A crucial aspect of supporting children’s mental health is to create a safe and supportive home environment.

With this topic gaining increasing visibility, it is important to teach children not only about the about the importance of mental health, but also to provide them with the tools they need to maintain it.

One of the most effective ways to facilitate this is for parents to model good mental health behaviour themselves – to talk openly about mental health, prioritise self-care and ask for help when needed.

It is also vital that parents listen without judgement. Dismissing a child’s feelings or criticising them can damage self-esteem, invalidate feelings and cause a child to withdraw. Being present for your child, providing structure and routine and creating a space where they feel able to express themselves freely are highly effective tools in promoting good mental health.

For neurodivergent individuals, meeting sensory needs is an important part of managing everyday wellbeing and creating an environment that supports positive mental health. Every child will process sensory information differently. Establishing a sensory safe space at home based on the unique needs of the individual child can provide a relaxing atmosphere where they are surrounded by their own personal positive sensations.

How to create a Sensory Safe Space

Space: this may be a separate room, the corner of a bedroom, under the stairs or a tent set up indoors.
Lighting: what colours and strength of lighting are most comfortable for you? Do you prefer purple or blue lights? Warm or cool white? Fairy lights, galaxy projectors and cool lamps can all be used to create the right balance.

Motion and Movement: think about the sensory input you need in the moment. Would you be more comfortable sitting still on a bean bag wrapped up in a blanket, swinging in a chair or bouncing on an exercise ball? Include a few seating options, cushions and blankets so that you always have choice.

What to Include: fill your safe space with favourite things and sensory items that invoke your personal sense of calm and comfort. Ideas might include: fidget toys; weighted blanket; headphones; chewellery; favourite aromas, pictures and affirmations; soothing music and sound machine; puzzles, slime or putty. Consider keeping items grouped in separate containers and rotating them to avoid overstimulation or boredom.