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Sensory
Night At

hey come cautiously, uncertain—both children and adults.
The step through the double glass doors is a big one. For
just an instant they think about turning back. But they
T have talked about this for weeks, actually months, and
tonight is the night. They are coming to the Golisano Children’s
Museum of Naples (C’mon) to experience Sensory Night.
Sensory Night is a carefully crafted monthly experience for
small groups of children on the Autism spectrum and/or with
other sensory integration disorders. After-hours (5-7 pm on the
fourth Tuesday of every month), the loud music is turned off, and
other sensory distractions minimized (electric hand dryers in the
restroom are turned off along with strobe lights in the exhibits). learned acceptance in the Sensory Night environment encourages
This is a safe haven for the children and their parents. Parents do not the children (up to age 18) to expand their social skills. Not only
have to struggle with the social reaction that may come from their do they learn how to interact comfortably with adults including
child’s emotional outbursts or aloofness. The other parents already teachers and other parents, but they make new friends who are “just
understand. For the first time in a long time, the parents let their like them.” Building friendships can be very difficult for children
guard down, and enjoy the discoveries made by their children. with special needs. But C’mon’s Sensory Night breaks down barriers
Month after month they visit C’mon and soon the group is an of social judgement, ability level divisions, and traditional teaching
extension of their family, the adults have developed a cherished techniques to make learning and socializing easy and comfortable
support group. They share play dates and holidays. As time goes for the participants. To learn more and hear one parent’s first-hand
on, the children are comfortable in this new environment. The experience, visit: www.cmon.org/sensory-night/ and watch the video.
teachers are now their friends and they proudly high five them Sensory Night meets participants at their own level, then
as they walk in the door. Eventually they become brave and are presents them with new learning opportunities that help them
willing to try to visit C’mon at another time—Members Only grow and succeed. Lessons and experiences are created that test
Hour. And for a few participants, they make it all the way and their senses, especially smell and touch. Thanks to funding from
attend the Museum during regular hours. an anonymous donor, admission for Sensory Nights is only $5 per
This story, based on fact not fiction, is repeated over and over. The person. Accessibility for all is a serious commitment at C’mon.

26 Life in Naples | December 2018