Center Parcs has launched a free sensory library at its Elveden Forest site to support families visiting with neurodivergent children. The library was developed with SENNIES, a Special Educational Needs agency.
Guests can borrow noise-reducing ear defenders, feelings wheels and visual timers from guest services. The library is available to all guests free of charge, with no diagnosis required to borrow items.
A range of sensory resources is available on a first come, first served basis, including fidget toys, puzzle mats, calming lights and colour-changing eggs. According to Center Parcs, the library is designed to support guests with a range of sensory needs, including but not limited to guests who are neurodivergent, such as those with autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia and sensory processing differences.
Richie Williams, village director at Center Parcs Elveden Forest, said: “Parents told us they often travel with additional sensory equipment or comfort items simply to help their child feel comfortable away from home and that better provision could make families more likely to take regular breaks. Our Sensory Library is a direct response. By working with families and SENNIES, we can provide useful equipment at no extra cost and remove one source of pressure from the experience.”
The library has been available to all guests staying at Center Parcs Elveden Forest since 18 September. The holiday park said it hopes to roll the sensory library “more widely across our villages” in the future.
Georgia Sargeant, CEO and founder at SENNIES, added: “No two neurodivergent children are the same, so there is no single adjustment that works for every family. What matters is choice, a considered range of options from sensory resources and communication aids through to support for self-regulation and co-regulation, so a family can pick what works for their child that day. This library turns families’ feedback into practical support and shows how holiday providers can respond meaningfully to changing needs.”