Moving LED lights, low aesthetic background music, and various sensory items greet visitors as they walk through the door. A ball pit, textured wall hangings, and books about emotional regulation wait for each student in their time of need.

At Grafton’s Ruth Birch Center in Winchester, Virginia, a task team was compiled and a long, thought-out dream has become a reality. Tania Silva, Clinical Administrator, and staff from various departments and disciplines set out to make a welcoming space where any student can regulate, learn about their emotions, and engage in calming therapeutic activities. The room was designed around concepts including Zones of Regulation (a social-emotional curriculum) and the Ukeru Systems© Boiling Point.

The space for the regulation room was graciously provided by Michelle Dart, an Occupational Therapist whose office neighbors the space. Here is what Michelle had to say about why she wanted to be involved in the creation of the room and what she hopes students gain from the room.

“I wanted to be a part of the task team because I am committed to making the environment of our school supportive for all students. Some students need a calm space to help them self-regulate, relax, or take a break when things are overwhelming. This allows them to return to their classroom and be successful.

I hope the regulation room gives students a space where they feel calm and safe. A place where they can learn to use sensory strategies and other tools to self-regulate and feel more comfortable and focused on learning.”

Anytime a student wants to utilize the room, all staff need to do is find a member of the clinical team to provide access to the room. This is important to maintain the cleanliness, integrity, and purpose of the room. In addition to assisting the students in learning emotional regulation and coping skills, Speech Language Pathologist, Cassidy Kushner is excited for its assistance in communication skills.

“It is important for our students to learn how to express what ‘zone’ they may be in and what tools they may need access to while in each zone. There are visual communication books available to students when using the room as well as social stories.”

The hope for this room is to provide safety and comfort for students for many years to come.

We invite you to watch the video below and explore our regulation room!