In a bid to provide a more inclusive experience for children with special educational needs (SEN), Cornwall Libraries has introduced sensory story kits aimed at fostering interaction with stories. These kits are specifically designed to engage children through multiple senses, including sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste. They also include experiences that involve temperature and balance, providing a more immersive storytelling experience.

Five Sensory Kits and Additional Resources Available for Borrowing

The library system has purchased five sensory story kits that contain various props and materials to help children connect with the narrative through sensory engagement. In addition to the kits, standalone books that allow for the creation of personalized sensory stories are now available for borrowing. This expanded resource ensures that a diverse range of sensory experiences is accessible to all children, particularly those with SEN.

Improved Accessibility and Reach for More Children

According to Nastassia Player, the library resources co-ordinator at Cornwall Libraries, the introduction of sensory stories allows the library service to cater to a wider audience and reach more people, including those with SEN. The stories can be conveniently reserved online and picked up from any library location in Cornwall, providing easy access to those who might benefit from this type of interactive storytelling.

Engaging Story Sessions at Local Libraries, Including Camborne

In addition to the kits, some libraries, such as Camborne, are hosting special sensory story sessions where children can interact directly with the sensory kits. This initiative helps to create a more dynamic and engaging environment for children, encouraging them to actively participate in the storytelling process. The sessions have proven to be an important resource for children who might otherwise struggle to connect with traditional books.

Significant Impact on Children's Engagement with Stories

Susan Arthur, a parent whose daughter, Molly, participates in sensory story sessions at Camborne Library, shared that the kits significantly improved her daughter’s engagement with the story. Rather than passively looking at the book, Molly now interacts more actively with the narrative, making the experience more meaningful and enjoyable for her.

Sensory Kits Show Real Impact in Engaging Children with Special Needs

Joanna Grace, the author of some of the sensory stories featured in the kits, highlighted the profound impact these stories can have on children’s engagement. She recounted a moment from a sensory story session at a school in Manchester, where a child who appeared to be unresponsive in their wheelchair showed a positive reaction at the end of the story. The child smiled and lifted their head, something the staff had never witnessed before, illustrating the transformative effect of sensory storytelling.

Cornwall Libraries Emphasize Accessibility and Inclusion for All

Cornwall Libraries is committed to making its resources as accessible as possible to everyone, ensuring that no child is left out of the storytelling experience. The introduction of sensory story kits is a testament to the library’s ongoing efforts to provide services that cater to children with diverse needs, fostering an environment where every child can experience the joy of reading and storytelling.