Day of fun at sensory friendly outreach festival

EMPOWERING Play, an inclusive, sensory-friendly community outreach festival, set up shop at the Balgaddy Community Centre over the weekend, welcoming children to a day of fun and parents to several informative and supportive talks, reports Grace Harte.

Created and produced by Rebecca McDermott of Sensory Explorers and Grainne Walker from Creative Connections, the festival celebrates neurodiversity, promotes understanding and creates opportunities for connection, participation and fun.

Families, friends and the wider community are brought together in a welcoming and supportive environment “where everyone can explore new experiences, build connections, discover resources and access valuable information and support.”

Professionals such as Speech and Language Therapist, Claire Mullally and Occupational Therapist, Sorcha Rice, were in attendance to provide informative talks and interactive Q and A sessions, alongside a vibrant programme of creative, sensory and play-based activities.

Sorcha Rice spoke about nervous system regulation and sensory processing, offering advice on how to support parents and children in practical and meaningful ways, an important topic for parents of children with additional needs and autism.

From music, dance and LEGO to sensory play and DJ workshops, there were opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to participate, express themselves and enjoy shared experiences.

One of the highlights on the day was a hands-on installation from SoFFt Productions and NOISE Music, allowing young people to explore sound, light and art.

Grainne told The Echo about the success of the event, which was the first of its kind. “Saturday was a tremendous success with over 300 people in attendance – each one looking to know when the next Empowering Play will be.”

Grainne and Sorcha are now looking forward to bringing Empowering Play to communities around South Dublin, to provide further support to parents and sensory-friendly entertainment for children.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme