The Leatherhead and Dorking Gymnastics Club sensory room is one of those hidden gems we absolutely love sharing at Fun & Play. Designed to be calm, inclusive and supportive, this sensory space offers children a safe environment to explore movement, light, texture and sound at their own pace( whether they have SEND, sensory processing differences, or simply benefit from a quieter, more regulated play setting).
In this post, we’re taking a closer look at the Leatherhead and Dorking Gymnastics Club sensory room, why it’s such a valuable local resource for families, and everything you need to know before visiting, from location and parking to opening times and who it’s best suited for 💛
What is the Leatherhead and Dorking Gymnastics Club sensory room?
The Leatherhead and Dorking Gymnastics Club sensory room is a dedicated sensory play space within the facilities of Leatherhead and Dorking Gymnastics Club. Unlike busy soft play centres, this room is carefully designed to feel calm, predictable and welcoming.
It’s particularly popular with:
- Children with SEND
- Children with autism or sensory sensitivities
- Children with hypotonia or low muscle tone
- Younger children who find busy environments overwhelming
That said, the Leatherhead and Dorking Gymnastics Club sensory room is also lovely for typically developing children who enjoy gentle sensory exploration in a quieter space.
The 3 types of sessions available in the sensory room
One of the things we love most about the Leatherhead and Dorking Gymnastics Club sensory room is that sessions are thoughtfully structured by age and need. There are three different types of sessions, making it easier for families to find the right fit.
🌈 Sensory sessions (SEND-specific)
These sessions are:
- Exclusively for children with disabilities and their carer
- Free of charge
- Designed to be calm, supportive and low-pressure
Sensory sessions are ideal for children who need a quieter environment, extra space, or more time to explore. Numbers are kept low, and the focus is on regulation, comfort and enjoyment rather than structured activities.
This makes the Leatherhead and Dorking Gymnastics Club sensory room a truly inclusive and accessible option for SEND families.
👶 Baby sessions (0–1.5 years)
Baby sessions are designed especially for little ones aged 0 to 1.5 years, offering:
- Soft, padded equipment
- Gentle sensory stimulation
- A safe space for early movement and exploration
These sessions are perfect for babies who are starting to roll, crawl, pull up and explore their bodies in a calm, supportive environment.
🚼 Parent & toddler sessions (1.5–4 years)
Parent and toddler sessions are aimed at children aged 1.5 to 4 years and their carers.
They offer:
- Sensory-rich play without overwhelm
- Opportunities to climb, roll and balance
- A relaxed environment where toddlers can explore at their own pace
These sessions are a lovely introduction to sensory play for toddlers who may not yet be ready for busy play centres.
What you’ll find inside the sensory room
While setups can change, the sensory room typically includes a range of soft, supportive and engaging equipment, such as:
- Soft play shapes and padded mats
- Sensory lighting (gentle, not overwhelming)
- Tactile resources to explore touch and texture
- Equipment that supports rolling, climbing and balance
- A contained, safe layout that feels predictable
Everything is designed to encourage movement and exploration without pressure or overstimulation, which makes it especially supportive for children who need extra time or reassurance.
Practical information for families
📍 Location
The Leatherhead and Dorking Gymnastics Club sensory room is located at the club’s main facility in Leatherhead, Surrey, with easy access from Dorking and surrounding areas.
🚗 Parking
- On-site or nearby parking is available
- Parking is generally straightforward, making visits less stressful for families
⏰ Opening times
Sessions usually run at specific times during the week and may be:
- Term-time only
- Pre-booked sessions
- Aimed at specific age groups
Because session times can change, we always recommend checking directly with the club before visiting.
🎟 Booking
- Sessions typically require advance booking
- Numbers are kept small to maintain a calm environment
Why families love the Leatherhead and Dorking Gymnastics Club sensory room
Parents often tell us they value:
- The calm, non-judgemental atmosphere
- Clear session structure by age and need
- A genuinely inclusive SEND offering
- A space where children aren’t rushed or pressured
At Fun & Play, we hear again and again that the Leatherhead and Dorking Gymnastics Club sensory room feels welcoming, thoughtful and truly family-centred.
FAQs: Leatherhead and Dorking Gymnastics Club sensory room
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Do children need a diagnosis to attend sensory sessions?
Sensory sessions are specifically for children with disabilities and their carer. It’s best to check directly with the club if you’re unsure whether a session is suitable.
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Are the sensory sessions really free?
Yes, sensory sessions are free of charge, which makes this an incredibly valuable local resource.
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What age are baby and toddler sessions for?
Baby sessions are for 0–1.5 years, and parent & toddler sessions are for 1.5–4 years.
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Is the sensory room suitable for children with hypotonia?
Yes. The padded equipment and gentle movement opportunities are particularly supportive for children with low muscle tone.
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Is the environment noisy or busy?
No. Sessions are designed to be calm, with controlled lighting and sound.
Final thoughts from Fun & Play 💛
The Leatherhead and Dorking Gymnastics Club sensory room is a fantastic example of inclusive, thoughtful provision for families in Surrey. With SEND-specific free sensory sessions alongside baby and toddler options, it truly meets children where they are.
If you’re looking for a calm, supportive place for your child to explore and move, this one is well worth knowing about.
And as always, for more SEND-friendly activities, gentle play ideas and local family finds, Fun & Play is here for you ✨
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