A LOCAL school has installed a sensory garden and play area to assist its students’ development, thanks to a donation from a well-known children’s charity.
Variety the Children’s Charity granted Berri Primary School with the play area, which was valued at $47,500, to provide an area outside the classroom for the special needs students to use at recess and lunch in a safe and enclosed space.
Berri Primary School principal Karyn Clarke said although sensory play equipment assists all children’s development, it is particularly beneficial for children with autism, to help calm them and regulate their emotions.
“This grant has been fantastic for the children in the special class,” she said.
“It has provided a safe haven for them to play at recess and lunch times and also as a place to go and relax during class time.
“It is providing opportunities for the children to learn imaginative play and express themselves in a safe environment with the children that they feel most comfortable with.
“We are extremely grateful to Variety for giving our school and especially the students with disabilities this fantastic area to play.”