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Sensory Spaces
The Friends of the Library Sensory Garden
The Sensory Garden was created for the well-being, learning, and coping needs of children and adults with autism, sensory impairments, Alzheimer’s, and dementia. The garden includes a multi-purpose programming space that will allow users to experiment with and manipulate natural materials, focus attention on sensory experiences, participate in activities that enhance physical wellness, balance and coordination and engage in calming and relaxing activities.
Volunteer
Volunteers are needed to help maintain the garden as well as volunteers willing to help with programming. Join our team!
| Hours | |
|---|---|
| Monday & Friday | Reservations available from 9am to 4pm |
| Tuesday - Thursday | Open 9am - 4:00pm, no reservations required. Check event calendar for availability. |
| Saturday | Closed |
Visit whpl.libcal.com/reserve/Garden or call the Winter Haven Public Library at 863-291-5880. Walk-in bookings may be available. Inquiries can be made at the front desk.
The Garden booking is up to 4 people per reservation.
Bookings are for up to 30 minutes per day.
Bookings can be made up to a month in advance and are limited to 4 reservations per month. Email address and Library Card number are required to make a booking.
We invite you to explore with your senses, but please respect the gardens and do not pick the fruit and veggies as we harvest on specific schedules.
Restrooms are located in the main lobby of the Library by the North entrance to the building.
Check the Library’s event calendar for days when the Sensory Garden is open for anyone to drop in and enjoy with no reservations needed.
Sensory Bags with various activities to try are made available for each booking.
Sensory Bag Contents and Descriptions
Sensory Room
The Sensory Room is a unique space for children on the spectrum to interact with an array of sensory experiences. The room is designed to allow children to customize their experience by choosing which sensory experiences they wish to use. What makes the room unique is that the room can be set to calming and serene atmosphere for children who are experiencing sensory overload, or it can be easily be turned into a colorful and active play area if the child needs more sensory stimulation.
Children, together with their families and caregivers, may benefit from improved focus, cognitive development and sensory development as well as benefiting from these calming effects.