Sensory Group: More than just Play

Joann Boyes from Broomhedge Methodist Church shares why they’re launching their new Sensory Space, including a Sensory Safe Space on Sundays, and a Sensory Saturdays Group

At Broomhedge Methodist church, we want to step out into the community to share God's love. The community goes beyond our congregation, and we know that for many families—especially those with very young children or children with sensory processing needs—traditional "sit-still" environments can feel a bit overwhelming. 

That’s why we are so excited to announce the launch of our Sensory Saturdays Group. 

What is a Sensory Group?

Unlike a standard playgroup, a sensory group focuses on "hands-on" engagement. We’re creating stations designed to stimulate our senses.  While we all know the classic five senses (sight, smell, hearing, taste, and touch), our group aims to support the "hidden" three that are vital for a child’s development and emotional regulation: 

• Tactile (Touch): Feeling different textures, from gooey magic mud to hard textures like Lego. 

• Visual (Sight): Exploring a variety of colourful areas of play. 

• Auditory (Sound): Discovering rhythm with action songs in our active area or relaxing music in our quiet area. 

• Olfactory (Smell): Engaging with scented playdough or scent games. 

• Gustatory (Taste): Though we focus less on eating, we explore safe "mouth-feel" play materials in case our little explorers get a little too curious. There is also snack time in the middle of each session. 

• Vestibular (Balance): Using rockers, stepping stones and balance beams to help children understand where their head is in space. 

• Proprioception (Body Awareness): Activities like "heavy work" or crawling through tunnels that help kids feel the boundaries of their own bodies. 

• Interoception (Internal Feelings): Providing a calm zone where children can learn to check in with their own bodies—identifying if they feel overwhelmed and giving them a safe place to retire to if they do. 

By engaging all eight senses, we aren't just playing; we are helping children build a stronger foundation for learning and self-regulation. It’s a space where "messy" play and discovery is encouraged and curiosity is the only requirement. 

Why are we doing this?

Our mission has always been to serve God in our community, and through my own personal experience working in schools I noticed a gap that we could fill. I want everyone to know Christ's love for them. In a world where there is so much uncertainty as a church, we can provide balance and security. 

Many parents in our local nursery and primary schools are looking for: 

• Inclusive Environments: A place where children with autism or sensory sensitivities feel safe and understood. 

• Brain-Boosting Play: Sensory play is proven to build nerve connections in the brain’s pathways, supporting language development and fine motor skills. 

• Connection for Parents: Raising children is a marathon. This group provides a relaxed space for parents to grab a cuppa and chat while their kids explore safely. 

What to Expect

Each month, our church hall will be transformed into a discovery zone featuring: 

• Texture Tubs: Pasta, oats, rice, Cous cous sand and "magic mud" and many more. 

• The Calm Corner: A quiet area with weighted blankets, bean bags, and fidget tools for when a child needs a "break" from the stimulation. 

• Active area: Tunnels and balance beams to help primary-aged kids get their energy out in a focused way. 

How to Join Us

You don’t need to be a member of our church to attend—this is for the whole community! Whether your child is 3 or 10 years old, there is something here for them. 

• When: The second Saturday of the month. 

• Where: Broomhedge Methodist church hall. 

• Cost: Free (donations optional) 

 We can’t wait to see the joy, the mess, and the new friendships that will grow in this space. Let’s explore together! 

Psalm 127:3 – ‘Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him.’