STAFF REPORTER
MUSCAT, AUGUST 26
A sensory-friendly summer play programme has provided children with special needs an engaging environment to develop communication, social interaction, confidence and learning through play.
The Gentle Adventures Summer Play Group, facilitated by Pristine Sara George, Speech and Language Therapist, was held recently at AHMC’s Shatti Al Qurum branch for children aged three to six.
The three-week programme used themed activities to encourage children to communicate, interact with peers and develop essential language and play skills in a supportive and inclusive setting.
The first week, ‘Ocean Adventure’, introduced children to an ocean-themed world through sensory bins, water-based activities, crafts, songs and play. The activities focused on vocabulary development, requesting, commenting, following directions, turn-taking and imaginative play, while encouraging social interaction and active participation.
The second week, ‘Farm Fun’, focused on animal vocabulary and sounds, matching activities, pretend play, sensory exploration and group games. Children were encouraged to strengthen their expressive language, answer WH-questions, participate in group activities and develop social communication skills through a combination of structured and play-based learning.
The final week, ‘Summer Foods’, explored a variety of summer foods through sensory play, food-themed crafts, language activities, role play and interactive games. The activities helped children expand their vocabulary, practise sequencing and describing, make requests, follow instructions and interact with peers, while also promoting independence and confidence.
Throughout the programme, children had opportunities to strengthen their expressive and receptive language, social communication, joint attention, play skills and group participation.
The programme also placed emphasis on meaningful, hands-on experiences, allowing children to learn at their own pace while recognising and celebrating their individual strengths and abilities.
By combining sensory experiences with structured learning and free play, Gentle Adventures created a welcoming environment where children could build skills, confidence and positive social connections.
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