WAEYC Public Policy Series: Building Sensory-Rich Environments and Advocating for Change: The Story of Aur Place Sensory Gym

Session Description:

Join early childhood educators LaRisha Calley and Gervona Johnson as they share the transformative journey behind Aur Place, a sensory gym in Tacoma, Washington, designed to support children’s developmental needs through interactive, sensory-based experiences. In this session, LaRisha and Gervona will explore the critical role of sensory-rich environments in fostering emotional regulation, sensory processing, and holistic development, particularly for children with unique learning needs.

Beyond the sensory experiences, the session will take an in-depth look at the advocacy and policy work that LaRisha and Gervona have done to make Aur Place a reality. They will share the challenges they faced in navigating the systems to create a space that supports children with diverse needs and how they used advocacy strategies to push for better inclusion, awareness, and resources in early childhood education. Attendees will learn not only about the design and implementation of sensory spaces but also about the key advocacy tactics that have fueled the success and ongoing growth of Aur Place.

This session will provide valuable insights into how advocacy, community engagement, and policy work can be leveraged to create spaces that promote inclusion and meet the developmental needs of all children.

Main Outcomes:

1. Understanding Sensory Processing in Early Childhood: Participants will deepen their understanding of sensory processing and the importance of sensory-rich environments for young children’s cognitive, emotional, and physical development. The session will emphasize how sensory experiences play a pivotal role in supporting diverse learning needs.
2. Practical Strategies for Creating Sensory Spaces: Attendees will learn practical techniques for designing and integrating sensory spaces and activities into various settings, from classrooms to home environments. The session will provide concrete ideas for enhancing environments to better engage children and support their developmental growth.
3. Advocacy Strategies for Supporting Inclusive Environments: Participants will gain a greater understanding of how advocacy and policy work can drive the creation of inclusive, accessible spaces for children with unique needs. LaRisha and Gervona will share effective advocacy approaches they used to establish Aur Place, and provide actionable strategies for participants to advocate for similar spaces and resources in their own communities.

Register HERE: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/public-policy-february-series-tickets-1155427216909?aff=oddtdtcreator