These special days are meant for individuals of all ages with autism, complex developmental disabilities.
Bethel Woods Center for the Arts has announced their new initiative, Sensory-Friendly Days at The Museum. Made possible with support and collaboration from The Center for Discovery and New Hope Community, individuals of all ages with autism, complex developmental disabilities, or sensory sensitivities are welcome to experience the Main Exhibit, gift shop, and cafe during special early-morning hours before The Museum opens to the general public.
Beginning April 10th and occurring on the second Saturday of every month, trained staff and volunteers will be positioned throughout The Museum to engage visitors in sensory explorations, direct them to quiet spaces if needed, and answer questions about the displays. The Museum's sound and lighting features will be augmented to allow for a more enjoyable experience and to help reduce sensory stimulation. Bethel Woods has also created the following materials specific to the Main Exhibit to encourage familiarity and comfort. The Sensory Map helps visitors navigate by indicating areas of high stimulation, including noisy, dark, crowded, or bright spaces. A Social Narrative will help guests adjust to a potentially new social situation by describing The Museum environment, highlighting important cues, and offering examples of appropriate ways to respond. Copies of the Sensory Map as well as the Social Narrative will be available at the Welcome Desk every day that The Museum is open, in an effort to support the diverse spectrum of visitors to The Museum outside of designated Sensory Days. Materials can be downloaded in advance from the Bethel Woods website in preparation for these visits.April 3-December 31: Open 7 days a week, 10 AM - 5 PM
Please note The Museum will open to the public at 10:30 AM on the second Saturday of each month because of Sensory-Friendly Museum Days.
During Peace, Love & Lights (November 19, 2021 - January 2, 2022): 10 AM - 10 PM.
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