The Sensory Hub Glasgow, a fantastic new family resource based in the Westwood Business Centre, Easterhouse, was officially opened on Thursday 18th April by Glasgow Lord Provost Eva Bolander (though it was a slightly younger guest, 2-year-old Violet Duffy, who took charge of the ribbon cutting!). The Hub provides a rich and stimulating environment which has been specially designed to develop the cognitive and communication skills of every child through peaceful yet fun sensory play; children are encouraged to use all of their senses, and the activities on offer include a wall of musical notes, interactive rainbow lights and fibre optics, a boat-shaped ball pool and a relaxation room.
Attendees at the opening event were given the opportunity to tour the facility (visiting under the sea, a magic garden and outer space all in one day!) and hear about the benefits of multi-sensory play. Gail MacDonald, Director of the Sensory Hub, spoke passionately about her goal of providing a safe and welcoming environment for all children to explore, experiment and discover at their own pace, in particular, those children who might struggle in a mainstream environment. The Sensory Hub is a Community Interest Company, and Gail has been able to bring the space to life with help with funding from the National Lottery Awards for All,
Robina Goodlad Memorial Trust and Glasgow Area Partnership. Construction company ISG donated materials and labour during the renovation of the facility.
In the near future, the Hub plans to employ a development worker who will work with families to provide support and learning opportunities in this exciting setting. Those who visited during the soft launch have been full of praise, and the Lord Provost agreed that it is a welcome resource for the city.
‘Stay and Play’ sessions for 0-5 year olds are currently running on Tuesday and Friday mornings; these sessions can be booked online at www.the-sensory-hub-glasgow-cic.class4kids.co.uk at a cost of £5.50 per session. Further information is available on the website, www.thesensoryhub.org. Gail and the team look forward to welcoming more families from the east end and beyond soon!
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