Highline recently unveiled their new Reflection Room, located on the fifth floor of the library in room 512, which aims to provide a sensory haven for students.
On the busy campus of Highline College, it can sometimes feel challenging for students to find a quiet space to decompress and recharge, especially for neurodivergent students who need to find a space that is not overstimulating. That’s why the Reflection Room is such an essential addition to campus.
According to Jenni Sandler, Highline’s associate dean for accessibility resources, the inspiration came from recognizing needs on campus. “The number of neurodivergent students that we serve on campus…we [access services] saw this empty office, and asked if we could have it for this purpose,” she explained.
Highline student resources page
Markers, pens, and various types of fidget toys for students to use.
The space features weighted blankets, textured pillows, lava lamps, fidget toys, coloring books, yoga mats, and more. Soft lighting and white noise machines cultivate a peaceful atmosphere.
Centrally located on the fifth floor of the library, the room is open to all students on a drop-in basis with no reservations required. It promises a valuable resource for mental health and wellbeing on campus.
Complementing this space, a Quiet Reflection Room with prayer mats is available in Building 23, room 114, donated by Highline’s Muslim Student Association.
As finals approach, the Reflection Room offers students a much-needed sanctuary. The sensory objects and calming atmosphere create the perfect environment for a mindful study break. For busy students, it provides a place to pause, breathe, and regain perspective.
Looking ahead, Sandler aims to continue expanding Highline’s sensory spaces and accessibility services. “I would love to have more than one reflection room…I would love to have another space or even just a larger space,” Sandler said.
Central to these efforts is empowering neurodivergent students to advocate for their needs. As Sandler shared, “The best thing students who are neurodivergent can do to help make Highline better for them is to form a group/club or neurodiverse student union.”
In the meantime, the Reflection Room gratefully accepts donations from the campus community to enhance the space. “We would always take donations…I think lots of different fidgets would be best,” Sandler noted.
For those who use it, the room has already made a significant difference. “I have a disability, my advisor suggested the use of this room as a place that could help me…I personally enjoy the thinking putty best, but there are a bunch of other fidgets available in the room,” shared one student. “I use it as a space to self-stimulate and freely stim.”
This user goes on to recommend the Reflection Room to others, saying the space can benefit all types of students. The initial small room may not seem like much, but for neurodivergent students, it makes a big difference.
By providing a sanctuary for sensory needs and self-care, Highline’s Reflection Room helps tear down barriers to learning. The welcoming atmosphere promotes the wellbeing and dignity of all students. On a bustling commuter campus, it offers a simple comfort that allows neurodivergent minds to thrive.
