SENSORY
INCLUSION
ALL CHILDREN ARE WELCOME
Part of the mission of the Modesto Children’s Museum is to enrich the lives of all children. One way we work toward this mission is to celebrate diversity at every level, and to provide the tools to remove barriers and promote participation.
WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH SENSES?
Our world is a busy one. All day, every day, we are continuously taking in information through our senses – the five you probably know (touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing) and some you may not (like balance, movement, and interoception – your body’s internal state and sensation).
Estimates suggest that one out of every four people (a full 25% of us!) has a sensory processing need. Even if you don’t think of yourself being one of them of them, you might have experienced sensory overload in a loud restaurant or theme park!
WHAT IS SENSORY INCLUSIVITY?
Sensory inclusivity is the proactive process of creating environments and experiences that are welcoming to those with sensory sensitivities. Being “inclusive” means that we take concrete steps to remove barriers and promote participation.
You may think of sensory processing needs affecting individuals with autism, but sensory inclusivity also benefits military veterans with PTSD, adults with dementia, people with Parkinson's disease, stroke patients… sensory inclusion is a tool for us all!
HOW CAN MOCHIMU BE ACCESSIBLE TO MY FAMILY?
We are proud to be a certified Sensory Inclusive® organization through our friends at KultureCity®, the world’s leading nonprofit on sensory accessibility and acceptance. Here are some of the amenities we offer for all guests:
KultureCity Sensory Inclusive Bags are available to borrow at the Front Desk. Inside, you’ll find noise-cancelling headphones, fidgets, compression vests, and communication cards. These bags are for all abilities and all ages!
Signage around MoChiMu indicates where you can expect loud “Headphone Zones” and lower-sensory “Quiet Areas” – and since our Team is Sensory Inclusive certified, ask any Team Member for assistance finding them!
The Calm Room is a respite for individuals to relax, unplug, nurse, or spend a calm moment. Just ask a MoChiMu Team Member for access.
Use our Social Story on KultureCity’s website and app to prepare for a visit to the museum!
DOES THE MUSEUM OFFER SENSORY-FRIENDLY events?
We are proud to be launching our new Sensory Friendly Mornings this spring, with a first morning offering on Saturday, February 28th from 8 AM to 10 AM. We invite you to join us for this pilot program if your child would benefit from visiting the museum with modified light & sound levels and sensory-friendly experiences.
At MoChiMu we ignite curiosity, fuel imagination, and transform lives. We cannot fulfill our mission without your help. Support us and our mission by making a donation.