Sensory Children's Area (Davidson Library)

Submitted By: Marie Harris, mharris@cmlibrary.org 

Location: Davidson Library - part of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library 

Goal of the Sensory Project: We aimed to build an area full of sensory tools for families to use.  

News items: https://newsofdavidson.org/2025/09/25/95657/davidson-branch-public-library-unveils-new-childrens-sensory-area/ 

Narrative: The Davidson Library officially opened its Children’s Sensory Area on September 22, 2025. The whole library staff were thrilled to be celebrating something truly special – our library system’s first sensory area.

The space has been thoughtfully designed for exploration, play, and learning. This has been a dream of ours, and we’re so excited to see it come to life, especially in a space that already serves so many young families in our community.

At the library, we believe that learning can start with a book… and with curiosity. Learning starts with the senses: the sounds, textures, movements, and interactions that help young children begin to understand their world. Sensory play isn't just fun—it’s foundational. It supports the development of fine motor skills, language, emotional regulation, and social interaction. All of these are critical building blocks for early literacy and school readiness.

When we invest in spaces like this, we’re not just adding a few new toys—we're creating pathways to future reading, learning, and thriving. And none of this would be possible without the incredible generosity of our donors: Caroline Doble and the Students Spreading Smiles Foundation. Their belief in this project and in the children of our community means the world to us. They’ve helped us create a space where every child can feel welcome to learn in their own way, at their own pace.

I also thank Jenni Gaisbauer, Director of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Foundation. Jenni and her team have provided dedicated support to successful stewardship of this gift.

A selection of the items in the space:

·       A large rug printed to look like a pond, with lily pad leaf cushions to sit or lounge upon.

·       A bubble wall feature – specialneedstoys.com Infinity Bubble Wall

·       Light Laboratory with all tabletop attachments from Kodo.

·       A collection of sensory tools and toys such as sensory slugs, textured balls, rubber worry stones, and fidget letters/numbers.