Children with sensory difficulties, and others on the autism spectrum can struggle with the amount of sheer stimulation and social interaction the holidays bring. How can parents, family, and society at large, best navigate the festive season for these kids? Guest host Clare Roth discusses ideas for hosting sensory-friendly celebrations, accessible holiday events in the Columbus area, and more.
Guests:
- Sarah Smalley, office manager, Sensory Solutions LLC
- Melissa Lawrence, program director, Nationwide Children’s Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Luis Biava, conductor, New Albany Symphony
- Lyndsey Vidra, co-owner, We Rock the Spectrum Columbus
- Ryan Scarlata, associate artistic director, Columbus Children’s Theater
Events:
- The New Albany Symphony Orchestra in partnership with the Autism Society of Central Ohio and Methodist Eldercare presents "Santa and the Symphony", a sensory-friendly holiday experience featuring music, crafts, and a special treat for each audience member, on Saturday, December 16 at 11:30am.
- We Rock the Spectrum Columbus Kid's Gym hosts a Grand Opening celebration with food, raffles, fun, special guests and much more at its Lewis Center location Saturday, December 16 from 10am to 5pm.
- A tradition returns to Columbus Children’s Theatre this holiday season in a in a family-friendly, hour-long performance of Mr. Scrooge. Playing Thursday through Sunday now until December 23rd, 2017.
- Gateway Film Center will host a sensory-friendly showing of The Secret of Nihm (1982) on Sunday, December 17 at 11:00am.
- Marcus Theaters offer a number of "Reel Movies for Real Needs" events throughout the year that feature sensory-friendly showings of family-friendly movies. Upcoming films for December include Star Wars: The Last Jedi (12/16) and Ferdinand (12/30).
- AMC Theatres also offer a number of sensory-friendly film showings throughout the year. Two showings of Star Wars: The Last Jedi are planned December 23 and 26.