When one Urbana High School senior picked up a paintbrush, she wasn’t just creating art—she was creating access. Inspired by her brother’s experience with a learning disability, Galila Ibrahim designed and painted a sensory playground mural at Centerville Elementary School in Frederick County, Maryland. The goal? To help children of all abilities express themselves and feel seen.
The mural incorporates symbols, emotional expressions, and visual communication tools that children—especially those with sensory processing challenges—can use to identify and share how they feel. What started as a senior project has quickly become a daily tool for connection, empowerment, and emotional learning.
Sensory Spaces Help Kids Feel Safe, Heard, and Included
This isn’t just a feel-good story—what Ibrahim created is backed by decades of research showing that sensory tools help children regulate emotions, improve communication, and engage more confidently with others. For neurodivergent children or kids on the autism spectrum, structured visual spaces like these provide clarity and calm in an otherwise overwhelming environment.
Playgrounds are often loud and chaotic, which can be a major source of anxiety for children with autism or sensory processing disorders. By adding intentional, inclusive designs that support emotional regulation, schools create space where every child feels safe and able to participate.
Inclusion Begins With Understanding—and Action
What makes Ibrahim’s project so impactful is that it wasn’t created for show. It was designed with a clear purpose: to make sure children who struggle to communicate don’t feel left out. As more schools and communities invest in sensory-friendly spaces, they’re not just checking a box—they’re building a foundation of genuine inclusion.
This kind of grassroots effort is exactly what we hope to see more of across Maryland. Real inclusion means meeting children where they are, and it starts with awareness, tools, and compassion built into everyday environments.
We’re Building Inclusive Futures—One Step at a Time
At Actify ABA, we believe that sensory-friendly spaces like this playground mural are an essential part of supporting neurodivergent children. Our autism services in Maryland are built around the same mission: to help children thrive by tailoring support to their individual needs, both at home and in the community.
We know that real progress happens when inclusion is more than just a word—it’s a daily practice. That’s why we partner with families to create structured, evidence-based support systems rooted in understanding and acceptance.
Get in Touch Today to Learn How We Can Help
Get in touch today to learn how our ABA therapy/autism services in Maryland can support your child’s growth and emotional well-being. We offer personalized, in-home care designed to build skills, boost confidence, and create lasting change. We’re here to support your family every step of the way.
