“Oh, the weather outside is frightful…”
In these long winter months, many NC families are looking for indoor entertainment. It’s too cold to jump on the backyard trampoline, too icy to run at the park. Many will turn to indoor play areas, shows, and movies.
But these are not always good options for families who have loved ones with autism. Individuals with autism often are sensitive to sensory stimuli, and they may react in ways that are not typical, which can lead to judgment by others. They need a flexible and accepting environment so they can enjoy the activity.
See a photo story from DPAC’s “Grinch”: https://spark.adobe.com/page/NBM0fNDJ6NbTF/
Fortunately, more and more businesses and organizations are offering “sensory-friendly” options so individuals with autism and their families can enjoy the same activities as other families. An example last month was the “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical” at Durham Performing Arts Center, made possible by sponsors Duke Health and SunTrust. DPAC’s special matinee included adjustments to the production, including fewer loud noises and flashing lights; designated quiet sections; and volunteers to assist families.
The showing was a great success and much appreciated by area families. One parent wrote, “Thank you so much for this special show! My 6-year-old son had the best time of his life. It was such a relief to be in a theater and know your child can feel free to be who he is, without having to worry. He laughed, sang, spent some time in the aisle, and wasn’t overwhelmed by the lights or sounds (as he sometimes is).”
Another said, “I cannot thank you enough for today’s performance. Hundreds of families in our community went to the theater today that would have otherwise not considered it. When you have a special needs child, it is hard to get out of the house sometimes. It is hard to spend money on events that you may have to walk out of within minutes if your child’s behavior isn’t in line with norms. Today, DPAC gave us a welcoming environment. We enjoyed a show and felt the support of DPAC staff and the other families surrounding us. Children around me were laughing and cheering.”
We thank DPAC, Duke Health, and SunTrust for making this experience possible for our families!
Find activities near you
Some movie theaters in NC now offer sensory-friendly shows; check with your local theater. AMC Theatres offers them in the Charlotte and Triangle areas, saying “we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! Our Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday (family-friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month.” Check their website for more information.
ASNC Chapters are another great resource for sensory-friendly activities as well as social events that are family-friendly with a welcoming atmosphere. A few examples:
- Onslow: Sensory-friendly movies in Jacksonville
- Johnston: Open Gym Night at Church at Clayton Crossings, one Friday a month
- Orange/Chatham: Regularly scheduled social events, including an upcoming bowling party
- Crystal Coast: Friends & Fun on the second Saturday monthly and music therapy on the third Saturday
Find events on our calendar; find a Chapter near you on our website.
And finally, be sure to join ASNC’s Facebook group, where events and activities from around the state are posted.
Tags: ASNC, asnc chapters, autism, autism society of NC, Autism Society of North Carolina, Autism spectrum, Autism Spectrum Disorder, autism support, autism support group, sensory friendly, sensory issues