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   Child Development

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     - Snoezelen

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blank spacer image Snoezelen

The word ‘Snoezelen’ is taken from two Dutch words: “snufflen” meaning to seek out or to explore, and “doezelen” meaning to relax or to be in a wonderful place.

One of our aims at Bloorview Kids Rehab is to provide a quality leisure option for clients. Our Snoezelen rooms, mobile unit and pool have been designed primarily for those who have moderate to severe developmental disabilities and who may have difficulty accessing and using traditional leisure facilities.

To see how Bloorview Kids Rehab is sharing Snoezelen with the world,
check out www.worldwidesnoezelen.com

The in-patient Snoezelen room (opened in 1992) is considered to be Canada’s first Snoezelen room. Clients who access the in-patient room include short-term care, Complex Continuing Care and Respite. The in-patient Snoezelen room is used primarily by Child Life and Therapeutic Recreation staff to provide a reprieve to clients from a stressful hospital environment.

Bloorview also has a mobile Snoezelen unit which was sponsored by hockey player Mats Sundin in 2002. The Snoezelen cart is accessed primarily by Complex ContinuingCare clients who are unable to leave the unit without nursing support, as well as in-patients who might have pain issues that the sensory effects of Snoezelen can help with.

Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities also funded the community Snoezelen room in 1995. Clients of all disabilities and ages can access the community Snoezelen room which is used for in-house therapeutic interventions and as a resource by schools and agencies with special needs children and adults. It is fee-based and appointments are required.

In October 2002, North America’s first Snoezelen pool opened at Bloorview Kids Rehab. A foundation grant of $10,000 enabled the purchase and installation of specialized Snoezelen components. Flaghouse, the leading supplier of Snoezelen equipment in Canada, donated two miniature bubble tubes, a fibre optic spray and a glow in-the-dark parachute. The pool also doubles as a therapy pool for the Centre’s programs.

The Snoezelen pool creates a gently stimulating environment by combining the medicinal effects of a therapy pool with a variety of lights, sounds and textures. The safe, warm and comforting atmosphere provides an opportunity for relaxation as well as being a unique experience for your child or client. Accessible change rooms and tables, ceiling and deck mounted lifts, and pool chairs ensure access for non-mobile clients. A fee-based community based program operates three days a week.

Currently, we provide Snoezelen pool sessions exclusively for clients with both physical and developmental disabilities. Access to the Snoezelen pool is strictly one-on-one.

BOOKING: Please contact Lorraine Thomas at least two weeks in advance to book sessions.

COST: $10.00 per client. Payment for all scheduled pool sessions must be made in advance. If paying by cheque, please make payable to “Bloorview Kids Rehab - Snoezelen Pool” Individual sessions will be re-scheduled only if 48-hour cancellation notice is given.

DAY TIMES
Sundays (all year): Sundays: 2:45 - 3:30 ; 3:30 - 4:15
Mondays (all year): 11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.; 12:30 p.m. - 1:15 p.m.; 1:15 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Saturdays (all year): 11:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.; 12:30 p.m. - 1:15 p.m.

RULES FOR SNOEZELEN POOL ACCESS

All Bloorview pool regulations apply, including the policy of same sex caregivers for changing rooms (family rooms available for older clients) wearing the proper continence device and swimsuit, and taking a shower before entering the Pool. All community sessions will have a lifeguard on duty.

SWIMMERS WITH BLADDER/BOWEL CONTROL issues must wear plastic pants or a liner that is impermeable and has snug leg gathers, under their bathing suit. Failure to do so may result in being turned away the day of the session. Please contact Snoezelen Coordinator or Pool office (416) 425-6220, ext. 3713/6259 for information on purchasing appropriate swim wear.

For safety reasons, access to the Snoezelen pool is strictly ONE-ON-ONE i.e. parent or caregiver with their child or client. Exceptions will be made in cases where a second attendant is needed to facilitate client transfer in and out of water or to assist in the water physically.

We have a SCENT-FREE policy at Bloorview due to staff and clients with chemical sensitivities. Please refrain from wearing perfume in the pool and change room environment.

Anyone with hair longer than shoulder length is required to tie it up so that it is held above the shoulders.

No siblings are allowed.

Community Snoezelen Room & Snoezelen Pool

Lorraine Thomas, Snoezelen Coordinator
Tel #: Dial 1 - 800 - 855 - 0511 to get Bell Relay Operator
At prompt, give (416) 422-7049
Fax: (416) 422- 7037


In-Patient Snoezelen Room

 

Michelle Bernardi (416) 425-6220 ext 6272
Certified Child Life Specialist (CCLS)
Fax #: (416) 753-2440 (24 hour client care)

In-Patient Snoezelen Cart


Lyn Howlett, Early Childhood Specialist / Therapeutic Playroom
Tel #: (416) 425-6220 ext. 6268

 

A teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Toronto

 

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