The Bega Valley Shire Library’s upcoming Sensitive Storytime pilot program aims to inclusively cater for children with sensory processing needs who may benefit from a more controlled and lower stimulus environment.
Library Learning and Engagement Officer, Sugita Wahl said the sessions, which will be open to all children, are the result of community feedback given through the library’s recent Inclusive Practices in Storytime survey.
“We are grateful for the community response and interest in the survey,” Ms Wahl said.
“The feedback is being used to make all library programs more inclusive to children with autism and other sensory processing disorders.”
Ms Wahl said Storytime is one of the library’s most popular and enduring programs. It fosters a love of reading, teaches early literacy skills, promotes school readiness and provides social networks for children and their families.
“We’re committed to ensuring all children can fully engage in this valuable program and will continue to explore ways to ensure it is a welcoming environment accessible to all families,” Ms Wahl said.
“Our aim is to welcome new families to the library and meet the needs of children who may not have accessed our programs in the past.
“The sessions will feature a schedule board with Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) cards, the use of a visual timer and a sensory tent for children to use as a quiet space.
“Stories, songs and rhymes, gentle movement and sensory play and craft will be incorporated, and the sessions will be held in a quiet room with low lighting with a maximum of 10 children at each session.”
The initial three Sensitive Storytime sessions will be held at the Bega Library on Monday 17, 24 and 31 October from 10:30am to 11:30am.
Bookings can be made via the Bega Library website or by phoning the Library on (02) 6499 2127.
