Designing Learning Spaces for Neurodiverse Children: Key Considerations

Diversity and inclusivity in learning environments is a topic that is at the heart of our work in creating empowering and multifunctional learning furniture inspired by educators and learners’ needs. This article is written by our inhouse learning consultant Kelly Rosensweet.

At a time when 1 in 5 children in the United States are estimated to be neurodivergent and our understanding of neurodiversity deepens, the need for learning environments that are inclusive and supportive of neurodiverse children has never been more important.

For those still unfamiliar with neurodiversity, it refers to the natural range of differences in how people’s brains function and process information, encompassing a range of conditions such as autism spectrum disorder or ASD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD, dyslexia, and sensory processing disorders, among others.

Each of these conditions presents unique challenges and strengths, which means that a one-size-fits-all approach to learning and to learning space design can be not only ineffective but also harmful.

Here are key questions to consider when designing a learning environment with neurodiverse learners:

• • What role does inclusivity play in your learning space?
  • How can your space become more inclusive of diverse learners? What might you want to introduce/change?
  • What challenges do some students face in your space?
  • How can you better support neurodiverse learners?

Creating a supportive environment

When we design spaces for neurodiverse children we must think beyond accessibility; it’s about creating an environment where every child can thrive.

Key considerations:

While teaching middle school English Language Arts, I observed how neurodiverse children experience the world and I gained valuable insight into their sensory challenges. At the same time, I also saw the incredible strengths they bring to the table, like exceptional memory, creativity, and a unique approach to problem-solving.

These strengths and challenges offer a valuable map to designing learning spaces that truly support all students. Here’s what I felt was essential to consider:

• • Sensory Needs: Some children are sensitive to light, sound, or textures.
  • Focus and Attention: Some children have trouble focusing or staying on task.
  • Social Interaction: Some children struggle with social skills.
  • Routine: Many children benefit from predictable routines.
  • Strengths: Neurodiverse children often have exceptional memory, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

As I explored the learning environment’s role in engaging with neurodiversity, it became clear to me that the environment itself can either support or hinder a child’s ability to focus, engage, and learn. A poorly designed learning space—one that is overly noisy, visually cluttered, or inflexible—can cause anxiety, create stress, or be distracting. In contrast, a well-designed space allows children to self-regulate, engage with their peers, and access the resources they need to succeed. You can find suggestions and tips for adapting your learning space below.

Designing for success

When designing your classroom or learning space, how do you prioritize sensory needs? Are there areas where you can introduce more flexibility, calming colors, or quiet zones? The changes don’t have to be huge, but every thoughtful tweak can make a world of difference.

Sensory needs: Use adjustable lighting, quiet zones, natural wood tones, and calming textures.
Choice: Include areas for movement, solo work, and group work. Incorporating furniture elements that are flexible and multi-functional to offer user choice is helpful here.
Visual cues: Use schedules and clearly marked zones to make transitions smoother.
Emotional support: Provide private spaces for de-escalation.

Quick tip: Start with one small change, like dimming the lights or adding tactile objects, and see how your students respond.

Collaboration is key

The best learning spaces evolve with the needs of each child. Collaborate with families, educators, therapists, and specialists to create a truly supportive environment.

Quick tip: Reflect on how you currently collaborate with others? What could you do differently?

Take action today

What’s one change you can make to your classroom to better support neurodiverse learners?

Let’s keep the conversation going

We’d love to hear your ideas and continue working together to build inclusive learning spaces where every child can succeed! Contact us with your questions and thoughts and our inhouse learning consultant will answer your queries.

Featured learning environments 

• Caulfield Elementary, British Columbia, Canada
• Creekside Creative Academy, Alberta, Canada
• One Hundred Worlds Preschool, Alberta, Canada