There are many benefits to sensory play, and you may have noticed a recent upsurge of fidget and sensory toys in the hands of school-aged children.
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South Coast Sensory Store opened in Eden on Saturday, October 16, giving locals in the region somewhere to explore and purchase a range of such toys and tools.
Business owner Amanda Sequeira is also a key worker with South Coast Early Interventions and said she had been prompted to open the store following many queries from clients she worked with in that capacity.
Amanda said the opening on Saturday in Twofold Arcade in Eden was a huge success and she had received great feedback already.
Sensory play can encourage learning through exploration, curiosity, problem solving and creativity and help to build nerve connections in the brain, encouraging the development of language and motor skills.
Retail assistant of the new store Fiona Elton said sensory toys can assist people of all ages to relax, focus and calm down during a scenario or event, or simply to block out distractions.
"Fidget toys are beneficial in improving concentration and memory retention skills and increasing engagement in activities," Fiona said.
"These toys and tools focus can help provide comfort for anyone who suffers with stress or anxiety, and can help to minimise other habits, such as nail-biting or smoking."
There is an area in the store set up for customers to explore some of the products on offer.
"People are welcome to bring their kids in for a fiddle and a play, stimulate their senses and see what works for them," Fiona said.
"A lot of these products can be beneficial for people with disabilities or those who may be neurodiverse. There's something for everyone here, and we can cater to people who may be more susceptible to noise and light."
Fiona said the benefits of sensory play can be underestimated, and there were a lot of different applications for the products, including building strength for those who suffer with arthritis.
Puzzles, books and other educational toys are also available.
South Coast Sensory Store is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10am - 4.30pm and 10am - 2pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays. More info: http://www.southcoastsensorystore.com/