Creating a cosy, inviting sensory area can make such a big difference for learners with special needs. A dark den gives learners a space where they can feel safe, calm, and curious all at the same time. Whether you’re setting one up in a classroom, therapy room or even at home, here are a few simple tips and some brilliant resources to help you build the perfect sensory area.
Start with the Right Den for Your Space
The first step is choosing the den that fits your needs best. Here’s some options we have:
Dark Den
The Dark Den is a great all-rounder. It’s compact, affordable and brilliant for individual use in smaller spaces.
Giant Dark Den
Got a bit more room? The Giant Dark Den is fantastic for group work or when you want to fit in extra equipment.
Projection Tent
Now, the Projection Tent is a bit different. It’s not a blackout den, it’s designed for visual effects. Think colourful lights, moving patterns and projections. It’s ideal for projectors like our Laser Star Projector or the Ocean Wave Projector (included in the Jumbo Sensory Bundle), which really come to life on the tent’s surface.
All of these are easy to pop up, pack down, and sturdy enough to last.
Add Some Lovely Sensory Kits
Once your den’s up, you’ll want to fill it with items that encourage curiosity, calm and hands-on play:
Dark Den Resources Kit One
The Dark Den Resources Kit One is packed with tactile and light-up goodies made especially for darkened environments.
Dark Den Colourful Bundle
The Dark Den Colourful Bundle is a bright and beautiful collection of glowing and colour-changing items to keep little ones engaged.
Jumbo Sensory Bundle
If you’re looking to go big, the Jumbo Sensory Bundle is brilliant. It’s full of tactile, visual and auditory resources, including the Ocean Wave Projector for a mesmerising sensory experience.
All these bundles are put together to give you a mix of sensory options without needing to search around.
Add a Bit of Interactive Fun
Tech can really enhance your sensory area too. HelpKidzLearn's Sensory Space software is a lovely way to include interactive online sensory activities specifically designed for students with special educational needs. Sensory Space follows a clear development structure – moving from early cause and effect understanding through to decision-making and independent exploration. Simply pop a tablet or screen inside the den and let learners explore relaxing animations and sounds in their own time.
Sensory Flooring
LED Sensory Carpets are a great way to create a soothing, multi-sensory experiences. Our Square 95cm option looks great inside our Dark Den and Giant Dark Den – providing twinkling LED lights to enhance the calming and engaging feel.
Another option is our UV Mat – designed to enhance play and exploration in dark den environments. It features vibrant colours that glow brightly under UV light.
A Few Helpful Tips
Making your dark den the best it can be doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it’s the little touches that make all the difference. Here are a few friendly tips that might help:
Stick to a routine: Try to use the den at the same time each day if you can. Routine helps learners know what to expect, which can be very reassuring.
Tailor it to the child: Think about what each learner enjoys. Some might love twinkling lights, while others prefer soft textures or calming sounds.
Set the mood: Soft music, gentle lighting, or even a favourite soft toy can help create a comforting atmosphere.
Keep it clutter-free: Too many items can be overwhelming. Rotate resources to keep the space fresh but not overstimulating.
Use it as a quiet space: If things get a bit much, the dark den can be a perfect little escape. Let learners use it as a quiet zone when they need a break.
Get learners involved: If appropriate, let the individual help choose items for the den. It can give them a sense of ownership and make the space feel even more special.
Why It’s Worth It
Creating sensory areas can be incredibly valuable as well as fun. They give learners a chance to:
Step away from overwhelming environments.
Regulate their emotions and feel more in control.
Explore, play and practise skills in a safe, engaging space.
Whether you’re just getting started or want to refresh your setup, our range of dark dens, sensory bundles and interactive software is here to help. We’ve made it easy to create a space where learners can relax, explore and thrive.
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Please note there are penalties for making false declarations
You declare that you (or the person for whom you are purchasing the products on behalf of) are chronically sick or disabled*
The products that you are purchasing are eligible to be supplied at a zero rate of VAT**
The products that you are purchasing are being supplied to you (or the person for whom you are purchasing the products on behalf of) for domestic or personal use only***
You (or the person for whom you are purchasing the products on behalf of) do not have to be registered disabled, but the nature of the illness or disablement must be specified below.
If you are in any doubt as to whether you are eligible to receive goods or services zero-rated for VAT you should consult Notice 701/7 VAT reliefs for disabled people or contact the National Advice Service on 0845 010 9000 before digitally signing the declaration.
