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Sensory OffalyA Space to GrowA Space for All

Offaly Libraries is delighted to present our Sensory OffalyCollection, comprising toys, equipment, assistive technology, andbooks available to help children, young adults, and adults withadditional needs. This collection is also available to families,teachers, and caregivers for people with additional needs and maybe used by anyone who lives, works, or attends school, in Offaly. Tullamore, Birr, Edenderry, and Clara libraries each have acollection of Sensory Offaly books. The toys and equipmentcollection is based at Tullamore Library, but collection from otherbranch libraries can be arranged, and each of our eight branchescan provide a sensory backpack for use within the library.The books may be borrowed and requested by any library patron.The toys and equipment can be borrowed free of charge byanyone registered for a Sensory Offaly library card, which can bearranged via any branch of Offaly Libraries. Terms and conditions of use apply. Items may differ slightly fromthe catalogue. All queries may be directed to Tullamore Library atTullamoreLibrary@offalycoco.ie or 057 934 6832.

Accessing the Collection..........................................Sensory Offaly Book Collection............................... Children's Fiction................................................ Children's non-Fiction......................................... Young Adult Fiction............................................ Adult Fiction........................................................ Adult non-Fiction.................................................Sensory Offaly Toy and Equipment Collection........ Gross Motor Skills.............................................. Fine Motor Skills................................................. Play & Life Skills................................................. Sensory & Tactile...............................................Sensory Offaly Assistive Technology...................... Magic Tables...................................................... TTRS..................................................................Sensory Room.........................................................The Space...........................................................Contact our libraries................................................1237910112125303743484849505354Contents

Sensory Offaly Book CollectionBooks from the Sensory Offaly collection may be borrowedand requested by any library patron. See page 2 for details.Sensory Offaly Toys and Equipment CollectionA Sensory Offaly membership card is required to borrowitems from our loanable Sensory Offaly Toys and Equipmentcollection. Any adult may register for a Sensory Offalymembership card by showing photo ID and, if they are notalready a library member, proof of address. See page 21 fordetails.Sensory Offaly Assistive TechnologyOffaly Libraries has Magic Tables in Banagher, Clara,Edenderry, Ferbane, and Tullamore libraries, offering awonderful interactive sensory experience. Offaly Librariescan also provide access to TTRS (Touch-Type, Read andSpell), an online typing resource that supports literacy and issuited to people with a range of learning differences,including dyslexia. See page 44 for details.Sensory RoomOffaly Libraries' Sensory Room is located at TullamoreLibrary and slots may be booked via the website or bycontacting Tullamore Library. See page 46 for details.Accessing the Sensory OffalyCollections1

Sensory Offaly Book Collection2The Sensory Offaly Book Collection has been created to support and assist people with additionalneeds in Offaly, and their families, educators, and carers. Tullamore, Birr, Edenderry, and Clara libraries each havea collection of Sensory Offaly books. The books may beborrowed and requested by any library patron, and thecollection comprises both fiction and non-fiction for allages.

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?By Bill Martin Jr.A beautifully illustrated book with a poetic story thatwill fascinate children as they explore language andvisual cues. This book has simple, short sentences and lots ofpictures, which are suited to newer readers andreading aloud. Can I Play Too?By Samantha CotterillPart of Samatha Cotterill's Little Senses series, thisbook helps children understand how to navigatefriendships and cooperation using lovely illustrations.The sentences in this book are simple and short, suitable for newer readers, and the colourfulillustrations will appeal to readers of all abilities.Benji, The Bad Day, and MeBy Sally J. PlaIn this lovely story, two brothers share the experienceof having a bad day - neurotypical Sammy and autisticBenji. With wonderful illustrations, it demonstrates thatwe are all more alike than we may realise. This book has lots of pictures, but some of thesentences are a bit longer, so it's a great book to readtogether!3Sensory Offaly CollectionChildren's Fiction

The Chill SkillBy Niall BreslinThis book accessibly explores mindfulness for youngchildren, walking them through the experience of notgetting what they want. It has lots of pictures and longer sentences in simplelanguage, so it's a good book for newer and developingreaders, and for reading aloud together.Emily's Sister: A Family's Journey With Dyspraxiaand Sensory Processing DisorderBy Michele GianettiThis book is aimed at children to help them understanddyspraxia and sensory processing difficulties.It has pictures, but mainly text and is suited to more fluentreaders. The text uses simple and accessible languagehowever, so it's great for reading aloud together. Blue Bottle Mystery: An Asperger AdventureBy Kathy HoopmannJessica KingsleyA fantasy novel with an autistic protagonist named Ben, who gets pulled into a mystery after finding an old bottle in the school yard.This short book is suited to more fluent readers, as it hasplenty of text and only a few illustrations. Sensory Offaly CollectionChildren's Fiction4

The Real BoyBy Anne UrsuA fantasy novel about Oscar, a magician's assistant who must find answers when the magician abandons his town.This story is suited to more advanced readers, with lots of textand no illustrations. The Guggenheim MysteryBy Robin Stevens A sequel to Siobhán Dowd's The London Eye Mystery, thismystery adventure features an autistic protagonist whoseunique world-view enables him to solve the puzzle.This story is suited to more advanced readers, with lots of textand no illustrations. Planet Earth is BlueBy Nicole PanteleakosA heartrending and hopeful debut novel about a non verbal girl and her passion for space exploration.This story is suited to more advanced readers, with lots oftext and no illustrations. Sensory Offaly CollectionChildren's Fiction5

Al Capone Does my ShirtsBy Gennifer Choldenko Set on Alcatraz island, this historical fiction novel followsMoose as he navigates his relationship with his sister,Natalie, who is autistic.Forever NeverlandBy Susan AdrianA contemporary sequel to J. M. Barrie’s timeless classic PeterPan, perfect for kids who loved THE LAND OF STORIES anddream of going to Neverland. The story follows Clover andFergus, the great-great-grandchildren of Wendy Darling, asthey go on an adventure to Neverland with Peter Pan. Cloverworries about her brother, who has autism, but Fergus isn'tworried at all!This story is suited to more advanced readers, with lots of textand no illustrations. Lisa and the Lacemaker: An Asperger AdventureBy Kathy HoopmannLisa becomes fascinated by lace-making under the kind eye ofher great-aunt Hannah, and gains greater understanding of herAspergers as she is drawn into an old mystery.This graphic novel has beautiful illustrations accompanied byplenty of text and dialogue. Al Capone Does My ShirtsBy Gennifer CholdenkoSet on Alcatraz island, this historical novel tells the story of Mooseand his relationship with his sister, Natalie, who is autistic.This book is suited to more advanced readers, with lots of textand no illustrations.Sensory Offaly CollectionChildren's Fiction6

Going to the SupermarketBy Avril WebsterThe Girl Who Thought In Pictures: The Story of Dr.Temple GrandinBy Julia Finley MoscaThis rhyming books tells the tale of Dr Temple Grandin, ascientist with autism whose unique perspective helps hersolve problems.The Autism Acceptance BookBy Ellen SabinThis is an interactive and educational book that showschildren some of the challenges faced by autistic people. Itincludes exercises to develop empathy and help childrenunderstand and respect people's differences."Say and Do" Social Scenes for Home, School andCommunityBy Susan Rose Simms Developed for children aged 5 to 9, this book supportschildren as they learn how to respond to a range of socialsituations. This books explain 'what comes next' on a trip to thesupermarket and can help children handle challengingexperiences easily.Sensory Offaly CollectionChildren's non-Fiction7

Different Like Me: my Book of Autism HeroesBy Jennifer ElderThis book introduces children to famous people from historywho were autistic, including Albert Einstein, and Dian Fossey.Why Johnny Doesn't Flap: NT is OK!By Clay Morton & Gail MortonThis book is from the perspective of an autistic child,remarking on the strangeness of neurotypicals' behaviour.When My Worries Get Too BigBy Karl Dunn BuronThis workbook provides a template on how to work throughbig feelings and help children find ways to calm themselvesand deal with anxiety. The Asperkid's Secret Book of Social RulesBy Karl Dunn BuronThis book is a funny approach to dealing with life as a youngperson with Aspergers by an author who has Aspergers. Itlooks at managing often unseen social rules and cues, andmaking and maintaining friendships.Sensory Offaly CollectionChildren's non-Fiction8

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-TimeBy Mark HaddonThis mystery novel stars a teenage autistic protagonist,who knows a lot about numbers and not so much aboutpeople. When his neighbour's dog is found murdered, itsets in motion a series of events that changeChristopher's life. His different perspective on eventsenable him to see patterns and issues no one else can,and empower him to solve the mystery.MockingbirdBy Kathryn ErskineCaitlin's brother was the one who explained theconfusing parts of the world to her. Now that he'sdead, 11-year-old Caitlin is adrift, struggling to makesense of the world. She seeks closure and, in theprocess, gains a better understanding of herself as aperson and as a person with Aspergers.Sensory Offaly CollectionYoung Adult Fiction9

This collection of essays, short stories and art is an opportunity to listen and seethe voices and experiences of a variety of people with autism. Aiming torepresent the diversity of the UK neurodiverse community, this book is a chancefor autistic people to speak for themselves.Stim: An Autistic AnthologyBy Lizzie Huxley-JonesSensory Offaly CollectionAdult Fiction10

M is for AutismBy The Students of Limsfield Grange School & VickyMartinThis book is written by the students of Limpsfield Grange, aschool for girls with autism and communication andinteraction difficulties. Filled with their experiences, it offersexcellent insight into the lives of people with autism andtheir families.The Reason I Jump: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen-Year-Old Boy with AutismBy Naoki HigashidaThis memoir is the story of Naoki, aged thirteen, who isautistic and eager to share his experience. Written in aquestion-and-answer style, Naoki explains why hebehaves in particular ways and how he sees the world in acompelling manner.Talking With Your Child About Their Autism DiagnosisBy Raelena DundonThe author is a psychologist specialising in childhood autismand the parent of two autistic children. This book offersadvice on talking to your child about their diagnosis andincludes case studies and examples. Sensory Offaly CollectionAdult Non-Fiction11

Life, Animated - A Story of Sidekicks, Heroes andAutismBy Ron SuskindPulitzer Prize-winning author Ron Suskind tells the storyof how his autistic son lost his ability to communicateverbally at three but, using his love for Disney films,regained the ability.Women and Girls with Autism Spectrum DisorderBy Sarah HendrickxThis heavily-researched book discusses how autismpresents in girls, explaining how different it can be totraditional expectations and the difficulties in gaining adiagnosis. It examines the impact it can have throughout agirl's life and deals with misconceptions .Autism Spectrum Disorder in Mid and Later LifeBy Scott D. RightThis well-researched book examines issues facing autisticpeople as adults, and looks at historical and currenttheories and perspectives. Sensory Offaly CollectionAdult Non-Fiction12

Talk To MeBy Heather JonesThis book is a guide to supporting your autistic child incommunicating with others. Positioning communicationas central to life skills, it offers advice, tips and strategies. Carly's Voice: Breaking Through AutismBy Arthur Fleischmann & Carly FleischmannThis memoir follows the experiences of CarlyFleischmann and her family as Carly, who is autistic,defies expectations and learns to communicate at theage of ten. The Parents Guide to Managing Anxiety in Children withAutismBy Raelene DundonThis guide for parents is a thorough introduction to autismand anxiety. The author is a psychologist specialising inchildhood autism and the parent of autistic children. Sensory Offaly CollectionAdult Non-Fiction13

Being Seen: Memoir of an Autistic Mother, Immigrant, AndZen StudentBy Anlor DavinThis memoir is the story of Anlor Davis, a woman withautism who struggled in early life with sensory difficultiesand social interactions. Diagnosed later in life, Anlor'sexperiences of masking and challenges eventually led toher taking up meditation and using those practices as ameans of living more comfortably in the world.AspergirlsBy Rudy SimoneThis book looks at girls' and women's experiences ofhaving autism and the issues involved in gainingdiagnoses, masking, and finding acceptance. Written byan author with Apsergers, it provides a guide to life as agirl with autism.Can I Tell You About Sensory Processing DifficultiesBy Sue AllenNarrated by Harry, this book offers insight into the impact ofsensory processing difficulties - from issues with washingand eating to the barriers created by large groups,educational settings, and loud noises.Sensory Offaly CollectionAdult Non-Fiction14

Odd Girl Out: An Autistic Woman in a NeurotypicalWorldBy Laura JamesLaura James was diagnosed with autism in her 40s,having spent her life feeling different and out of place.This memoir follows her journey to diagnosis and herexperiences.Engaging AutismBy Stanley I. Greenspan & Serena WiederThis book offers guidance and evidence-based researchon the highly recommended Floortime approach fortreating autistic children. It also offers insight to parentson navigating the controversies surrounding thetreatment of autism. Autism, Anxiety and Me - A Diary in Even NumbersBy Emma Louise BridgeThe author is an autistic woman in her 20s, providing herown perspective on the issues in her life, fromemployment and relationships, to anxiety and sensorydifficulties. Sensory Offaly CollectionAdult Non-Fiction15

Understanding Your Child's Sensory SignalsBy Angie VossThis useful reference book offers tools and strategiesfor parents, teachers, and caregivers to interpret andunderstand the sensory signals given by a child.Camouflage: The Hidden Lives of Autistic WomenBy Dr. Sarah BargielaThis graphic novel provides insight into the lives andexperiences of autistic women, using real life examplesto examine the difficulties in gaining a diagnosis and thechallenges they face.An Adult With An Autism Diagnosis: A Guide for the Newly DiagnosedBy Gillian DrewThis book does exactly what it says on the tin - offeringguidance to adults who are processing their autismdiagnosis.Sensory Offaly CollectionAdult Non-Fiction16

How To Be MassiveBy Aoife DooleyIrish author and artist, Aoife Dooley, has written her ownfunny, insightful fictional take on growing up on thenorthside of Dublin. Aoife was diagnosed with autism asan adult.Sexuality and Relationship Education for Children &Adolescents with Autism Spectrum DisordersBy Davida HartmanThis sex education resource is focused on children andteenagers with autism, offering practical advice andstrategies on sharing information about puberty,sexuality, and relationships. Autism & Asperger Syndrome In ChildrenBy Dr Luke BeardonThis accessible book is an introduction to autism for parentsand caregivers. It offers insight into issues, controversies,myths, and challenges that a newly diagnosed child mayface.Sensory Offaly CollectionAdult Non-Fiction17

Just Take A Bite - Easy Effective Answers to Food Aversionsand Eating ChallengesBy Lori Ernsperger & Tania Stegen-HansonThis book offers insight into picky eating, a common issue forautistic people. It provides information on the sensorydifficulties involved and tips for helping picky eaters eat abalanced diet. Nerdy, Shy and Socially InappropriateBy Cynthia KimThis accessible and funny guide to living in the world as anautistic adult is by Cynthia Kim, who was diagnosed withautism as an adult. her diagnosis enabled her to see herown interactions with the world with new perspective andto better understand herself and her environment.Loud Hands: Autistic People, SpeakingBy The Autistic Self Advocacy NetworkThis collection of essays is written by and for autistic people. Itsprings from the Loud Hands Project, a project by the AutisticSelf Advocacy Network in the US, and covers diverse personalexperiences and foundational community documents.Sensory Offaly CollectionAdult Non-Fiction18

Autism WorksBy Adam FeinsteinThis book looks at the challenges facing autistic peopleregarding employment, and draws attention to the greatcontributions autistic people have made and can make tothe working world.Spectrum WomenBy Barb Cook & Dr. Michelle GarnettThis book contains the personal experiences of fifteenautistic women as they detail their lives from a femaleautistic perspective, looking at issues of identity,relationships, parenting and self-care.Uniquely HumanBy Dr. Barry M. PrizantThe author takes an alternative viewpoint on autism - ratherthan a disorder or condition, he views it as behaviours todeal with an overwhelming world. This book celebratesautism as having strengths and coping mechanisms that canbe built upon and supported.Sensory Offaly CollectionAdult Non-Fiction19

In a Different Key - The Story of AutismBy John Donvan & Caren ZuckerNearly seventy-five years ago, American Donald Triplettbecame the first child diagnosed with autism. In a DifferentKey is the fascinating story of the impact of his diagnosis,early theories about autism, and modern controversies andapproaches.Look Me In The Eye - My Life With Asperger'sBy John Elder RobisonThis memoir charts the author's challenging childhood, wherehe felt misunderstood and different from his peers. Diagnosedas Aspergers in his 40s, John Robison gained insight into hisown behaviour and outlook, and better understood how heinteracts with the world. Sensory Offaly CollectionAdult Non-Fiction20

Toys and equipment may be borrowed by Offaly Libraries'patrons who have registered for a Sensory Offaly library card.Teachers and SNAs may also obtain a card. Adults registering for a Sensory Offaly library card mustprovide photographic ID. If they are not already a librarymember, they will also have to provide proof of address. AllSensory Offaly card holders are encouraged to register for anadult library card also, as books may not be borrowed on theSensory Offaly libary card.. Three items may be borrowed at a time for three weeks. Itemsmay be renewed twice, unless requested by another patron. It is the responsibility of borrowers to inspect items before useand to use them safely and as intended for health and safetyreasons.Toys and equipment should be used on the advice of aqualified professional Borrowers should ensure that toys and equipment areappropriate for the age and ability of the person using them,and that care is taken with small parts and magnets. The Sensory Offaly Toys and Equipment Collection has beencreated to support and assist people with additional needs inOffaly, and their families, educators, and carers. Sensory Offaly Toys and Equipment Selection21

We ask all patrons to take care of the items in the SensoryOffaly collection to ensure they remain available to otherpatrons and, when returning items, to notify staff of any issuesor damages. Items are stored at Tullamore Library but may be collectedfrom other Offaly Libraries branches with sufficient notice. Items in the collection have been selected by Offaly Librariesstaff to support in the development of a range of skills andabilities, from fine and gross motor skills to life skills andcommunication skills. All of the items have been purchasedfrom reputable suppliers, based on recommendations fromother library authorities who have undertaken similar projects.Offaly Libraries staff are delighted to assist in using thecollection, but cannot make expert recommendations. 22

Sensory Offaly patrons are responsible for any items fromthe Sensory Offaly collection in their possession. It is the responsibility of borrowers to inspect itemsbefore use and to use them safely and as intended. Borrowers must ensure that toys and equipment areappropriate for the age and ability of the person usingthem, and that care is taken with small parts andmagnets. Items should be used on the advice of a qualifiedprofessional.Library staff can assist patrons in accessing thiscollection, but cannot make recommendations regardingequipment. Items in this catalogue are current at time of publication(April 2022).Items from the toys and equipment collection will becleaned on return and stored safely.Please Note23

Sensory Offaly Toys andEquipment CollectionGross Motor SkillsR o t a t i o n B o a r d R e dW o o d e n B a l a n c e B o a r dP o p p e r b o a r dB i l i b oP e a n u t R o l lS i t N ' G y mG y m B a l lT a c t i l e M a s s a g e B a l lT h e r a - B a n dD i s c O ' S i tF o r e v e r U p a n d D o w nM o v i n ' S i t J u n i o rR e a c t i o n B a l lW e P l a y S e e s a wN e o n E x e r c i s e B a l l1 .2 .3 .4 .5 .6 .7 .8 .9 .1 0 .1 1 .1 2 .1 3 .1 4 .1 5 .2 62 62 62 62 72 72 72 72 82 82 82 82 92 92 9Fine Motor Skills24Z i p p e d e e d o - u pB e a r S k i l l s B o a r dL a t c h e s B o a r dD o o r b e l l H o u s eG r i p p i e s - S h a k e r sS e n s o r y B a l lL o l l i p o p J u n g l e S t e p p i n g i n t o H a n d w r i t i n gP a t t e r n B l o c k s & B o a r d sL a c i n g A p p l eL a c i n g S h o eJ u m b o T w e e z e r s H e l p i n g H a n d s T o o l sW r i t i n g S l o p eW o o d e n L a c i n g F a r m A n i m a l sJ u n i o r E n g i n e e r s W o r k s h o p M o t o r b i k eR a c i n g C a rA e r o p l a n eM a g n e t i c b o a r d w i t h m i n im a g n e t i c l e t t e r sE x t e n d ' n ' S q u e e z e W o o d e n A c t i v i t y B o a r d M a g n e S t i c k s1 .2 .3 .4 .5 .6 .7 .8 .9 .1 0 .1 1 .1 2 .1 3 .1 4 .1 5 .1 6 .a .b .c .1 7 .1 8 .1 9 .2 0 . 3 13 13 13 13 23 23 23 23 33 33 33 43 43 43 43 53 53 53 53 5 3 63 63 6Play & Life SkillsE m o t i o n P u p p e t sE m o t i o n a l F a c e s S m a l lE m o t i o n C u b e sP h o t o F e e l i n g s F u n D e c kT i m e t o T a l k G a m eB o x F u l l o f F e e l i n g sC o l o r c a r d s - H o w A r e T h e yF e e l i n g ?S e l f A w a r e n e s s A c t i v i t i e s - T a l k a b o u t C a r d s S o c i a l l y S p e a k i n g L e t ' s T a l k - S o c i a l S k i l l sS e e S a w B a l a n c eM u l t i p l i c a t i o n & D i v i s i o n D i c eS n a k e s a n d L a d d e r sS a n d T i m e r sB e e B o t 1 .2 .3 .4 .5 .6 .7 .8 .9 .1 0 .1 1 .1 2 .1 3 .1 4 .1 5 .3 83 83 83 83 93 93 9 3 9 4 04 04 04 14 14 14 2 Sensory & TactileB e a r H u gL i z a r d L a p W e i g h t - 2 k gF i d g e t M a tW e i g h t e d S c a r fW e i g h t y S n a k e yL a p W e i g h t B i t t y B o t t o mW e i g h t e d B l a n k e tS h a k e a n d R o l l S e tT a c t i l e D i s c sS e n s o r y B a c k p a c kS p a c e G a l a x y P r o j e c t o rE a r D e f e n d e r sF i d g e t P a c k s1 .2 .3 .4 .5 .6 .7 .8 .9 .1 0 .1 1 .1 2 .1 3 .1 4 .4 44 44 44 44 54 54 54 54 64 64 64 74 74 7

Gross Motor Skills are physical skills that use thewhole body, particularly the largest muscles of thebody, to perform everyday tasks like standing,sitting up straight, and walking. Core strength,balance, using both sides of the body in acoordinated way and body awareness areessential for gross motor movements. Thesemovements, which include walking, jumping,running, and throwing, are also required foreveryday tasks like climbing stairs, putting ontrousers, and getting into a car. Gross Motor Skills can be developed andimproved through practice and repetition, and ourcollection includes various toys and equipmentthat can help in this process. Gross Motor Skills25

Wooden Balance BoardThis multi-use balancing board can be used inexercise to improve flexibility, stamina, strengthand coordination. It is also an open-ended toythat can be a see-saw, a bridge, a tunnel, aseat, etc. Suitable up to 100 kg.Promotes:ProprioceptionFlexibilityCoordinationBiliboRotation Board Sit or stand and rotate the board. Suitable for ages 3+ and up to 40kg.Promotes:BalanceCoordinationThe bilibo is an open-ended toy that can be aseat, a bowl or a hat! It can be used for rocking and spinning. MaxLoad?PopperboardThis balancing toy is suitable for standing, sitting,rocking and wobbling. It makes satisfying poppingnoises and supports the development of grossmotor skills and balance. Max load?Promotes:Core StrengthBalanceCoordinationPromotes:BalanceCore StabilitySensory ProcessingGross Motor Skills26

Sit N' GymThis gym ball has a gently spikey surface toprovide a tactile experience. Green - 65cm.*Faster Blaster Pump also available.Promotes: Sensory Stimulation Core Strengthening BalanceLarge therapy ball. Yellow - 45cm. *Faster Blaster Pump also available.Promotes:FlexibilityCore StrengtheningBalanceCoordinationPeanut RollPeanut shaped Physio Ball Available in Red: 40cmAlso available in Blue: 70c *Faster Blaster Pump also available.Promotes:FlexibilityCore StrengtheningBalancePromotes: Core stabilityBalancePhysio ball with little feet to help balance. Yellow - 45 cmRed - 55cm *Faster Blaster Pump also available.Gym BallTactile Massage BallGross Motor Skills27

Thera-bandForever Up and DownDisc O' SitMovin' Sit Junior These latex free Thera-Bands are for resistance exercises, used for improving strength and flexibility. Yellow - Thin Resistance; Red - Medium Resistance. Suitable for ages 3 +Promotes:FlexibilityCore StrengtheningBalanceCarefully twist and turn the toy to move the ballround and around in its track.Promotes: Visual Perception Spatial Skills ConcentrationPromotes:BalanceCore Strengthening Self-regulation ConcentrationThis cushion allows for 'active sitting',reducing the need to fidget and improvingcomfort and concentration.This wedge allows for 'active sitting', reducingthe need to fidget, and improving comfort,posture and concentration. Promotes: Sensory StimulationCore Strengthening Self-regulation ConcentrationGross Motor Skills28

Reaction BallNeon Exercise BallWePlay SeesawRed ball with bumpy surface, which moves inunpredictable directions when bounced against a wallor floor. The reaction ball puts your reflexes and hand-eye coordination to the test, as its shape makesmovements unpredictable.Promotes:Gross Motor SkillsFlexibilityHand-eyeCoordination100cm diameter elastic exercise ball.The different colours of this gymnastics ball willbe fascinating for children of all ages. The mattesurface is made out of robust elastic band, whichis perfect for inside and outside playing.Promotes: Gross Motor SkillsPromotes:BalanceCore Strengthening Gross Motor SkillsThis dual function device is a combination ofa seesaw and a balance board. Players needto keep the ball rolling along the track whilekeeping balance.Gross Motor Skills29

Fine Motor Skils are physical skills that use themuscles of the hands (or sometimes feet!) toperform everyday activities like drawing, doing upbuttons, and using building blocks. They areparticularly important for independence, as theyallow children to dress themselves and feedthemselves. Fine Motor Skills can be developed and improvedthrough practice and repetition, and our collectionincludes various toys and equipment that can helpin this process.Fine Motor Skills30

Zippedeedo-upLatches BoardBear Skills BoardDoorbell HousePractice your closures! This frame holds six common clothing closures on which to practise.Promotes: Fine Motor Skills Life SkillsUndo the latch and open the door tosee the picture beneath. Promotes: Fine Motor SkillsColour & Number Recognition Counting Life SkillsBasic Problem SolvingPromotes: Fine Motor SkillsLife SkillsDress bear using common clothing closures.Practice buttons, zips, velcro, laces, andbuckles.This wooden house has four locks withmatching keys, four doorbells and four dollswith which to practice fine motor skills.Promotes: Fine Motor Skills Bilateral Integration Life Skills Fine Motor Skills31

Grippies -ShakersLollipop Jungle Sensory BallA sensory and magnetic construction toy. This auditory STEM building set is suitable forages 18 months+ Promotes:Develops Tactile Senses Sensory Stimulation Concentration Fine & Gross Motor SkillsThe lollipop jungle is great practise for holding and releasing, gripping and moving. The stalks offer sensory input and the itemsthreaded on them can be moved up anddown, teaching cause and effect.This soft Sensory Ball has 6 smaller balls around it,each with a different colour, texture and pattern. Then ball offers visual and tactile sensorystimulation.Promotes: Sensory Stimulation Fine Motor Skills Promotes: Fine Motor Skills,Hand-Eye Co-ordination Fine Motor Skills32Promotes: Fine Motor Skills HandwritingStepping Into Handwriting Stepping into handwriting plus letter building kitThe program touches on key aspects ofhandwriting, giving pre-service teacherssufficient preparation with both handwritingstrategies and challenges faced in the classroom

Pattern Blocks & BoardsLacing AppleLacing ShoePromotes: Fine Motor Skills, Matching & Sorting SkillsColour & Shape RecognitionConcentration Match the colourful shaped blocks to thetemplates provided or create your owndesigns.A wooden apple with holes through which thecaterpillar on a string can be threaded. Promotes: Visual perception skills Hand-eye coordinationConcentrationFine Motor Skills This wooden shoe is a great way to practiceshoe-lacing and shoelace-tying skills.Promotes: Fine Motor Skills Bilateral Integration Life Skills Fine Motor Skills33

Jumbo Tweezers Helping Hands ToolsWriting SlopeThese colorful tweezers are just the right sizefor little hands. Each features ergonomic depressions to guidea proper pincer–grasp grip. Promotes: Fine Motor SkillsLife Skills Hand-Eye CoordinationPromotes: Fine Motor Skills Sensory IntegrationLife Skills Help children develop fine-motor and pre-scissorskills and get ready for writing, cutting, and more. Includes: Gator Grabber Tweezers, Handy Scoopers,Twisty Droppers, Squeezy Tweezers This sloped surface makes handwriting easier. Promotes: Literacy Skills Handwriting Skills Coordination Fine Motor Skills 5 wooden animal panels and colourful lacesto practise lacing and tracing skills.Promotes:Visual Perception SkillsHand-eye coordination Concentration Fine Motor Skills Wooden Lacing Farm Animals Fine Motor Skills34

Junior Engineers Workshop MotorbikeMini construction kit with metal and plasticparts. The various pieces screw together usingthe tools in the box. Promotes: Fine Motor SkillsLife SkillsPromotes: Fine Motor SkillsLife Skills This magnetic board has letters and can beused with magnets of all sorts.Promotes:Literacy SkillsFine Motor Skills Magnetic board with mini magnetic lettersJunior Engineers Workshop Racing CarJunior Engineers Workshop AeroplaneMini construction kit with metal and plasticparts. The various pieces screw together usingthe tools in the box. Mini construction kit with metal and plasticparts. The various pieces screw together usingthe tools in the box. Promotes: Fine Motor SkillsLife Skills Fine Motor Skills35

Extend 'n' Squeeze HandExerciserSmall hand exerciser for improving hand andforearm strength. Helps to develop isolated finger strength,flexibility and coordination.Promotes: Fine Motor SkillsGross Motor SkillsStrengthPromotes: Fine Motor SkillsLife Skills Wooden Activity BoardMagne SticksA sturdy wooden activity board, whichencourages the use of fine motor skills.Features a variety of mechanisms, such aslaces, zips, clasps and wheels.Children can build so many things, which willgive them hours of fun and help them usetheir imagination. The various surfacestructures promote sensory development,including hand-eye coordination, fine motorskills and hours of play.Promotes: Fine Motor SkillsHand-eyeCoordination Fine Motor Skills36

Play and Life Skills are skills such as effectivecommunication, awareness of others' feelings,turn-taking, self-expression, and buildingrelationships. These skills can be learned and improved, likeother skills, and our collection includes varioustoys and equipment that can help in this process.Play & Life Skills37

Emotion PuppetsEmotional Faces SmallEmotion CubesSet of 6 inflatable balls, each with a faceshowing a different emotion.A set of 6 puppets expressing different emotions: joy, sadness, fear, anger, surprise, and no emotion. Promotes: Language & Communication Skills Understanding Feelings Non-verbal CommunicationSet of 4 cubes which help children learn torecognise and discuss different emotions usingphotographs and words. Photo cards depicting a wide range ofemotions without labels. Promotes:Recognition ofEmotionsLife SkillsPhoto Feelings Fun DeckPromotes:Recognition ofEmotionsLife SkillsPromotes:Recognition ofEmotionsLife SkillsPlay & Life Skills38

Time to Talk GameBox Full of FeelingsColorcards - How Are They Feeling?A set built around four basic feelings: joy, sadness, fear, and anger. Suitable for ages 2-7. This game supports language and social skills for children aged 4-7. Promotes: ListeningTurn-taking Non-verbal Communication Understanding FeelingsPicture cards with different activities andexpressions, allowing users to guess how thepeople in the pictures are feeling. Promotes: Reading Faces & Contexts Communication Skills Understanding FeelingsNon-verbal Communication Promotes: Reading Faces & Contexts Communication Skills Understanding FeelingsNon-verbal Communication Play & Life Skills39Promotes:Social SkillsLanguage &Communication Skills Self Awareness Activities - Talkabout Cards This pack has 20 group games with visual cues toencourage self awareness and effective socialskills.

Socially SpeakingPromotes:Language &Communication SkillsSocial Skills This game practises social interactionsand supports language developmentand problem solving. This card pack supports the development of communication skills in children and young adults. Promotes:Language &Communication SkillsSocial Skills Let's Talk - Social SkillsPlay & Life Skills40Promotes:Life Skills SeeSaw BalanceThis balancing board is used todemonstrate equilibrium and weightdifferences. There are 10 weightcubes included.

Snakes and Ladders Promotes: Communication SkillsTurn-taking Traditional Snakes and Ladders boardgame for 2-4 people. Players take turns toroll the dice and advance up the board,climbing up ladders and sliding downsnakes.Play & Life Skills41Sand Timers: Set of 5 Promotes: Starting & Finishing TasksTime ManagementConcentrationColour coded sand timers to measurespecific period of time.Promotes:Life SkillsMultiplication & Division DiceThese dice make learning arithmetic into a game!Practise multiplication and division in a fun way.

Play & Life Skills42 Promotes: Starting & Finishing TasksTime ManagementConcentrationColour coded sand timer to measurespecific period of time.30 Minute Sand Timer15 Minute Sand TimerColour coded sand timer to measurespecific period of time. Promotes: Starting & Finishing TasksTime ManagementConcentrationBee BotPlastic prgrammable robot. Bee-Bot featuresinclude: Sounds and flashing eyes confirm yourinstructions - Memory of up to 200 steps -Robust and small design - Fantastic cross-curricular resources also available Promotes: Directional LanguageProgramming

Sensory processing difficulties can be an issue formany people, particularly those with autism. Sensoryplay and experiences can be both enjoyable andbeneficial for people with sensory issues. It stimulatesthe brain, often has a calming effect, and can helppeople self-regulate. Sensory play can also help withcoordination.Sensory toys and equipment are designed tostimulate one or more senses. People may also usesensory toys as part of stimming, a sensory-seekingtechnique used to calm themselves and relieve stress.No two people have the same sensory needs, and thesensory and tactile toys and equipment in ourcollection should be introduced gently.Sensory & Tactile43

Bear HugLizard Lap Weight - 2kgFidget Mat - 900gWeighted Scarf - 800gThe Weighted Lizard is for use on the lap, offeringcomforting pressure to support focus, self regulation,and concentration. Suitable for ages 3+, use shouldbe limited to 15-20 minutes due to its weight. Promotes:CalmingConcentrationSelf-regulation This adjustable deep pressure vest helps to calmchildren with high sensitivity and decrease hyper-responsiveness. Small: 8″ x 26″ Torso Wrap with 20″ shoulderstrap. A weighted lap mat that providesreassuring pressure in a seated position. It also has a a fidget octopus. Promotes: Sensory Stimulation Self-regulation CalmingThe weighted scarf helps focus, calm, andconcentration through improved proprioceptionand is suited to those with sensory processingissues. Weighted items are best used underguidance from a professional.Promotes:Self-regulationCalmingProprioception Promotes:CalmingConcentrationSelf-regulation Sensory & Tactile44

Weighty Snakey - 3kg Lap Weight - 1kg Bitty BottomWeighted Blanket - 6kgLap weights offer reassuring pressure in a seatedposition. They support self-regulation, concentration, andcalming. Promotes:CalmingConcentrationProprioception This tactile snake is a weighted toy that helpsfocus, calm and concentration throughimproved proprioception and is suited tothose with sensory processing issues. Weighted items are best used underguidance from a professional.Small sitting cushion containing marbles.This is helpful for children who need tofidget and move. Promotes: Sensory & Tactile StimulationCore StrengtheningThis large weighted blanket offers comfortingpressure. 100% cotton. Weighted items are best used under guidancefrom a professional. Promotes:Self-regulationCalmingProprioception Promotes:CalmingConcentrationSelf-regulation Sensory & Tactile45

Shake and Roll Set Tactile DiscsSensory BackpackA colourful set of 5 different tactile structures, these discs challenge the sense of touch on both hands and feet. Promotes:CalmingSensory Stimulation This set includes a mini rainbow maker and anocean drum, offering a visual and audiosensory experience that is calming and fun.Suitable for ages 1+.Promotes:Tactile Integration Regulation Matching & Counting Promotes:CalmingSensory Stimulation Each library has a sensory backpack for use inthe library. These contain ear defenders,fidget toys, and other sensory items. Sensory & Tactile46

Ear DefendersFidget PacksA box containing a variety of sensory objects tostimulate and calm. Promotes:CalmingConcentrationSelf-Regulation Similar in design to over-the-hear earphones,ear defenders muffle loud or distractingnoises, decreasing over-stimulation andsupporting concentration. Noise attenuationof 26dB. Suitable for ages 6 months - 16 yearsPromotes:CalmingSensory Stimulation Sensory & Tactile47Promotes:CalmingSensory Stimulation The space galaxy projector creates a galaxy onyour ceiling! The projector can be adjusted to anyangle and lights up a room with blue lights andtwinkling green lights. This soothing experience isbest used in very dark spaces.Space Galaxy Projector

The Sensory Offaly Collection includes assistive technology whichcan support and assist people with additional needs in Offaly, andtheir families, educators and carers.Magic TablesMagic Tables are available for use in Banagher, Clara, Edenderry,Ferbane and Tullamore libraries. This games console hostsinteractive sound and light-based games on a table-top topromote physical activity, engagement and quality of life forpeople with dementia and cognitive disabilities. Sit at the table andtouch stars to create music, or tap a caterpillar to turn it into abutterfly simply by moving your hand through the light! The MagicTable offers a wonderful sensory experience. Contact theselibraries to book and for more information, or book online atoffaly.ie/libraries. Sensory Offaly CollectionAssistive Technology48

TTRSTTRS is an accessible, multi-sensory online literacy course thatteaches reading and spelling through touch-typing. Suitable fromages seven to 107, this highly adaptive resource uses phonics andtyping as teaching tools to improve literacy for children, teenagersand adults. It is particularly suited to those with dyslexia, reading,writing and spelling difficulties, and other learning differences. Although this is a literacy resource, it also teaches the importantskill of typing, and includes modules in mathematics, sciences, andmore. It is a self-guided, individually paced experience. If you are an interested teacher, parent, or adult, please get intouch with Tullamore Library at tullamorelibrary@offalycoco.ie;Birr Library at birrlibrary@offalycoco.ie; or Edenderry Library atedenderrylibrary@offalycoco.ie for more details. Who is it for?TTRS is suitable for people with a range of learning differences,including but not limited to dyslexia, dyspraxia, dysgraphia,dyscalculia, autism, Down syndrome, ADHD, and visual andauditory processing disorders.49

Sensory Room50Offaly Libraries' sensory room is located in Tullamore Library. Thisis an enclosed room offering a range of sensory experiences,including light, sound and touch. It is suitable for children, youngpeople and adults. Children, young people, and vulnerable adultsmust be accompanied by an adult at all times. Who can use the Sensory Room?The Sensory Room can be used by anyone, including OffalyLibraries patrons, teachers, SNAs, students, and families. How many people can use the Sensory Room at a time?The Sensory Room can be used by a parent, teacher, SNA, or carerwith one or two users, or by individuals. The Sensory Room is asmall space and we recommend minimising numbers.How do I book time in the Sensory Room?You can contact Tullamore Library by phone or email, or you canuse our online booking system on our website.How long can I use the Sensory Room for?You can book the Sensory Room for up to 55 minutes. What facilities are in the Sensory Room?The Sensory Room contains the following: a light-up bubble tube; asound system; lava tiles and stepping stones; soft-glow cubes; avinyl beanbag; a magic table; a seating nook behind an LED curtain;a changeable projector; and a black-out blind. https://www.supersaas.com/schedule/Library_Headquarters/Tullamore_Library_Sensory_Room

51How is the Sensory Room cleaned?The Sensory Room is cleaned thoroughly daily, and is fogged withcleaning solution between users. Users are free to remove theirshoes on entry into the Sensory Room and leave them in the boxprovided.The Sensory Room and COVID-19The Sensory Room is cleaned thoroughly daily, and the room andits contents are fogged with cleaning solution between users. Weask that users adhere to public health guidelines.The Sensory Room is a space in which to relax, to explore, and tolearn. Toys and equipment from the Sensory Offaly Collectionmay be borrowed and used there, and library staff are available toguide you in the use of the room.

52Take a LookOur bubble tube is full of colourful plastic fish and when it's turnedon, the bubbles make them bob around in the water in a colourfullight. We have a cozy nook, with a comfortable seat and a colourful curtainof lights.The blackout blind can darken the room, so the colourful lights canbe seen more clearly, or they can be left open to let sunlight in. All ofthe equipment with lights can be easily turned on or off by visitors, sothey can adjust the environment for their own sensory needs.

The Space at Tullamore Library is a multifunctional events room,used to host a range of events, including those with a sensoryelement. It has a carpeted floor, a Magic Table, and a Marble Wall.There are a set of ear defenders available in each library branch,which protects the wearer's ears from loud noises. They can beloaned to visitors during events or even during regular library visits,simply ask at the desk to borrow a pair. The Space53

AUTISM Banagher LibraryT: 057 9151471 E: banagerlibrary@offalycoco.ieBirr LibraryT: 057 9124950E: birrlibrary@offalycoco.ieClara LibraryT: 057 9331389E: claralibrary@offalycoco.ieDaingean LibraryT: 057 9353005E: daingeanlibrary@offalycoco.ieEdenderry LibraryT: 046 973 1028E: edenderrylibrary@offalycoco.ieFerbane libraryT: 090 6454259E: ferbanelibrary@offalycoco.ieKilcormac LibraryT: 057 9135086E: kilcormaclibrary@offalycoco.ieTullamore LibraryT: 057 9346832E: TullamoreLibrary@offalycoco.ie Contact our Libraries 54

Offaly Libraries@OffalyLibraries@Offaly_LibrariesOffaly Libraries