Illustration contrasting "sensory-friendly event" signage with overwhelming reality. Banner reads "Sensory-Friendly Community Event" with icons of headphones, puzzle pieces, and hearts. Background shows loud DJ with strobe lights, bounce house, noisy food truck generator, and balloons. Foreground shows three distressed children sitting on ground covering their ears. One child's thought bubble reads "I thought this was supposed to be quiet." Sign nearby lists promised features: "Low noise, Calming space, Everyone welcome." Face painting booth shows 45-minute wait time.

When Sensory-friendly Isn’t Sensory-friendly: A Call for Better Community Planning

Leave a Comment / Community Support, Mental Health & Wellness, Neurodivergent Parenting /

As Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month comes to a close, many communities proudly highlight their “sensory-friendly” events – spaces meant to welcome autistic children, neurodivergent families, and anyone who benefits from reduced sensory load. But too often, what’s advertised as sensory-friendly ends up looking like the scene so many families know too well: booming speakers, […]

When Sensory-friendly Isn’t Sensory-friendly: A Call for Better Community Planning Read More »