Sensory adventures for SEND children in libraries across Central Bedfordshire
Wednesday, 22 May 2024
Children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) are being taken on a journey beyond imagination in a world of sensory wonder at their local libraries.
Thanks to the part-funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) and us, performances by Full House Theatre, a National Portfolio Organisation, are captivating audiences with a series of interactive shows designed to transport their audience on unforgettable journeys.
From the enchanting depths of the misty rainforest to the vast expanses of the desert and beyond, 82 children and their families have already embarked on thrilling expeditions unlike any other told through a unique blend of music, storytelling, and sensory play.
Created especially for children and young people with complex learning and profound physical needs, each show is meticulously adapted to cater to the unique requirements of every participant.
Councillor Mary Walsh, Central Bedfordshire Council’s Chairman of the Local Partnership Group said,
What sets these performances apart is their inclusivity. All children love a good story, and I am sure that every child attending one of these performances will forever hold a treasured memory of the show. The SEND activities have proved a real success with the children and their families, and we’ll be looking to see how we can continue these wonderful creative arts opportunities in libraries.
Harriet Hardie, Creative Director of Full House Theatre said:
Delivering the Sensory Adventures project in Central Bedfordshire libraries has been a total pleasure. Each week we meet wonderful children and young people who love exploring the fantastical worlds we have created for them. There’s always something in our sensory toolkit of puppets, music and special effects that works for everyone, regardless of their age, disability, or sensory need. The Full House creative team and I are really looking forward to delivering more sessions in the coming months.
Here’s what some of the parents had to say:
The immersive Jungle experience was very inclusive for children with SEN. The staff were very supportive and kind and encouraging.
This was amazing my son so enjoyed and the team was very kind and professional. I am really thankful to the team.
[My son] enjoyed his sensory jungle adventure. It would be lovely for more sessions like this to happen regularly as he was enjoying them more near the end as he became more regulated.
Fantastic offering and staff were brilliant it might feel like too much in the space of time as my son has slow processing. Would definitely book again as my son will get used to it. Have already booked the other two.
Wonderful experience. Staff are so attentive and knew exactly how to deal with my autistic children. I highly recommend and will defo tell the school friends. Thank you, great way to spend a Sunday morning.
Full House Theatre has received £30,000 from the UK Government funding through our UK Shared Prosperity Fund Community Grants Programme together with funding from us of £15,000.
We have been allocated £3.55 million from the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities UKSPF programme which is being delivered alongside their £1.06 million allocation from DEFRA’s Rural England Prosperity Fund.