People who have a cognitive delay, neurological challenges or other sensory processing disorders can display signs of delayed or under-developed emotional intelligence and understanding. However, the use of sensory equipment offers a sensory solution for improving and developing emotional intelligence in a person who may have any one of these conditions.
In this blog post, we will take you through the different types of sensory equipment and environments. We will then explain the benefits of each in order to better understand the ways in which they are able to help with the development of emotional intelligence.
Multisensory rooms and environments are dedicated spaces where sensory stimulus can be completely manipulated to benefit the user. Whether the room is being used to encourage relaxation, help educate, or improve sensory development, every aspect presented to the user can be controlled.
Sensory environments that are filled with interactive lighting, sounds, and texture create a sense of calm, allowing users to regulate their emotions. Translating these experiences from the multisensory environment into everyday life is achievable with regular visits to these spaces.
Multisensory rooms are also the perfect environment to encourage interaction with other individuals as it is a safe and supervised space. This allows users to be together, creating vital opportunities for the development of social skills. Reacting and understanding different feelings during interaction helps increase emotional intelligence. Exposing users to this kind of experience in such a secure environment gives them an opportunity to develop emotionally in a way unlike any other.
A great example of a multisensory space that provides the level of flexibility needed for developing emotional intelligence, is M.I.L.E our multisensory interactive learning environment. As well as offering a range of built in scenarios, there is also the option of importing different media including film clips, sounds, pictures, and many more to tailor the experience completely.
This piece of sensory equipment can be used within a multisensory space or simply on its own, to instill calm in the user. Bubble Tubes can also be used as a method for encouraging interaction and acknowledging feelings, making cause and effect a prominent topic where bubble tubes are concerned. If you would like to know more about the sensory benefits of bubble tubes, please read our earlier post that includes input from occupational therapists.
Fiber optics come in many different forms and can be used by a variety of different users. However, they are said to benefit those in particular who have neuro-differences like sensory processing disorder, Autism, ADHD, and Alzheimer’s. The key with fiber optics specifically is the engagement element and the process that follows emotionally when interaction occurs in it’s simplest form.
Again these can be used within a multisensory room or on their own because a variety of fiber optic products are available to assist with different conditions and users. To learn more about the sensory benefits of fiber optics check out our informative blog post for a more detailed look at the many different forms fiber optics can take.
Let us help you find the perfect multisensory room or sensory equipment for your requirements in order to develop emotional intelligence in a way that is suitable and tailored completely to the individual. Get in touch and we'll find the right sensory solution for you!
