In December of 2023, Marbles Kids Museum opened a one-of-a-kind exhibit focused on sensory exploration. The space formally known as Sea Shapes has transformed into Under the Waves. Located on the first floor of the museum, this exhibit was created for children of all abilities who seek a peaceful environment for sensory play. Prepare to dive into the deep sea with this immersive, multi-sensory experience that was developed and designed by Team Marbles.
Nestled behind closed doors to limit sound exposure, Under the Waves is a space with dimmer lighting and calming hues of blue to reflect the tranquility of the deep sea. Upon entering the exhibit guests can find a larger-than-life octopus with weighted tentacles and textured fabric, a color-changing bubble tube, and compression canoes to climb into. Guests can also interact with a colorful shadow wall, crawl into an underwater-like cave that leads to a reading nook, and play in the arms of a sea anemone. Each feature of Under the Waves supports sensory-seeking needs or supports emotional regulation. All guests are encouraged to utilize this space as needed during their time at Marbles.
During the design process of this exhibit, Team Marbles members held focus groups with parents and caregivers to fully understand the needs and wants of the community. Marbles’ Exhibits and Events Learning Engagement Coordinator, MG Guzik says, “It’s been a really rewarding experience working with Team Marbles on the Under the Waves exhibition, but we couldn’t have done it without the guidance from our community focus groups and expert consultants. The development and research that went into this project have changed our outlook on exhibit design and play planning for future exhibits to come, making Marbles a place that everyone can enjoy!”
Sensory play is important for all children, helping develop necessary skills that support emotional regulation, creativity, imagination, fine motor skills, and more. Children who are sensory-seeking or sensory-sensitive use stimulating activities like spinning, snuggling weighted objects, and visuals to self-regulate. Sensory spaces are commonly secluded rooms with only a few activities — Team Marbles wanted to change that and create an immersive sensory play experience. “While many museums have quiet rooms or calm rooms, they often feel like time-out spaces. Under the Waves has been intentionally designed by our team to be a time-in space for play,” says Hardin Engelhardt, Marbles’ Chief Learning Officer.
Under the Waves is only a part of sensory play at Marbles. Sensory Friendly Playtime takes place at least once each month, offering families with children who have sensory sensitivities or developmental differences a chance to experience the museum for free in a calmer and quieter environment. Included is a Lights Up, Sound Down, documentary in the IMAX Theater where the sound has been lowered and the theater lights are left on. This event also offers families a chance to connect with local resources and other families in the community. This free program, sponsored by ABS Kids, helps create inclusive spaces for one-of-a-kind play and experiences. To learn more and register for the next Sensory Friendly Playtime, visit MarblesKidsMuseum.org/sensory-friendly-playtime.
As a community non-profit, Marbles Kids Museum relies on donor support to fund its one-of-a-kind, play-based learning experiences. Under the Waves and sensory programming is enabled by generous support from the community. To learn how you or your company can advance Marbles’ inclusive programming, contact Avery Goldman at [email protected].
Marbles Kids Museum is committed to ensuring its unique, award-winning museum experience is available and accessible to every child. Located in Downtown Raleigh, Marbles’ creative and play-based experiences contribute to children’s intellectual growth, social and emotional well-being, and healthy development. A new environment of sensory play awaits. You can plan your visit to dive Under the Waves at MarblesKidsMuseum.org/plan-your-visit.