Getting it Right with Sensory Circuits

Sometimes, the individuals in our settings may need support to regulate themselves before embarking on tasks, or to set them up for the day ahead. One way of doing this is through taking part in sensory circuits.

But what are sensory circuits and how can they be used effectively to support the people in our care?

Sensory circuits explained

Sensory circuits are sensory-focused activities that provide a controlled level of sensory input, to help individuals regulate themselves. They can facilitate effective sensory integration, a process that helps us to receive, organise and process everything that is going on, both around and within us. This process can include sight, hearing, smell, touch, and taste, as well as body position and movement (proprioception) and balance (vestibular awareness).

They can be used as part of a wider sensory ‘diet’, helping individuals develop the ability to manage their own levels of arousal.

What are the benefits of sensory circuits?

Sensory circuits can be particularly effective for those with sensory processing needs. However, they can also complement a wider positive behaviour support approach and can be used with any individual to help them achieve ‘just the right level’ of alertness. Sometimes, this can mean calming down from a heightened state, but at other times, it can involve re-energising and re-invigorating.

While sensory circuits are often associated with educational settings, they are also applicable to many other environments. Done regularly and systematically, they can help individuals to build resilience, tolerance and self-confidence, reducing the likelihood of distressed, dysregulated behaviours.

Three-tiered structure of sensory circuits

There are 3 sequential components to sensory circuits, each with a different focus:

• Alerting activities: These activities provide vestibular (movement and balance) and proprioceptive (awareness of body in space) stimulation.

• Organising activities: These activities involve motor (muscle) challenges, and require individuals to plan, organise and / or sequence movements.

• Calming activities: These activities stimulate individuals’ proprioceptive, deep pressure, and tactile senses, to calm the body.

It’s important to follow the series of activities in this order, to ensure that individuals feel optimally regulated by the end.

A typical sensory circuit session usually lasts between 15-20 minutes and can be done at any time of day, when practitioners feel that the individuals in their care may benefit from regulation support. Often, sensory circuits can be particularly useful in the mornings, to help people prepare for the day ahead.

Download our handy guide to planning and implementing sensory circuits.