The Lancaster Museum of Art and History (MOAH) is kicking off a year-round, in-person sensory-friendly program, just in time for Autism Acceptance Month in April.
Programming is designed to offer a more accessible, inclusive and enjoyable experience for visitors experiencing autism and other hyper/hypo-sensitivities.
The first “Sensory-Friendly Early Hours” event will take place in-person on Monday, April 12 from 10 to 11 a.m.
Museum staff said they know how important it is for visitors experiencing autism to be comfortable with their surroundings. That’s why they have an accessibility section on their website www.lancastermoah.org/accessibility.
Also, during the special open hours, the lighting in the museum will be dimmed and the sound levels that are a part of artworks will also be lowered.
MOAH will even have a place where guests can take a break in a quiet, dimly lit room.
Meanwhile, speech cards will be available in English and Spanish to assist non-verbal visitors. Optional sensory-friendly programming activities will include a multi-sensory tour and a hands-on art activity.
In addition to sensory-friendly programming, the Lancaster Museum of Art and History and the Lancaster Performing Arts Center will be lit blue in support of the community during Autism Awareness Month. This program was developed in partnership with Antelope Valley Seed and Grow, a non-profit organization that serves families with children experiencing autism. The initiative is generously supported by the Art Bridges Foundation.
To learn more about The Lancaster Museum of Art and History’s sensory-friendly programming and other components of the museum’s inclusion and accessibility initiative visit www.lancastermoah.org/accessibility.
