Creating a Sensory Retreat in the Outdoor Classroom
"Regulation is the foundation of everything else that we do," explains Erin Clarelli, M.S., OTR/L and CEO of Sunrise Therapies.
In the outdoor classroom, children encounter a rich array of sights, sounds, and sensory input. While this environment is essential for open-ended play and exploration, it can sometimes be overwhelming. In this video, Erin discusses how The Outlast Haven serves as a necessary, predictable retreat for children experiencing dysregulation. Designed with sturdy wood construction, calming natural light, and a semi-enclosed structure, the Haven provides the physical and proprioceptive input children need to ground their nervous systems. Most importantly, it empowers children to recognize when they need a break and autonomously access a safe space without adult prompting.
