The Ashling Hotel in Dublin has introduced a sensory family bedroom designed to cater specifically to children and families staying at the hotel to provide a sensory-sensitive space, making them the first in the capital to offer such a facility.
Located near hospitals like St James’ Hospital, where families often stay for medical appointments, the hotel’s partnership with autism awareness charity As I Am inspired the creation of this tailor-made family bedroom suite focused on sensory experiences.
The room aims to positively engage all five senses and offers additional support to families, including those dealing with Autism, Dementia, or ADHD challenges, by providing a space where children with sensory sensitivities can relax and regulate their environments comfortably.
Equipped with features such as LED Bubble Tube, weighted lap pads, vibrating cushions, mood cubes, aroma diffusers, fidget boxes, and more, the sensory room promotes relaxation, focus, socialization, and communication skills, enhancing the overall stay experience for families with sensory-sensitive individuals.
Ronan Walsh, Managing Director and General Manager of the Ashling Hotel said “the room will provide a positive effect on all five senses and was designed to offer further support to families staying at the hotel. Many families who visit the hotel have Autism, Dementia or ADHD difficulties for one or more children and through our many years of engaging with them we determined that it would be beneficial for them to have this space at the hotel. We constantly strive to think outside the box, to offer our guests a little extra that will help to make their stay more enjoyable. Having a child with a sensory sensitive condition is always a huge challenge when a family chooses to stay in an Hotel, we are delighted we chose to address this in a meaningful way and proud that Adam & As I Am believe this bedroom will significantly help any parent and child staying in the Ashling. Being so close to Heuston train station, yet in the city, The Ashling is a perfect location to stay and now another stressful scenario is addressed and families can actually look forward to bring a child with Sensory difficulties too. Parents of children who have a disability deserve a night away where they can have an enjoyable stay where they feel reassured their child will be relaxed. Studies have shown that sensory rooms can help improve focus, reduces stress & anxiety whilst also encouraging socialising, developing communication skills.”
