At Your Own Pace: Turtle Bay’s Sensory Hour

With dim lights, low sound, and a relaxed atmosphere, Turtle Bay’s Sensory Hour is an event for individuals of all ages with Autism Spectrum Disorders and/or Sensory Processing sensitivities and their families to experience the museum at their own pace. 

“Our goal is to make Sensory Hour a comfortable environment for individuals with a variety of sensory differences,” says Katie Weber, Turtle Bay’s Lead Educator.

While it is a dedicated hour, guests are also welcome to stay the remainder of the day to explore the rest of the park and bring along their own fidgets, ear protection, and other sensory resources.

According to a survey taken by past participants, the accommodations that are most appreciated include limited capacity, free admission, interactions with community partners such as Rowell Family Empowerment, and provided Social Narrative (to give visuals and step-by-step expectations for visitors). 

“Sensory Hour is one of the many ways we get to live out our values and vision and provide the unique experience that is Turtle Bay to people that may otherwise not be able to enjoy a visit,” says Weber. “By increasing accessibility, we communicate to our whole community just how important they are to us all. Sensory Hour at the Garden of Lights was a great example of just how valuable and needed these programs are for many families. Sensory Hour does require preparation between educating staff, working with community partners, making adjustments to our operations or facilities, and developing program activities, but I hope our sponsors, members, and community see its value and help us continue this program.”

The majority of registrants are not members of Turtle Bay, says Weber, so they are invited to purchase discounted memberships to the museum after their experience. This program is free. However, pre-registration is required and space is limited. 

For more information and to register, please call 530-242-3108 or visit turtlebay.org/events.