Navigating sensory-friendly performances

Help Navigating Sensory-Friendly Performances

By Ann Marie Raddell, Director of Creative Arts Therapies at The Fine Arts Association in Willoughby

As a music therapist and mom of two children with disabilities, I fully understand the importance of normalcy. Participation in a sensory-friendly experience allows a family to enjoy a fun and enriching outing without the factors that sometimes come with having a loved one with a disability, such as fear of disturbing others or not having a successful experience. Along with the important family and social engagement, there are benefits such as selfexpression, communication, and language development.

Here are answers to a few common questions about attending a sensory-friendly performance, as well as information about how to interact with the arts.

How do I ensure my loved one with special needs is prepared to attend a sensory-friendly performance (before and after)? How can I help them benefit from the experience?

It’s important for families to research what to expect during a sensory-friendly performance experience. Families know their child(ren) best and will know how to best assist their loved one in navigating what could be a new experience.

While most theaters probably attempt to keep the sensory-friendly performance aspects consistent, there might be some differences for one venue versus another. Some theaters even allow a family to call ahead and explore the theater prior to a performance.

If the sensory-friendly performance is a musical, listening to the music prior to the performance could be helpful for the participants. I know my own sense of excitement when I get to hear a song that I know — and it’s even better while experiencing it live.

How can I engage my loved one with special needs in theater and music to get them more comfortable interacting and experiencing the performances?

Repetition has so much value in allowing those with disabilities to become more comfortable in experiencing performances. Listening to the music, finding pictures of the theater or characters, and/ or talking about the storyline all can assist in making the experience more engaging.

Social stories or picture icons also may help prepare an individual for a new encounter, such as live theater.