Nursery group to introduce 'sensory experience' to its settings

The multi-functional sensory resources, designed to bolster young children's development, will first be introduced to the Epsom nursery’s baby room this month, before being rolled out to the rest of the settings.

Fennies says the decision to retrofit all of its nurseries with what it is calling a ‘full sensory experience’ is in recognition that stimulation through senses strengthens neurological pathways, which is proven to be essential for early years brain development.

It believes it is the first ‘major nursery group’ to introduce such resources to all of its settings, which are based in Surrey, London and Kent.

‘The sensory experience’ will be fitted in all of the nurseries’ baby rooms and include a technology corner, light and sound panels, climbing frames and tactile objects - all designed to stimulate babies, promote communication, co-ordination, understanding of early mathematical concepts and providing opportunities for calm.

Sensory objects include a fibre optic strands chandelier, a rainbow panel that responds to pitch and volume and teaches cause and effect, and a mounted projector that projects images onto the floor, encouraging hand-eye co-ordination and tummy time which is crucial for developing children’s strength.

Rageena Tahir, early years specialist, and curator of the sensory experience at Fennies Nurseries, said, ‘Innovation for over two-year-olds is in abundant supply, but for younger babies our aim is to provide a robust, creative and science-supported experience. For under twos, stimulation is key – they are natural born explorers and need balanced stimulation beyond contrived activities.’