Essential Non-Musical Tools for Sensory Support in Music Therapy Sessions

How do we use nonmusical tools to support sensory needs in music therapy sessions? 

When we think about sensory support in music therapy, we often jump straight to instruments, movement, or sound-based interventions. But before we even get to the music, there’s something just as important to consider: how our clients experience and process sensory input.

Over the years, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned about working with individuals who have unique sensory needs is that a thorough assessment is key. Are they sensory seekers, craving movement and stimulation? Or are they sensory avoiders, overwhelmed by too much input? Knowing this ahead of time can help create a therapeutic space that feels safe, comfortable, and adaptable.

In this post, we’ll walk through three essential steps: first, understanding the sensory needs of your clients; second, designing a sensory-safe space using non-musical tools to provide comfort and facilitate regulation; and third, being prepared to adjust as needs shift throughout the session. 

From fidget toys to weighted blankets, lighting adjustments to seating options, these tools can help create a supportive environment. Because in the end, no matter how well we plan, life happens—and having the right sensory support in place can make all the difference for our clients.

Understanding Sensory Needs

Spending time observing your clients will provide invaluable insight into their sensory needs, especially whether they are sensory seekers or avoiders. 

A sensory seeker has a high threshold for sensory input, meaning they crave intense sensations to feel regulated. In children, this can sometimes lead to risky or disorganized behaviors as they try to meet their sensory needs. They may constantly move, seek out bright lights and bold textures or colors, or be drawn to strong smells and tastes. Their actions are often aimed toward stimulating their senses and maintaining a high level of arousal. 

Because of their high energy and need for input, sensory seekers may fidget frequently and sometimes be labeled as “difficult” or “troublemakers”. However, understanding their sensory profile helps shift our perspective. These children aren’t “acting out”; they’re simply trying to regulate their bodies the best way they know how. 

By contrast, sensory avoiders can be hypersensitive to the sensory input around them, often looking to reduce or shield themselves from overwhelming stimuli. They may become distressed by bright lights, loud noises, certain textures, or unexpected touch. In children this can look like covering their ears in loud environments, avoiding certain fabrics or foods, or needing overall quieter, more controlled spaces. 

Because they can appear easily overwhelmed, sensory avoiders may exhibit anxious behaviors, irritability, or resistance to group activities. However, this isn’t defiance, it’s an instinctive response to their environment and an effort to protect themselves from sensory overload. 

It’s important to remember that no individual is exclusively a sensory seeker or avoider. A child may crave increased auditory and tactile input but feel overwhelmed by bright, flashing lights. Recognizing the unique sensory profiles is key to designing a therapeutic space that feels safe and supportive for clients to fully engage in music therapy without feeling overstimulated or disconnected. 

Creating a Sensory-Safe Environment 

One of the most important aspects of creating a sensory-safe environment is obtaining consent from clients before introducing specific accommodations for their sensory needs. When we honor their preferences and involve them in these decisions, we begin to build trust, allowing the therapeutic space to feel safe and supportive. 

A sensory-friendly space doesn’t have to be complicated. It can be created using simple, non-musical tools that support a variety of auditory, tactile, visual, and proprioceptive needs. 

Below is a chart with practical ideas to help tailor your space for individual sensory preferences.

One additional tool is scent. Check with clients and their caregivers for any preferences or sensitivities prior to using these and ensure any scents used are mild and not overpowering. 

Purpose: Provide calming or stimulating sensory input through smell to help with focus or regulation.

Best For: Sensory seekers or avoiders, those needing emotional regulation through scents

Examples: essential oils such as lavender for calming, citrus or peppermint for focus; scented playdough; candles or diffusers; items with a preferred smell – Diffuse calming scents in the therapy room or provide scented playdough for tactile and olfactory engagement.

Ready to Create a Supportive, Sensory-Safe Environment?

Incorporating nonmusical elements into your music therapy sessions can make a world of difference in meeting your clients’ sensory needs and helping them feel safe and supported during their music therapy sessions. 

If you found these tips helpful, consider downloading the printable version of this guide to keep in your music therapy toolbox.

If you're looking for more creative ways to enhance your music therapy sessions be sure to check out Episode 62 of the Music For Kiddos Podcast for ideas on incorporating props. For even more insights, Episodes 44 and 45 dive into sensory seekers and avoiders—perfect for tailoring your sessions to individual needs.

And don't forget to share your favorite sensory support tools or experiences in the comments below — we'd love to hear how you create a sensory-friendly environment in your sessions!