The calming effect of sensory gardens
Milan Dhaniram - a former Miss Ballito - has been passionate about making a difference in the lives of special needs children from a young age.
On World Autism Day on Sunday, Imbalito Hope College will be expanding its food garden with the addition of a new and delightful sensory garden.
In collaboration with autism advocate Abidah Shaik, a mother of an adolescent with autism, Imbalito will also install a garden at the KwaDukuza Mall in Stanger.
A therapy and education centre for children with special needs, Imbalito Hope College was founded by Milan’s mother, psychologist Nirasha Dhaniram in 2012 to create a safe learning space for her autistic son Mikhail and children like him.
Milan has been passionate about making a difference in the lives of special needs children from a young age.
Crowned Miss Ballito in 2018, she won the best community project award, which included two food gardens – one at the Imbalito Hope College and the other for the Shakaskraal clinic. A third project, the Sibling4Autism support forum, was established at the same time.
Registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa, the 25-year-old said sensory gardens bring together the two areas she gravitates towards – gardening and special needs.
“My late grandmother, affectionately known as Nani, was an avid gardener and I spent a lot of time with her growing up.
“Since then, one of my main goals in life has been to strive for a greener, cleaner environment in which people, including those with disabilities, can come together,” she said.
“Sensory integration processing is an area that is either underdeveloped or overly heightened in individuals who have autism spectrum disorder.
“The word ‘spectrum’ best describes features of autism as it varies in intensity and appearance for each individual diagnosed. Each of the five senses is showcased in creative ways using nature.”
The gardens will also be available for the general public to enjoy.
“I have used many textures, shapes, sounds, tastes, colours and fragrances and I’m sure all will have something to enjoy. I have also left creative room for the children to add on beautiful pieces as they take ownership and grow their outdoor sensory space. People can also learn about different indigenous plant species and about the special features that make plants stand out to our sense of smell and feeling of calmness.”
The health benefits of being in nature are well documented and Milan is certain the garden’s calming effect will be beneficial mentally and emotionally for old and young alike.
“We are looking forward to the days ahead, where special needs children can enjoy viewing the garden, watering the plants, and engage in creative fun activities such as rock art, Easter egg hunts, or making clay art to add to the garden décor. The possibilities are quite endless,” said Milan.
She said the project would not have been possible without the help of Imbalito Hope College staff and students.
If you would like more information on autism, the Siblings4Autism support group or sensory and food gardens, contact Milan at 032 586 0200 or email milan.imbalito@gmail.com.
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