Impact Statements from Parents

Our journey as parents of an eight-year-old son with autism has been marked by various challenges and triumphs. Recently, we were gifted with a sensory kit from For Little Monkeys Charity which has had a wonderfully positive impact on our son’s well-being and development. The sensory kit provided to our son was carefully chosen with items that included a play table and chairs with storage, non-toxic sensory play doh and slime, letter and number puzzles, a dinosaur sensory sand box, and tactile numbers and letters. Before the sensory kit, our son often struggled to manage his emotions. Sometimes, sensory overload and meltdowns could overwhelm him and us. The sensory kit has become a wonderful resource in helping him self-regulate and relax from stress and anxiety. The sensory kit has provided our son with a play place that has helped manage his emotions and has helped his creative and imaginary play flourish. We had not had a play space like this in our home, and it has become his very own place to enjoy. We are so grateful and hopeful to see his progress and self-regulation improve so greatly after receiving the sensory kit.

- Elizabeth

Since receiving the sensory kit, E has become more willing to stand. Multiple times a day she will crawl toward the table and try to stand up. While she still needs assistance it is helping her work on her balance and side stepping. She is currently obsessed with one of the puzzles she received and enjoys the colourful shapes. She wouldn’t touch puzzles before that one and she is beginning to understand that the pieces go back on the board. That is a skill we will continue to work on! One of the little soccer ball fidget spinners that came in the bag is one of her favourites. She loves throwing it and chasing it down the hallway. We often race to see who can get to it first. Next for her is filling the bin with ground up cherries (since sand still goes in her mouth) and explore some different sensory play. Thank you so much again Natalie and sponsors. I can’t wait to see how else she progresses while she meets her sensory needs!

- Deanna & Branden

Rosie has been enjoying her sensory table and accessories. It's a place where she can focus on her activities and most recently we have been giving her snacks and meals there too. It has really helped her with her core strength. She is really excited to go and sit on the stools all on her own and she enjoys colouring and using playdoh at the table. We are very thankful for receiving this for her. It has become an important staple in Rosie's daily routine and we noticed she it has encouraged her to approach other tables in various settings such as play centres and children's parties. 

- Janet

Austin is loving all the sensory items that was included in the sensory kit. He can incorporate sensory play into some of his occupational therapy sessions which is helping with the recovery and development in his left arm. We really appreciate this kit!

- Joey

Ethan and Emma absolutely love their sensory kits. They each have their own sensory preferences and each kit came with different items that cater to their interests. Emma loves the play sink with the water that pours out of it. She pretends to wash dishes. She also gets practice drinking out of the play cups. Ethan loves the wooden puzzles with the letters and numbers. He also loves the kinetic sand where he enjoys making pretend meatballs and tiny worms. We are very thankful for everyone’s generosity.

- Amanda

So blessed to have this sensory kit gifted to B. It has helped her improve her fine motor skills and ability to sit in one spot - She loves it!

- Becky

T loves letters and enjoys playing with his puzzle and now he is more interested in “undirected” play on the sensory table with the playdough and all the other resources.

- Angelique

We are incredibly grateful to have received a sensory kit from For Little Monkeys Charity for our daughter with Down Syndrome. The sensory table and its contents are truly amazing. Our daughter’s favourite item is the sensory sand kit. She loves making a mess and squishing the sand in her hands, and while it can be hard to keep her focused on activities for long, this one captures her attention for longer than most. Her older siblings also enjoy playing with her, making it a wonderful bonding experience!

Personally, I love the chalk alphabet puzzles. This multi-purpose learning puzzle is fantastic for helping her develop fine motor skills and learn her letters, especially as she is in Junior Kindergarten. The scented dough from Dough Perfect was also a lovely addition. The little stamp of their business name was a thoughtful touch, and the strawberry scent was a particular favourite. The latch board puzzle is another great activity that she enjoys.

We are so thankful for the many ways the sensory table has supported our daughter’s learning and exploration. There are endless opportunities for play and growth. We can’t thank you enough for your generosity!

- Karen

E is absolutely loving all of her sensory items that were included in the sensory kit especially the numbers puzzle. It has a provided her with an engaging way of practising her counting. The kit has provided her with an opportunity to incorporate sensory play into some of her occupational therapy and learning sessions.

We are so very grateful that a charity exists for our child with such special needs and requirements. 

- Rachelle

We have been actively using the table from the sensory kit to work on homework on it as well as all sorts of sensory activities including playing with the slime and other items you gave us. We also use the wooden letters and numbers to practice for school. The sink with water also helps R calm down when he is overwhelmed , which happens everyday.  Thank you!

- Olga