The THF team was proud to deliver a grant to the Heart of Illinois Special Recreation Association (HISRA), enabling the addition of a sensory room equipped with a range of elements to ensure comprehensive sensory engagement for those who visit their facility. The room will include visual stimulation, auditory experiences, tactile exploration and vestibular stimulation.
"When sensory needs are met, we maximize opportunities for learning, independence and friendships," said executive director Katie Hogan Van Cleve.
The multi-sensory environment will feature items including a large razzle dazzle marble wall LED panel, a tactile busy board, a magic hands heat sensitive activity wall panel, a medium sized water panel, and an ultra violet waterfall.
"While our core focus lies in recreation, our mission extends beyond play to encompass skill development, adaptive learning, experiential learning tailored to individual needs, and play-based education with certified special education teachers on staff," Karen Haney wrote in HISRA's grant application. "A sensory room would help support physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being of individuals who have increasingly demonstrated a drastic need for therapeutic interaction with multi-sensory stimulation."
She added that a primary goal is to ensure that everyone can access tailored sensory experiences that enrich their lives and support their physical, cognitive, emotional, and social well-being. The addition of a sensory room will help to improve concentration and encourage gross and fine motor skills development.
"We know we are successful if participants experience the pleasure of play, find comfort and improve their sensory processing skills," she said. "This allows us to continue providing unparalleled opportunities for growth, engagement and inclusivity within our community."
About HISRA
HISRA is the result of a desire on the part of the Chillicothe, Morton, Peoria and Washington park districts to provide quality recreation programs and services to individuals with disabilities and special needs. HISRA and its member districts enthusiastically support the spirit and intent of the Americans With Disabilities Act. HISRA is committed to providing opportunities for each individual to enjoy recreation activities in the least restrictive environment possible.