Bangkok Patana’s Foundation Stage recently became a vibrant hub for collaboration as nearly 100 educators from schools across Bangkok gathered to focus on an essential question: How can we create rich sensory experiences that enable every child to thrive?
The afternoon formed part of the Early Years Inclusion Hub series — a unique initiative that brings together teachers, learning assistants, therapists and school leaders to share expertise and strengthen inclusive practice. This term’s theme centred on sensory development and its role in fostering engagement, regulation, and learning for young children.
Our visitors spent time immersed in the Foundation Stage environment, observing first-hand how carefully curated spaces can support children’s sensory needs. From quiet nooks for self-regulation to outdoor areas alive with texture, sound and movement, the environment told the story of Patana’s commitment to our Teaching and Learning practices — where fostering belonging and ensuring participation are core principles.
Research-Informed Practice
Sensory play is more than just fun — it is vital to brain development. Research from the Harvard Center on the Developing Child, highlights that multisensory experiences strengthen neural connections and support executive functioning skills such as attention and self-control. Dr. Jean Ayres, a pioneer in sensory integration theory, described sensory experiences as the “nourishment for the brain,” essential for motor coordination, emotional regulation and social participation. Ruth Swailes discusses that with motor coordination comes movement fluency and the ability to connect movements and marks, the earliest development stage of handwriting.
During the hub session, participants explored the impact of sensory processing differences on children’s ability to participate fully in learning. Practical workshops focused on identifying children who may need additional sensory support and designing environments that balance stimulation with calm. Presentations from the Patana team included “Sensory Play in the Environment – Beyond the Mess” and an informative session “Supporting Language and Learning through Sensory Play”
A Community of Learners
One of the most powerful aspects of the Inclusion Hub is the spirit of collaboration it fosters. Educators shared challenges and successes, reflected on case studies, and co-created strategies they could take back to their own schools.
Participants left inspired, commenting on how the hub deepened their understanding of the connection between sensory development and inclusive learning. “It was valuable to see theory put into practice,” noted one visiting teacher. “Seeing first-hand, how thoughtful design can make participation possible for everyone has left me feeling totally inspired. Bangkok Patana Early Years is the best!”
The Patana Commitment
At Bangkok Patana, inclusion is not an initiative but a mindset. The Inclusion Hub is one way we live out this commitment — by opening our doors, sharing practice, and learning together with the wider educational community.
As the hub concluded, there was a shared sense of purpose: to continue building environments where every child — regardless of background, ability or need — feels they belong and can participate fully, to learn and grow. This collaboration strengthens not just individual schools, but the entire Bangkok education community.