Kingston, Jamaica. November 17, 2023:

The Child Protection and Family Services Agency (CPFSA) will be expanding the number of state childcare facilities that are equipped with sensory spaces to better cater to wards who have special needs.

The new sensory spaces to be added are the Blossom Gardens Nursery and the Robins Nest Children’s Homes in St James, Glen Hope Nursery in Kingston, and Gift of Hope Children’s Home in Manchester. Two homes have been recently outfitted with sensory spaces – Maxfield Childcare facility in Kingston, and Muirton Boys’ Home in Portland.

The spaces will be used for early stimulation and for delivery of occupational therapy for children with behavioural disorders or developmental disabilities.

Chief Executive Officer, CPFSA,  Laurette Adams-Thomas speaking at the recent opening of the sensory room at the Muirton Boys’ Home, noted that “the spaces will provide children with a sanctuary where they can explore and express themselves, free from judgement and external pressures.” She added that these rooms are essential in the children developing critical coping skills and enhancing their self-esteem and overall wellbeing. “They also serve as a valuable resource for the dedicated staff who can better understand the unique needs of each child under their care,” she expressed.

Manager at the Muirton Boys’ Home, Shanae Walsh Webber observed that the room will greatly enhance the quality of support provided at the home. She highlighted that through the provision of specialist support many of the wards “flourish upon their transitioning from the home, even participating in programmes such as the HEART Trust NSTA employment programme for special needs, and eventually receiving permanent employment in the construction; culinary arts and craft; upholstering; tiling; sewing and plumbing industries.”

The sensory spaces are being provided at selected state care facilities through a partnership with the Transformation Implementation Unit as part of the public sector transformation programme.