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The Importance of Specialised Furniture for Neurodiverse Kids

With autism and other neurodivergent conditions affecting around one in every 54 children, furniture that is specifically designed for neurodiverse kids is becoming increasingly popular because it is designed with students’ unique needs in mind to make a difference in their daily lives.

What is Neurodiversity?

Neurodiversity is a term used to describe the natural variation in the human brain. It recognizes that people's brains are wired differently, and that this is not a defect, but rather a normal variation in the human experience. Neurodiversity can include conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and Tourette's syndrome, among others.

 

Why is Specialised Furniture Important for Neurodiverse Kids?

Neurodiverse kids have different sensory needs and sensitivities than their neurotypical peers. They may be hypersensitive to certain textures or sounds, or they may crave certain types of sensory input. Furniture that is designed with these needs in mind can help them feel more comfortable and supported in their living spaces.

For example, some students may benefit from furniture that provides deep pressure, such as beanbag chairs or weighted blankets. Others may need furniture that is designed to minimize sensory input, such as soundproofing or blackout curtains.

This specialised furniture can also be designed to be more durable and resistant to wear and tear, which is important for kids who may be more active or rough with their furniture. Safety also needs to be especially considered and include features such as rounded edges or non-slip surfaces to protect the students.

 

The importance of Proprioceptive

Proprioception, our "sixth sense," is the sensory system that helps us understand our body's position and movement in space. It relies on receptors in our muscles, tendons, and joints that send signals to the brain about our body's position, movement, and the amount of force exerted.

In daily life, proprioception enables us to walk, reach for objects, and maintain balance without constantly looking at our limbs. It also helps us adjust the force and coordination of our movements based on the feedback received from the proprioceptive system.

For kids with sensory processing difficulties or neurodiverse conditions, the proprioceptive system may not function optimally, leading to challenges with motor skills, coordination, and body awareness.Incorporating proprioceptive elements in furniture and learning spaces can make a significant difference for the students.

Here are some examples of amazing furniture pieces perfect for developing inclusive learning spaces:   

1. Sensory Chairs:Sensory chairs are designed to provide deep pressure and proprioceptive input, which can help regulate the nervous system and improve focus. These chairs often have a wide base for stability and are filled with foam or other materials that provide firm support.

2. Soundproofing Panels:Soundproofing panels can be placed on walls or ceilings to help reduce noise levels in a room. This can be helpful for neurodiverse kids who may be hypersensitive to sound.

3. Wobble Chairs:Wobble chairs are designed to allow for movement while sitting, which can help improve focus and concentration. These chairs often have a rounded base that allows them to tilt and rock without tipping over.

4. Rocking Chairs:Rocking chairs can provide a calming and rhythmic motion that can help regulate the nervous system. They can be used for relaxation or to improve focus and concentration.

5. Tactile Mats:Tactile mats are mats with different textures and materials for kids to explore and touch. They can be used for sensory play and exploration and can help improve tactile awareness and sensitivity.

 

Tailored furniture for neurodiverse children can significantly impact their day-to-day experiences. By offering furniture designed specifically for their distinct needs, these kids can enjoy greater comfort and support in their living environments.

Let us help you create the perfect space for them!

For more information about neurodiversity and how you can get involved, visit: https://www.neurodiversityweek.com/ 

 

Our Projects: The King's College

 

The Lighthouse Studio at The King’s College was part of their inclusive education upgrade. It was designed to create a safe space for students to be able to retreat and seek assistance without any stigma.

With an understanding of our client's needs, we were able to produce a great result. Our project design lead, Amanda, worked closely with the school team and presented them with layouts and 3D renders so they could visualize how their ideas would look in reality.

 

A neutral colour palette was selected for this space to create a sense of calm. The colours are subtle and inviting, and they help to create a serene environment.
The neutral finishes, which were selected from Warwick's Beachcomber fabric range, and the Laminex commercial range, which is made here in Australia, combine perfectly to create a welcoming scene with light blues, teals, greys, and elegant oak woodgrain features.
The fabric was Scotch guarded to improve the durability of the light colours. This helps to protect the furniture by guarding against wear and tear, and keep it looking its best for longer.
Bean Bags, neuitral colours, seating, sof furnishing for students Classroom renovation, student chairs, desks, blue and gray We enjoyed transforming this classroom into an educational space that students can feel comfortable and safe in. We know that the right furniture selection and finishes can assist in making a difference in a students' education experience.

At Office Line, we strive to only use furniture and materials made here in Australia. We want every student to have the best possible experience while they're at school, and we believe that starts with the spaces they spend their time in every day. 

 

Office Line is proud to be part of inclusive projects like this, where the spaces which we help to create, allow students to find their inner greatness.

If you have a space that needs enhancing, give us a call 1800 333 116 or email us info@officeline.com.au

Our experts are ready to assist you on the journey. 

 

Emmanuel College - McAuley Library

Emmanuel College Warrnambool is a dynamic Catholic learning Community that is growing its reputation as an education leader, and we are proud to have worked with them over a number of years.

The McAuley Library is an exciting and welcoming space with many different collaborative and focus areas, for both staff and students. The refurbished building includes modern spaces for classes, a relaxed area for students wishing to study or have a game of chess, and functional spaces for small group work.

National Futureschools Event 2019 - Melbourne Exhibition & Convention Centre

Office Line exhibited at the National Futureschools conferences and expo in Melbourne this year, showcasing some of our market leading furniture, and our knowledge of learning areas, at this world class event. Read more.

Our Projects: Ridge View Secondary College

Office Line is proud to have provided our product for the newly completed Ridge View Secondary College in collaboration with Parry & Rosenthal Architects & the Department of Education.

Project News: Emmanuel Catholic College

 

Office Line recently provided interior design services and supplied bespoke furniture solutions for Emmanuel Catholic College's new learning areas.