The Rethinking of My Classroom Space

When I was in grades 7-12, it wasn't uncommon for my classrooms to have student desks arranged in long columns. We had to sit in alphabetical order, rectangular fluorescent lights humming purple-gray light downward. Oh yes! And clocks WITH HANDS!

I have assigned students the task to design "their ideal classrom space" a few times over the years. Inevitably, I got pictures of spaces with couches, comfy recliners, big TVs, etc. Fast-forward to the COVID pandemic. When we began teaching and learning from home back in 2020, it gave us a glimpse into what students would create if they had the ability to design (or use out of necessity) their own learning spaces. I noticed that there were many spaces with sparse, mostly LED lighting.

Around the same time, I was reading books written by autistic children and adults that explained some of their sensory needs. I knew none of this when I started teaching. I fed my head about Snoezelen Rooms and I began to ask students questions about their ideal classroom space. This time, however, I asked them what they thought they needed in order to learn their best. It's evolving, but I wanted to share some photos of my progress toward a sensory-friendly space.

The overhead fluorescents stay off, and I use blue LEDs (because blue is calming, for those that need that). This year, I added tables where students may stand up and work if they wish, and a scented oil diffuser. And a LOT of plants! Many students just want to touch them, which surprised me at first. The changes have made it easier for us to have a classroom conversation about how some students have trauma around excessively loud voices and how we can modulate to make them feel safe, among other advantages.

The other day, a student from the elementary school side wandered up to my open door, mouth open, looking inside at my blue room. As I invited him in, he said, "I want to stay here all day!" Progress!

I'd love to hear about what's working in your classrooms! Please leave comments below, and as always,

Happy snacking!

Charles

Head chef