Sensory breaks – why they are important and how to implement them at school or work
- Gaudutė Žilytė
- Aug 11
- 2 min read
Sensory Breaks are short pauses from work or a stimulating environment during which one can calm down and regain inner balance. These breaks are especially beneficial for neurodivergent individuals – children with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or other sensory regulation difficulties.
Benefits:
Help regulate the nervous system, reduce anxiety, and improve attention focus.
After a sensory break, returning to tasks is much more effective, with fewer behavioral challenges and meltdowns.
Tips for implementing sensory breaks effectively:
Schedule them – after intense tasks or before starting new activities. Breaks can last from a few minutes up to 15 minutes or longer, depending on needs.
Create a sensory corner or room – a quiet, cozy space with soft furniture, thoughtful lighting, calming sounds, and various sensory objects. Such an area provides multi-sensory stimulation and helps relax during sensory overload.
Include sensory activities – this can be listening to soothing music, gentle rocking, aromatherapy, or tactile surfaces.
Use visual supports – timers, schedules, or icons that help understand when the break starts and ends. These are especially important for people who struggle to follow verbal instructions, as visuals provide clarity, predictability, and reduce anxiety.
The Neurocass chair can be a great solution when setting up a sensory corner in schools, public institutions, or workplaces. It doesn’t require a separate sensory room — it acts like a capsule that can be placed even in noisy, busy hallway areas, providing a calm and restorative space for the user.
Such breaks are not only helpful for neurodivergent individuals but beneficial for everyone: they reduce stress, improve concentration, and create a supportive, inclusive environment.
Follow our blog for practical tips on creating sensory rooms and adapting spaces for all.
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