Loud noises, bright lights, and crowded areas can be overwhelming for anyone. A person’s anxiety and stress levels can elevate if they stay in these environments for too long. Fraser Richfield is now offering the public tools to address this issue.
A new sensory lending library is available at Fraser to assist people in creating more calm and inclusive spaces at home and in public.
Sensory equipment like weighted blankets, noise-canceling headphones, and a crash pad mat can be rented out by individuals, families and organizations.
People with ADHD, autism, PTSD, anxiety, and dementia are some groups that benefit from sensory equipment but anyone can utilize the tools available at the Fraser lending library.
The lending library is open to the public and no connection to Fraser is needed to check out items.
Adults can check out equipment for themselves, other adults, or children for up to one week and lenders can view available equipment online (www.fraser.org/sensorylendinglibrary). There is a $100 refundable check deposit due at pick-up of the items.
The idea for the lending library came after repeated requests from other organizations to borrow Fraser’s sensory equipment during public events.
“We go out to community events and bring our own equipment in order to make those experiences more sensory friendly,” Fraser Occupational Therapist and Sensory Supports Specialist Karmen Nyberg said.
A grant from the Eden Prairie AM Rotary Club provided the funding for the library’s equipment.
Fraser is now looking for more people to utilize the lending library.
“We’ve had some families who are interested in a weighted lap pad or a weighted blanket or a variety of fidgets, but again, don’t want to purchase it because it is kind of an investment,” Nyberg said.
The pop-up tents have been popular with people who need a respite during outdoor events.
Other equipment available includes noise-canceling headphones, foldable rocking chairs, a weighted cape, and gel floor tiles.
“A lot of individuals need movement in order to regulate,” Nyberg said about the gel tiles’ purpose. “Sensory seekers, those who need more and more and more, especially movement. So, jumping, stomping.”
The lending library offers a variety of tools for people to try out what best works for them.
“Sensory tools are not one-size-fits-all,” Nyberg said. “Hopefully we get some more community partnerships or donors, so that we can buy some more equipment and expand our offering to more people and fulfill different needs.”
Fraser Richfield, a non-profit that offers inclusive childcare and autism, mental health and rehabilitation therapy services to children, adolescents and teens, is located at 2400 W. 64th St.
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