Carnegie Science Center Adds Sensory-Friendly Hours

Pittsburgh Parent

 

 

 

As part of its ongoing efforts to create inclusive experiences for all visitors, Carnegie Science Center will implement Sensory Sensitive Science Hours on select Sundays, during which exhibits will be modified and activities will be added to accommodate visitors on the autism spectrum and those with sensory sensitivities. The first event is scheduled for 10 am–1 pm Sunday, Nov. 18.

“We developed Sensory Sensitive Science Hours to offer a welcoming museum experience for individuals who typically might not feel comfortable in the Science Center due to sensitivity to light, sound, or crowds,” said Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh Accessibility Coach Justin Tognarine. “By providing staff training and adjusting our exhibits, demonstrations, and activities, we hope to create a safe, welcoming, and most of all, fun, environment for all visitors.”

In addition to limiting sounds and adjusting lighting in exhibit areas, Science Center staff will feature special animal encounters in the H2Oh! Field Station, sponsored by ALCOSAN 3 Rivers Proud; a sensory activity table with tactile objects in the Miniature Railroad & Village®, presented by Klavon’s Ice Cream Parlor; a sensory-friendly "Move It, Move It" live demonstration in the BodyStage, presented by Allegheny Health Network; a sensory-friendly "Earth & Friends" live demonstration in the Works Theater; and floor demonstrations in Highmark SportsWorks®. Included with general admission.

For an additional cost on Sunday, Nov. 18, visitors can enjoy a sensory sensitive screening of the new Grinch film in The Rangos Giant Cinema. The film will be shown in 2D, with the theater’s lighting adjusted to accommodate visitors with sensory sensitivities.

Sensory Sensitive Science Hours will also take place 10 am–1 pm on the following dates:

  • Sunday, March 17, 2019
  • Sunday, June 16, 2019
  • Sunday, October 20, 2019

For more information, contact Manager of Marketing, Public Relations, and Social Media Nicole Chynoweth at ChynowethN@CarnegieScienceCenter.org or 814.421.5315.
 

About Carnegie Science Center
Carnegie Science Center is dedicated to inspiring learning and curiosity by connecting science and technology with everyday life. By making science both relevant and fun, the Science Center’s goal is to increase science literacy in the region and motivate young people to seek careers in science and technology. One of the four Carnegie Museums of Pittsburgh, the Science Center is Pittsburgh’s premier science exploration destination, reaching more than 700,000 people annually through its hands-on exhibits, camps, classes, and off-site education programs.

This article appears in the Web 2019 issue of Pittsburgh Parent.

Related