Multi-Skill Sensory Park Opens for Students with Disabilities in Tamil Nadu
In a significant step towards inclusive education and therapeutic recreation, a Multi-Skill Sensory Park was inaugurated at Poppili Raja Government Higher Secondary School, Puzhal, in Tiruvallur district. The park was opened by Anbil Mahesh Poyyamozhi, marking a milestone in providing inclusive learning spaces for children with special needs.
Enhancing Learning Through Play
The Multi-Skill Sensory Park is designed to improve sensory, cognitive, gross motor, and fine motor skills of children with disabilities. The initiative was announced during the 2024–25 grant request, with the aim of enabling children with diverse disabilities to gain meaningful learning experiences through play-based activities.
Under the Integrated School Education programme, the Tamil Nadu government planned to establish 20 multi-purpose sensory parks across 20 districts, with a total allocation of ₹2.6 crore, at ₹13 lakh per park. The Puzhal facility has been inaugurated as the first phase of this state-wide project.
Benefits for Students with Special Needs
The park will benefit 410 students with special needs studying in Classes 1 to 12 in Puzhal. It is designed to stimulate key senses such as vision, hearing, touch, balance, and movement, offering a safe and inclusive environment where children can play, interact, and learn together.
According to the minister, the park provides a therapeutic play experience for children with conditions such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and cerebral palsy.
Facilities and Sensory Equipment
The park features a wide range of play and mobility equipment, including:
- Slides, swings, see-saws, and spinning platforms to improve balance and body control
- Blocks with different textures to enhance tactile stimulation
- Basketball and volleyball courts, skipping ropes, and activity boards for coordination and muscle strength
A dedicated ball pool area includes sensory elements like varied surface textures, flower pots, and wind chimes, helping enhance touch, sound perception, and emotional well-being, while creating a calm and peaceful environment.
This initiative reflects Tamil Nadu’s growing focus on inclusive infrastructure, ensuring that children with disabilities receive equal opportunities for education, recreation, and holistic development.
