Within Issue 113
Welcome to the sensory engagement edition of PMLD Link, dedicated to the memory of Richard Hirstwood and Flo Longhorn. In this edition we remember and celebrate the work of both these remarkable people, who contributed so much to the field of sensory education and influenced so many people. We are pleased to invite you to get comfortable, open the journal and enjoy the wonderful contributions by those who recall the work of Richard and Flo, as well as the authors who have continued to explore how to engage people with profound and multiple learning disabilities in a number of exciting and varied multi-sensory ways.
The authors contributions in this edition range from poetry and sensory stories that Flo would have loved, to the wonderful sensory umbrellas inspired by Richard’s influential and fun workshops on the use of brollies. As regards sensory engagement, our authors did not disappoint. The journal is brimming with articles, ranging from one highlighting that “understanding sensory engagement is a foundation for learning in learners with PMLD”, to having fun reporting the weather, and co-authoring sensory theatre.
If you are interested in interpersonal relationships and community participation, you will enjoy reading about Micro-Structures, developed to support people with differing needs in a college setting. If you are interested in music and movement, there is an exploration of sensory sound that captures the essence of how music often goes beyond sound to be an immersive, multi-sensory experience, including visual elements, such as movement, vibration and touch. The article discusses the link between sound, movement, vision, vibration and touch.
Continuing the theme of music there is a wonderful article that reflects on facilitating visual art through multi-sensory music workshops at an art gallery. This article takes you through the creative process of exploring visual art through multi-sensory music. Finally, there are story themed articles, from story massage, to multi-sensory stories, and the power of repetition within stories. There are articles that support understanding of how stories support engagement, communication, while honouring the unique way that people with PMLD express their world, but most of all showing how much fun can be had from a story!
As always, there are several pages of feedback reports from events, and there are news items and information about resources too.
Many thanks to all our contributors for supporting PMLD Link. This journal could not exist without your enthusiasm and willing support. We love reading your articles and appreciate everyone who takes the time to connect with us.
We hope you all enjoy this edition and that you enjoy Springtime too.
The Editors are Maureen Phillip, Bella Travis and Rob Ashdown.
