Kids First opens multi sensory room at Heidelberg Family Centre

A special multi-sensory room, designed to enhance parent and child attachments, and a playful and imaginative children’s garden are two new features which were launched at Kids First’s Heidelberg Child and Family Centre earlier this week. 

The 23 October launch coincided with National Children’s Week and was attended by students from the neighbouring Olympic Village Primary School, Kids First clients, community partners and representatives from philanthropic organisations that contributed to the sensory room development.

Kids First CEO, Ms Aileen Ashford, said the organisation is excited about the value these new spaces will offer clients.

“Evidence shows that children’s therapy can be enhanced through the introduction of elements that explore the senses. For example, when caregivers and children enter the sensory room together, they can explore what works for each of them in the area of relaxation, self-regulation and communication – and this can strengthen their attachment.”

The sensory room was made possible through the support of grants from Helen Macpherson Smith Trust ($30k) and The Brockhoff Foundation ($37k) and the Commonwealth Bank Staff Social Club ($10k). 

The room features coloured lighting, tactile objects and sounds that can be experienced by caregivers and children, under the guidance of their Kids First practitioner.

The Children’s Garden has been designed by Mary Jeavons Landscape Architects and includes a water feature, outdoor furniture and room for creative play.

“Both spaces may be incorporated into sessions with our clients and add to the diversity of experiences that we design, all underpinned by our objective of resourcing families so that children and young people can thrive” Ms Ashford said.