Sensory Spaces in Fairfax County Community Centers 

Submitted By: Sydney Solomon, sydney.solomon@fairfaxcounty.gov

Location: Community Centers located in Fairfax County Virginia 

Goal of the Sensory Project: Our mission is to provide our participants with the opportunity to explore, develop, relax and enhance sensory information skills through individual sessions or group programs. 

Project Web Address: https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/neighborhood-community-services/therapeutic-recreation/sensory-room 

Narrative: Our mission in Neighborhood and Community Services is to partner with communities, families, and individuals to provide equitable access to a full range of resources that support positive outcomes for people of all ages and abilities. As we design new community centers and plan future facilities, we are committed to including dedicated sensory room spaces. Each of these spaces is thoughtfully designed to be inclusive and adaptable, serving the unique needs of individuals across all ages and abilities.

RULES AND REGULATIONS for our Spaces

1. The sensory room is designed for small group (as determined by inclusion specialist) or individual sessions and must be supervised at all times by a trained staff member.

2. Only trained staff are to turn on and turn off sensory equipment. 

3. Participants must always be supervised when in the sensory room. Staff overseeing the sensory room should not let participants pull on cords or leads.

4. Shoes must be taken off and placed on shoe rack once entering the sensory room.

5. No food, drink, or chewing gum are permitted inside the sensory room.

6. No pens, pencils, or sharp objects are permitted inside the sensory room.

7. Running or aggressive behavior is prohibited in the sensory room.

8. Please leave room in a clean and orderly condition after use.

9. Please report any broken or damaged equipment to Bekah Stone, Inclusion Specialist or Rob Webster, Service Area Manager immediately.

10.  When this room is not in use, the door must be locked at all times.

11.  Staff are to adhere to the manual for specific cleaning of equipment.

Fun and Function is not only a sensory vendor but provides a variety of education online sessions and webinars throughout the year as well as grant opportunities.

Learn Highly-Effective Strategies from Your Sensory Coach!

Supporting Materials:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1P0xxqu6_eAsUdWWLUXnfDEsu4jsi-apX/view?usp=sharing

Tips for Others Planning a Similar Project:

• Consider the population your space will cater to (ages, abilities etc.) 

• Purpose of your space (calming, stimulating, combination) 

• Consider all of your sensory systems and which ones you want displayed in your space 

• Know your budget-there are lots of companies that will do a free 2D layout and design for free. This is a great starting point. If it is way over your budget, you still have an idea and can even do a combination of different products from various vendors or try to create a DIY station of your own. Apply for grants too.