Come to your senses in Newport

All are welcome at the grand opening of The Friend Zone Sensory Gym in the Newport Recreation Center this Friday, Nov. 1. All visitors on opening day can experience the space for up to one hour at no charge.

Miranda Carter, owner of The Friend Zone, conceptualized the sensory gym and worked to introduce this program through Newport Parks and Recreation, assisting the department in continuing its mission to promote inclusive, accessible and interactive experiences. Carter will coordinate with recreation staff members to maintain and oversee the program.

A sensory gym is a specialized environment that provides individuals with an immersive experience of interactive play in a controlled and therapeutic manner. Often, they serve as therapeutic tools for various sensory processing disorders, disabilities and cognitive conditions, and the equipment in the gym is designed to encourage individuals to participate and play together while helping to erase the stigma of accommodation needs.

Equipment in the gym will include balance beams and boards, a crash pad, swings, tap lights and other items that will promote interactive play.

“The sensory gym is a place to regulate your senses, unlock your imagination, engage in gross motor movements and hone your fine motor skills,” said Carter. “The Friend Zone aims to provide a place where we can all play.” 

The space will have public hours Thursdays through Saturdays, and be available for private rentals on Sundays. Rates will be available for both individual sessions, multi-visit passes and private rentals.

The space will be open on opening day from noon until 8 pm, with the public ribbon cutting beginning at 3 pm. The Newport Recreation Center is located at 225 SE Avery Street. For more information, go to FriendZoneOC.com or NewportOregon.gov.