Snoezel room in Bernhard Heising Haus: relaxation for special children

Snoezel room in Bernhard Heising Haus: relaxation for special children

in the heart of Herford, in the facility in Bernhard Heising Haus, a revolutionary method is used to support children with special needs. Here, in the Regenbogenland day group, nine children between the ages of three and six are looked after, including many with autism or Down syndrome. These children, who often cannot speak, experience a world full of charms that they can overwhelm. But now there is a place that offers you peace and security: the Snoezel-area!

The Snoezel area is a real miracle of relaxation. Equipped with gentle colors and a calming atmosphere, it is a retreat that was designed especially for children with special needs. The focus is on a fascinating, liquid -filled column that glows in hypnotizing colors and lets small reflectors rise. This meditative light show helps the children to relax and reduce fears. "The concept has been tried and tested for 40 years and comes from the Netherlands," explains Head of Beate Schulz. "Here the children can sharpen their senses and learn to deal with stress."

a place of security and strengthening

In this stimulating environment, the children have the opportunity to concentrate on their senses. The atmosphere not only promotes relaxation, but also strengthens the bond with the supervisors. "Particularly important for children who cannot speak," continued Schulz. The children already show great interest in this new space. "Those who cannot speak simply stand at the door and show us that they want in. These are small but significant experiences of success for us," she reports proudly.

The support of the Rotary Club Herford has contributed significantly to the setting up of the Snoezel area. "We have great respect for work here," says Dr. Ulrich Quellmalz from the club. The donations not only enabled the Snoezel space, but also promoted other projects such as an external trampoline and computer during the Corona period. These initiatives show how important it is to provide children with special needs a safe space in which they can develop.