A multisensory room that provides children with autism a safe space to relax, regulate their emotions, and reconnect at their own pace.
CAPAL asbl, headquartered in Libramont-Chevigny in the Province of Luxembourg, operates La Porte Bleue, a therapeutic and diagnostic center for approximately 50 children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The center serves young people from birth through age 21 and provides therapeutic, educational, and developmental support tailored to some of the most complex and least visible needs in the region.
The team of eight full-time professionals works daily with children who face significant challenges with sensory integration, emotional regulation, and communication. In a region where specialized autism services remain scarce, families often travel long distances to access appropriate support.
When calm is the starting point
Children with ASD often experience the world as overwhelming. Everyday environments can be too noisy, too bright, or too unpredictable. What they need—even before learning or building relationships becomes possible—is a space where sensory input is reduced and no performance is expected.
With support from UFB, La Porte Bleue was able to set up a Snoezelen room on its premises: a specially designed multisensory environment featuring soft lighting, soothing sounds, and a variety of textures, where children can explore at their own pace, accompanied by a professional. This evidence-based approach is widely used in the field of autism, but it was not available at the center prior to this project.
The impact is both qualitative and quantitative. Sessions in the Snoezelen room have helped reduce stress and anxiety, decrease episodes of agitation, and improve emotional regulation. A calmer child is also more open to forming relationships, learning, and participating in educational and social life—effects that extend far beyond the room itself.
The Snoezelen room is designed for children with autism spectrum disorders, a particularly vulnerable group due to difficulties with communication, emotional regulation, and sensory integration. It helps reduce stress and anxiety, decrease agitation, and improve emotional regulation. The resulting sense of calm allows children to be more receptive to social interaction, facilitating a bond with their caregiver and, more broadly, openness toward others.
– Stéphanie Rutten, Fundraising Coordinator, CAPAL asbl
Working Together for a More Inclusive Society
Behind every project like this one are donors who made it possible.
Help us make a difference.