Sensory journey on offer at Levin library

• Published date: 12 April 2024
• Author: Samantha Tibbs children’s learning librarian
• Publication title: Horowhenua Chronicle

This is a beautiful place to read with children and to engage the senses. Sensory play includes touch, smell, sight, sound, and taste, and also covers movement, balance, and spatial awareness

It encourages learning through exploration, curiosity, problem-solving, and creativity. Each new experience we have with a different sense builds nerve connections that grow the architecture of our brains. To celebrate the new sensory space this school holidays, we’ve planned activities that encourage hands-on play through touch, taste, smell, sight, movement, and sound. From scented cloud dough and tasty fruit kebabs to bubble wands, ice painting, and more, there’s something engaging planned for every sense!

Sensory play is a crucial part of childhood, but we’re increasingly realising the benefits and importance of engaging our senses at every age and stage of life. Sensory stimulation can improve cognitive processing, increase concentration, and promote relaxation, mindfulness, and emotional well-being. With our stimulating and diverse collections, what better way to shake up your senses than with a visit to the library?

For an audio delight, if you haven’t already seen the adapted TV series Daisy Jones and the Six, then the audiobook by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a brilliant place to start.

One of thousands of free audiobook titles available on the Libby app, the novel was written as a script, and the audio recorded by voice actors. It mimics a classic interview-style music documentary featuring contradicting ex-band members recounting their rise to fame and their Fleetwood Mac-inspired dramatic collapse.

Next, get your taste buds tingling with one of our many inspiring cookbooks. The 5-minute noodle salad lunchbox by Alexander Hart will ignite a taste and texture explosion in your everyday lunches, with 52 quick, easy, and healthy recipes.

Or take your taste buds on a journey across the globe with Bri DiMattina’s Nostrana: Flavours from My Italian Kitchen Garden. Enjoy a feast for the eyes and try reading an adult graphic novel. With our ever-growing collection, it’s tricky to know where to start.

The Saga series by Brian K Vaughan and Fiona Staples blends fantasy and science fiction into the sweeping tale of a young family fighting to find their place on a wild ride through many eye-popping worlds.

To keep hands busy over the cooler months and provide some sensory input, we have a wonderful collection of art and craft titles. Conscious Crafts: Knitting offers 20...