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At Port Discovery Children’s Museum, we consider each baby deserves the prospect to play, study, and develop in an atmosphere that celebrates who they’re. That’s why we proudly assist neurodiverse youngsters and their households via inclusive applications, sensory-friendly areas, and employees coaching that fosters empathy and understanding.
What is Neurodiversity?
Neurodiversity acknowledges that neurological variations—resembling autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and different studying disabilities—are pure variations of the human mind. Children who’re neurodivergent might expertise the world in distinctive methods, and that variety brings invaluable views and strengths to our neighborhood. This understanding is grounded within the idea defined by Harvard Health Publishing.
According to the latest CDC information from 2020, roughly 1 in 36 youngsters below age 8 in Maryland are recognized with autism, highlighting the significance of recognizing and supporting neurodivergent people inside our communities.
Sources: Harvard Health Blog; Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Upcoming Port Discovery Events Supporting Neurodiversity
October 24, 2025: Opening of the Skies Exhibit (Low-Sensory Space)
We’re excited to debut our brand-new Skies exhibit—designed as a devoted low-sensory area for kids and households. This calm, quiet atmosphere encourages exploration and play at your baby’s personal tempo. Build forts in our night-time forest or snuggle up in a comfy nook to learn collectively.
October 25, 2025: Special Screening of Carl the Collector
Join us for a particular screening of Carl the Collector, a PBS KIDS present that follows Carl, a lovable raccoon who enjoys accumulating treasures and spending time with pals—all whereas navigating life on the autism spectrum.
This occasion is introduced in partnership with Maryland Public Television and the Kennedy Krieger Institute. Following the screening, friends from the Kennedy Krieger Institute will lead a dialogue discussion board concerning the present’s themes and illustration of neurodiversity.
How Port Discovery Supports Neurodiverse Guests All Year Long
1. Sensory-Friendly Play Sessions
We host devoted Sensory Friendly Sundays on the third Sunday of each month (September-May) and different designated afternoons in Port Discovery throughout which the Museum is modified to create a extra calming atmosphere. These periods characteristic:
- Reduced noise and lighting ranges
- Smaller crowds and restricted capability
- Quiet areas for breaks and self-regulation
- Staff skilled in sensory consciousness and communication methods
These occasions are designed in partnership with professionals and suggestions from neurodiverse households to make sure a really welcoming expertise.
2. Inclusive Exhibit Design
From tactile reveals to quiet corners, we thoughtfully design our areas to assist a spread of sensory wants and studying types. Many reveals supply hands-on, interactive alternatives that permit youngsters to discover at their very own tempo and in their very own manner.
3. Tools for Preparation and Comfort
We supply assets like social tales, sensory maps, and visible schedules on our web site and at our welcome desk. These instruments assist put together households for his or her go to and assist youngsters in navigating the museum with confidence.
4. Staff Training & Awareness
Our workforce participates in ongoing skilled improvement to make sure we perceive and embrace neurodiverse wants. Whether it’s utilizing inclusive language, providing visible helps, or just being affected person and versatile, we try to fulfill each visitor with kindness and respect.
Listening and Learning from Our Community
The most vital voices on this work are these of neurodivergent youngsters and their caregivers. We are frequently studying from households who share their experiences, and we welcome your enter as we proceed to develop.
If you may have suggestions, ideas, or concepts for a way we will higher assist neurodiversity at Port Discovery, please attain out. Your voice issues.
Join Us
We invite all households to go to, discover, and expertise the enjoyment of discovery collectively. Learn extra about our accessibility initiatives and upcoming sensory-friendly occasions by visiting our Accessibility & Inclusion web page.
Together, let’s construct a extra inclusive world—one play session at a time.
This web page was created programmatically, to learn the article in its authentic location you may go to the hyperlink bellow:
https://www.portdiscovery.org/neurodiversity-inclusion-at-port-discovery-sensory-friendly-fun-for-all/
and if you wish to take away this text from our web site please contact us
