Sensory Storytime

About the Program

Category: Libraries (Best in Category)

Year: 2020

Foothills Library (a branch of the Yuma County Library District) began developing a curriculum in 2015 to offer Sensory Storytime for children on the autism spectrum or with different sensory needs. The program established the library as a welcoming environment for families with children that may have occasional outbursts. Through participation in this program, children and their families develop their literacy and comprehension skills, as well as refining their social skills through interaction with their peers.Sensory Storytime was launched in 2016 and is offered once a month on Saturdays to encourage family participation. The activities, visual schedule, music, lighting, literature, and sensory stimulating objects are carefully selected for each event. The program incorporates both participant recommendations as well as the real-world experience of our staff, which includes a parent of a child on the autism spectrum. This program has increased awareness and creates a welcoming space for this underserved group in our community.