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Is It Sensory?

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Sensory environment checklist

A practical audit for home, classroom, or workplace. Tick what is already in place. Use gaps as a starting point for adjustments.

This checklist is for general education only. It is not a clinical assessment or diagnosis tool. For personalised advice, find a qualified occupational therapist.

Content last reviewed: April 2026. Items follow common sensory environment audit ideas used in occupational therapy education; this is not a standardised clinical form.

Sound (Auditory)

  • Background noise level is predictable and consistent (no sudden spikes)
  • Fans, heating, or appliances do not produce a constant hum
  • There is a quiet space or room available nearby
  • People can signal before speaking to avoid startling
  • Ear defenders or noise-reducing headphones are available if needed
  • Louder activities have a scheduled time and place
  • Fire alarm / school bell location is known and predictable

Light and Visual (Visual)

  • Lighting is dimmable or can be adjusted per area
  • No fluorescent flicker in key work or rest areas
  • Surfaces are not overly cluttered or busy
  • Screens and monitors face away from direct sunlight or window glare
  • A low-stimulation corner or area exists for breaks
  • Natural light is available but controllable (blinds or curtains)
  • Signage and instructions use clear, uncluttered layout

Touch (Tactile)

  • Seating is comfortable in texture (not rough or sticky fabrics)
  • People can choose their own seating where possible
  • Sensory tools (fidgets, stress balls, textured items) are available
  • Clothing requirements (uniforms, PPE) are known in advance so adjustments can be planned
  • Queuing or crowded spaces are minimised or have a skip option
  • Unexpected touch from others is avoidable (open plan layouts reviewed)
  • Temperature is controllable (fans, layers available)

Smell (Olfactory)

  • Cleaning products and air fresheners are unscented or low-scent
  • Strong cooking smells are contained or ventilated quickly
  • There is a policy or awareness around heavy perfume or aftershave in shared spaces
  • Bins are emptied regularly and located away from workstations
  • Ventilation is adequate and controllable
  • Scented candles, diffusers, or plug-ins are avoided in shared areas

Movement (Vestibular and Proprioceptive)

  • There is space to move freely (stand, stretch, pace) without disruption
  • Movement breaks are built into schedules or available on request
  • Seating options include some with movement (wobble cushion, standing desk, rocking chair)
  • Lift access is available for those who cannot manage stairs comfortably
  • Transitions between activities are announced in advance
  • Physical activities are graded and predictable, not sudden
  • Weighted tools are used following weight and duration guidance (roughly 10% body weight, short periods)

Internal Signals (Interoception)

  • Regular meal and drink breaks are scheduled and predictable
  • Toilet access is easy, private, and not time-restricted
  • Rest areas or quiet spaces are available without needing to explain why
  • Body signal charts or visual check-in tools are available for those who find them helpful
  • Stress or overload has a visible, accessible relief route (leave room, signal for help)
  • The environment supports regulation (predictable, low-threat routine)

Taste (Gustatory)

  • Food choices include a range of textures and temperatures, not just one type
  • New foods are introduced alongside familiar safe foods, not as replacements
  • Mealtimes are low-pressure: no forced eating, visible timers, or clean-plate rules
  • Oral sensory tools (chew necklaces, pencil toppers) are available for those who need them
  • Strong flavours (spicy, sour, crunchy) are available for those who seek intense oral input

Next steps

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