Magic Table (Tovertafel)
Nillumbik Shire Council has installed a Magic Table at the Hurstbridge Community Hub.
What is a Magic Table?
The Magic Table (or ‘Tovertafel’ in the Netherlands, where the table originated) is an interactive games system that involves moving images and objects projected onto a table that seats six to eight people.
The Magic Table creates interactive experiences through projected animations on a table surface, so players are able to pop images of bubbles, or send balls, flowers or leaves across the table to others. The games are designed to promote physical movement, social interaction and cognitive stimulation.
Games range from calm and soothing underwater scenes to more challenging puzzles and fun activities such as a simple 'whack-a-mole’.
Benefits
While it can be enjoyed by all, the Magic Table is of particular benefit to people with dementia and people with cognitive and sensory disabilities. It also includes high-contrast games for people with low vision.
Availability and bookings
The Magic Table is available in the Training Room at the Hurstbridge Community Hub, 50 Graysharps Road, Hurstbridge.
- Open for free public use every Monday 9am to 12pm, and every Wednesday and Friday 9am to 3pm.
- Available for private bookings on Tuesdays, Thursdays and weekends, 9am to 3pm. Hire fees apply.
To book a private Magic Table session, visit Bookable Nillumbik and select 'Training Room'. The Magic Table is located in the Training Room.
What people are saying
“I have three little children that attend the Hub childcare. We stumbled on the room with the projector and the projection of the fish swimming in the pond. We quickly figured out that the fish responded to our touch. The kids (and myself) absolutely loved it. It has brought a lot of joy to us on those mornings. Thank you.”
Hurstbridge mum
“We took people from the Memory Care Café to try the Magic Table, with the carers first and they loved it, thought it was wonderful. Then with the group with dementia, wow that was something else! They were having such a good time. They were all loving it! Thanks so much for making this possible!”
Memory Care Café Coordinator
Image gallery