I discovered the non-profit organization Friends of Children With Special Needs (FCSN), which supports individuals with special needs, and through it, I volunteered in numerous daycare sessions to help these children develop their social skills. During these sessions, I observed many students struggling with tasks involving motor skills, dexterity, and senses—such as molding clay, sensitivity to bright lights, and mixing ingredients—which inspired me to create a solution addressing this challenge. The purpose of my project is to create an inclusive and supportive environment that helps special needs individuals strengthen their sensory, motor, and dexterity skills, skills that are essential for daily living. With this in mind for my Girl Scout Gold Award Project I decided to create a Sensory room and STEAM Curriculum for FCSN.
The sensory room I created at the San Jose FCSN center is a welcoming space designed to help their students with special needs develop sensory, motor, and dexterity skills. It includes hands-on materials like locks, keys, ropes, clay models, and lava lamps that encourage exploration and coordination. The room provides a calm, engaging environment where students can build confidence, learn through play, and practice important life skills.
Provide a safe, calming space for emotional regulation with soothing colors, lighting, and calming tools.
Enhance sensory integration and engagement through multi-sensory stations and interaction tools.
Support communication and social skills with guided sessions and facilitator presence.
Create an inclusive and accessible environment with wheelchair access and tools for a range of sensory needs.
STEAM Curriculum: The STEAM curriculum is a tailored learning approach that I created to integrate Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics in a way that promotes creativity and hands-on learning while helping special needs individuals improve their dexterity and motor skills. At FCSN, I teach this curriculum to special needs students through fun, interactive activities that strengthen coordination, sensory awareness, and problem-solving skills. By combining education with engaging, hands-on experiences, my STEAM program creates an inclusive space where students can explore, build confidence, and enjoy learning in their own unique ways.
Hi! I’m Saanvi Shah, a high school student who’s passionate about creativity, learning, and making a difference. I love writing and photography, and I try to connect my personal values, such as empathy and kindness, with causes that help others. Through this website, I hope to share what inspires me and encourage others to appreciate and understand neurodiversity.
