From April to August, the City of Subiaco will host Sensory Rhymetime, an innovative early year program designed for children living with disability.
Facilitated by Sensorium Theatre, the 45-minute sessions blend music and sensory elements – touch, sight, sound and smell – with popular children’s stories and rhymes to create an immersive learning experience. The sessions operate with reduced numbers to ensure individualised attention.
Inspired by the State Library WA’s Better Beginnings initiative, Sensory Rhymetime aims to promote early literacy skills in children 0–4 years.
Mayor David McMullen said this pilot program signalled support from the City, for children living with disability by offering more inclusive, tailored experiences.
“Sensory Rhymetime is the only program of its kind in Australia, one that’s specially designed to meet the needs of children living with disability,” he said.
“Following the popularity of Sensory Storytime during our 2023 International Day of People with Disability program, we’re building on that success with the new Sensory Rhymetime series.
“Play-based programs like these encourage children to use their imaginations and provide parents, carers and educators the tools to enrich children’s understanding of stories.”
Sensory Storytime takes place on
Monday 15 April,
Monday 13 May and
Monday 10 June at Subiaco Library, with more sessions expected to be added. Attendance is free but
booking is essential.