Christmas is the perfect time to slow down and enjoy simple, cosy crafts with children. You don’t need anything fancy, just basic supplies like paper, glue, crayons and a few everyday household bits. Here are some quick, fun ideas to spark festive creativity. 1. Paper Plate Christmas Wreaths A paper plate, some cut-out shapes, and glue can create a beautiful wreath for your door or window. Children can decorate with pom-poms, torn paper or crayons. A simple guide is available

We have seen first-hand how gentle, purposeful touch and textured play can change a child’s day. Tactile stimulation, from textured toys to deep-pressure activities like weighted blankets or super tight hugs helps many children feel calmer and more able to join in instead of shutting down. Gentle deep-pressure input in particular has been linked with reduced arousal and improved behavioural regulation, which means fewer meltdowns and more successful moments at home, school a

At Sensory Den, we know how overwhelming modern public spaces can be for children with sensory sensitivities. That’s why providing sensory toolkits in community venues, like shopping centres, community centres and libraries can make a real, positive difference. A sensory toolkit for these environment can include noise-reducing headphones, fidget toys, visual timers, darkened glasses or any other tool that me be of use to the specific area. These simple tools help young people

When we think of sensory tools, we often picture fidgets or soft corners , but lighting matters just as much. The right light can calm busy minds, improve focus, and support emotional regulation. Recent European studies highlight just how powerful light can be. Classrooms with good daylighting show better attention and learning outcomes. Research on “integrative lighting” ;combining natural light with well-balanced LEDs , shows improved comfort and alertness. Studies also not

🎃 Costumes, crowds, and tonnes of sweets! Halloween is full of unusual sights, sounds, and surprises. But for children with sensory differences, it can feel more like chaos than celebration. Research from UCC highlights how Halloween flips the sensory script: “Spontaneity, surprise, darkness, lack of control… the changing presentation of familiar people” can be deeply unsettling. Add in scratchy costumes, flashing lights, and unexpected doorbell rings, and you’ve got a recip

Supporting children with additional needs can feel overwhelming, but there are fantastic resources across Dublin offering therapies,...

As someone who designs sensory spaces and sources practical solutions for families, I’m always looking for ways to make a meaningful...

Autumn has an abundance of sensory tools right outside without spending a cent ! Enjoy what nature has to offer this season.