In recognition of World Autism Awareness Month, Mid-America Science Museum will host a Sensory Day on Tuesday, April 4. Sensory Day runs from 9 AM-11 AM and is designed for families and children with autism or other sensory sensitivities. Funded by the Elisabeth D. Wagner Foundation, the first 125 event participants will receive free admission to the museum.
“We started this program back in February to make sure the museum was a welcoming place for all our young learners,” said Mid-America Science Museum’s CEO, Diane LaFollette. “The museum is an exciting place with loud sounds and bright lights, which can be overwhelming for some of our guests who are sensitive to so much sensory stimulation. On Sensory Days, we turn down the lights and the volume to ensure the museum is a place for all curious minds.”
Held on Tuesdays from 9 AM-11 AM, Sensory Days at Mid-America occur four times throughout the year. Thanks to the Elisabeth D. Wagner Foundation, this year admission is free for the first 125 children and their families attending each event. Sensory Days also feature a sensory guide available at the museum’s website for safely exploring each exhibit and sensory backpacks available at the front desk with noise reducing headphones, sunglasses, and fidget toys. During Sensory Day hours, high sensory exhibits will be turned off allowing guests to limit their exposure to sensory stimuli.
Located at 500 Mid America Blvd in Hot Springs, AR, the Mid-America Science Museum’s mission is to stimulate interest in science, to promote public understanding of the sciences, and to encourage life-long science education through interactive exhibits and programs. The museum’s general admission is $12 for adults, $10 for children ages 3-12 and seniors aged 65 and older, and $11 for teachers and military. The museum hours are Tuesday through Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM, and Sundays, 1 to 5 PM. For more information, visit https://midamericamuseum.org/ or call (501) 767-3461.
