place to feel like they belong. For many autistic children and young people, the world can be full of sensory challenges, so creating a home that feels predictable and peaceful can make a big difference.

In this blog, we’ll explore how foster parents can make simple, thoughtful changes to create a sensory-friendly home environment that supports regulation, reduces anxiety, and helps children feel safe and seen.

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What is Sensory Sensitivity?

Children with autism often experience the world through heightened senses. A buzzing light, a scratchy jumper, or the hum of a fridge might feel overwhelming. Others may seek out sensory input — like jumping, spinning, or touching different textures — to help regulate themselves.

These responses aren’t “bad behavior” — they’re often the child’s way of managing their nervous system. A sensory-friendly home gives them space to do that, safely and without shame.

6 Ways to Make Your Home More Sensory-Friendly

1. Create a Calm Corner

A quiet, safe space the child can go to when they need to self-regulate.Include:

• Soft cushions or beanbags

• Weighted blankets

• Noise-cancelling headphones or calming music

• Fidget toys or sensory items

Tip: Let the child help choose or decorate this space, if they feel comfortable.

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2. Think About Lighting

Avoid harsh overhead lighting or flickering bulbs. Use soft, natural light or lamps.

• Consider dimmable lights or fairy lights

• Offer sunglasses or hats indoors if light is overwhelming

  
  

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3. Reduce Noise Triggers

• Use rugs or curtains to absorb sound

• Turn off background noise when possible

• Create quiet times during the day

Some children may benefit from a white noise machine or calming sounds to help them focus or sleep.

4. Offer a Variety of Textures

Some children may avoid certain fabrics, while others crave them.Provide:

• A box of different materials (fleece, velvet, sandpaper, squishy toys)

• Options for bedding and clothing

Let the child choose what feels comfortable, and don’t worry if it seems unusual — comfort is key.

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5. Keep Routines Visible

Many children with autism feel safer when they know what’s coming next.Try:

• A daily visual schedule or checklist

• A whiteboard with reminders or pictures

• Using the same phrases for transitions or tasks

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6. Minimize Clutter

Too many things in a room can feel visually overwhelming.Keep spaces clear, organized, and labelled where possible.

Optional: Create a Sensory Box

A small, portable box filled with calming or stimulating items the child can use when needed:

• Stress balls

• Chewy necklaces

• Soft brush

• Scented putty

• Bubble timer

Remember...

You don’t need to redesign your whole house — even small changes can make a big difference. The goal isn’t to create a perfect environment, but a thoughtful one. A space where the child can feel in control, accepted, and supported in their own unique way.

Coming Next:

Building Social Skills and Confidence Through Play – discover fun and easy ways to connect with children on the spectrum through low-pressure, playful activities.