A Win in the Fight for Inclusivity

As of late, a very welcomed change in the fight for inclusivity has swept across the country. More and more retailers and entertainment providers are seeking to provide all of their customers with enjoyable experiences—even if that means adjusting things to make the setting more sensory-friendly.

Sensory Friendly Solutions estimated that up to 33% of people experience sensory sensitivity, so it’s imperative that institutions make changes to ensure that everyone feels included. According to The New York Times, the same things that are often engrossing and interesting to some customers can be overwhelming, and even threatening, to people who have trouble processing stimuli.

In 2022, we are seeing more and more places become accommodating to the sensory needs of customers and visitors. Matti Wallin, who is the accessibility programs manager with the Houston Museum of Natural Science puts the mission into words, “Being more accessible helps everybody… it’s creating programs and resources that don’t have people feeling like they’re separate”.

Many institutions are choosing to shift to become Certified Autism Centers (CAC). Under this certification, businesses can ensure that their facilities undergo training in sensory adaptations and ensure that their staff members know how to handle any situations that may arise as a result of sensory overload. Many zoos, aquariums, museums, and stadiums have been creating sensory-friendly exhibits, quiet places, and more in order to accommodate families with special needs.

In late 2021, public lands and parks become more accessible than before for people with autism. Many parks shared that they are committed to making nature inclusive. To create a more accessible experience, locations have begun to create quiet spaces off of popular trails, and have assembled task forces of staff that are trained to work with those in need. Additionally, several stores have begun dedicating certain days to opening early, dimming lights, turning off the music, and limiting foot traffic. Through these acts, retailers are able to provide customers who may have sensory processing sensitivities with the opportunity to shop comfortably. There have been many other examples of the growing inclusivity, from one New Hampshire Museum’s sensory-friendly exhibit to Disney Parks updating their disability access services.

This initiative has certainly spread far, as we see that dozens of public libraries, emergency resources, therapy centers, hospitals, and more have become CAC-certified. Additionally, school districts, as a whole can get certified or can provide individual certification to educators. If you are interested in learning about how schools get certified, visit this page. Not only does this continue to increase understanding, but it ensures that individuals with autism can have great experiences surrounded by people who are confident in their knowledge about autism.

The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), which creates the CAC certifications, proves that there are many benefits to creating a sensory-friendly environment, including gaining confidence in guest scenarios and increasing market revenue.

While there are always improvements to be made, seeing these changes being normalized is a fantastic step forward for communities across the nation. As more zoos, museums, stadiums, airports, and shopping centers shift their prerogative to be more inclusive, we hope all individuals continue to feel as if they can attend any institution they wish to without stimuli processing interfering with that.