Autism can bring unique challenges, one of which is dealing with sensory sensitivities. For some individuals on the autism spectrum, things like bright lights, loud noises, or crowded places can be overwhelming to the senses. This sensory overload can lead to feelings of anxiety, stress, or even physical discomfort.
That’s why sensory-friendly spaces and events are so important—they provide a calming and sensory-friendly environment where individuals with autism can feel more comfortable and relaxed. Chicago understands this need and offers a variety of public sensory-friendly spaces. At The Clubhouse, we’ve put together a list of the most notable options for autism sensory rooms in Chicago for you and your family to explore, ensuring an enjoyable and accommodating experience for everyone.
The Clubhouse is a pediatric therapy center dedicated to providing comprehensive, collaborative, and compassionate care for children and families. We are committed to creating a supportive environment where every child feels valued, heard, and empowered to achieve their fullest potential.
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Chicago Children’s Museum
Located on Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum is a vibrant destination full of exciting opportunities for sensory exploration. The museum offers a diverse range of exhibits and activities that are designed to engage children in learning through play.
The museum’s environment is crafted to be welcoming and accommodating for children with sensory sensitivities. From the Treehouse Trails, an interactive space featuring a variety of tactile experiences, to quieter corners designed for reflection, the museum provides a space where children can explore and learn at their own pace, making it an ideal venue for families seeking a sensory-friendly experience.
Kohl Children’s Museum
Situated in Glenview, Kohl Children’s Museum is a welcoming haven for families with children who have special needs. The museum hosts special events called “Everyone at Play,” specifically designed to cater to these families. During these events, the museum provides a quieter and calm environment, allowing children and their families to explore the exhibits without the usual hustle and bustle.
This creates a more relaxing and enjoyable experience for children who might find the typical noise and activities overwhelming. This thoughtful approach ensures that all children, regardless of their sensory sensitivities, can participate in and enjoy the museum’s offerings.
Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium provides a welcoming experience for guests with autism and sensory processing disorders by offering a special sensory-friendly app. This app is crafted to support visitors in navigating the aquarium in a way that feels comfortable and engaging. With its user-friendly design, the app provides important information and tips tailored for sensory sensitivities, helping to reduce any potential stress or anxiety.
By integrating this resource, the Shedd Aquarium ensures that all guests, regardless of their sensory needs, can enjoy exploring the fascinating underwater world without feeling overwhelmed. This thoughtful tool underscores the aquarium’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, providing a smoother and more enjoyable visit for everyone.
Goodman Theatre and Chicago Children’s Theatre
Both the Goodman Theatre and the Chicago Children’s Theatre are dedicated to crafting sensory-friendly experiences for their audiences. These special performances are thoughtfully designed with the needs of individuals with sensory sensitivities in mind, providing a more comfortable and enjoyable theater experience.
What makes these performances unique is the careful modification of production elements. For instance, sound levels may be lower to prevent overwhelming auditory stimuli, while lights are kept at a constant level to avoid sudden flashes or bright, harsh lighting.
These adjustments are in place to help reduce sensory overload and create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for everyone in attendance. This approach reflects a deep commitment to accessibility and demonstrates a genuine dedication to making the arts accessible to all.
United Center
The United Center, home to the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks, is certified as a sensory-inclusive venue, making it an accommodating space for individuals with sensory sensitivities. This certification means that the venue has equipped itself with certain features to ensure a more pleasant experience during events.
For instance, the United Center provides sensory bags that contain helpful tools like noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, and verbal cue cards. These items can make a big difference by helping to ease anxiety and allowing guests to feel more at ease during the excitement of a game or concert.
Additionally, the United Center has a designated quiet room, a peaceful space where guests who might become overwhelmed by the noise and energy of the crowd can retreat to take a break and recharge. These adaptations demonstrate the venue’s commitment to inclusivity, allowing everyone to enjoy the thrill of live events while feeling comfortable and supported.
National Museum of Mexican Art
The National Museum of Mexican Art is an exciting and culturally enriching destination that makes it a priority to be accessible to everyone, including individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities. This makes it easier for everyone to enjoy the incredible art collections and exhibitions that celebrate Mexican culture and heritage.
To further enhance the experience for autistic visitors, the museum has developed a special app that can be an invaluable tool in preparing for a visit. The app is thoughtfully designed to help visitors familiarize themselves with what to expect with visual schedules, offering a sense of comfort and preparedness. This forward-thinking approach underscores the museum’s commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that all visitors have the opportunity to appreciate the rich cultural stories told through the art while feeling welcome and supported throughout their visit.
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago is dedicated to making art accessible to everyone, including those with sensory sensitivities. To achieve this, the museum hosts special sensory-friendly mornings. During these times, the environment is carefully adjusted to ensure a more comfortable experience for all visitors. The lighting is dimmed and noise is kept to a minimum, creating a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. These mornings are designed to help individuals feel more at ease while exploring the diverse and inspiring exhibitions on display.
Best Autism Sensory Rooms, Chicago: Final Thoughts
Chicago offers a variety of venues and sensory-friendly attractions tailored to meet the needs of individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities. From aquariums and theaters to art museums and sports arenas, there’s something for everyone to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed. By prioritizing inclusivity, these institutions make it easier for everyone to be a part of the city’s vibrant culture and exciting events.
At The Clubhouse, we are dedicated to providing specialized therapy services that can help your kids thrive in these diverse environments. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your child’s journey toward greater confidence and comfort in daily experiences.
