By Kelly Akins
When we started renovating Wilshire’s preschool space, I knew we needed a sensory room.
Some of you may not know what a sensory room is or why it would be useful to us. The Preschool Sensory Room exists to help children calm and regulate their bodies and emotions when they are unable to do so in a regular classroom setting. Access is limited to children who need a calming break, accompanied by a trusted adult. Every visit is purposeful — never a reward, punishment or a place for free play — so it stays a reliable, calming resource for the kids who need it most.
The Sensory Room came together in a beautiful way, showing how God works best.
When we started the preschool renovation, I mentioned the need of a sensory room. Shana Gaines commented that I needed to find an Eagle Scout candidate who needed a project. Enter Lee Terry, a Wilshire member who still has ties to troop 890 because he is an Eagle Scout himself. He connected me with Lucy Boyd, a freshman who attends Classical School of Dallas and was looking for an Eagle Scout project. She and her brother have been to Camp Barnabas, a specialized camp in Missouri for children with disabilities and their siblings. Lucy’s passion for neurodivergent children was perfect for this project.
Lucy researched what would be appropriate for preschool children and came up with so many wonderful ideas. She built a set of shelves that match what we have in the preschool area, made a texture wall, installed a lava lamp with floating fish, created a Lego wall, helped her grandmother make curtains and also added lamps, rugs and beanbag chairs to the room.
These things enhanced what we already had and made a warm, inviting space that children will enjoy for many years. Well done, Lucy! We are grateful for your hard work.