Autism accommodations – Autism Connection of Pennsylvania

Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre Sensory Friendly Beauty and the Beast

Experience this timeless tale about the transformative power of love, played out against the backdrop of an enchanted forest full of magical creatures.

PBT’s sensory-friendly performances are relaxed and open to all. It is a judgment-free zone where theater staff and patrons accept (and expect) extra sound or movement in the audience and where they celebrate the many ways audience members can experience a live stage performance.
Accommodations include lower sound levels, elimination of some special effects and house lighting at about 20%. Quiet areas and activities are in the lobby before and during the show, and additional staff on hand to help create a safe and welcoming theater experience.

More information on The Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre website.

Image of a person wearing a volunteer shirt holding out a globe toward the camera

Autism, Hidden Disabilities and Volunteering

Running an organization that accommodates volunteers with autism or hidden disabilities requires understanding, empathy, and flexibility. Here are some tips to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all volunteers:

Educate all staff and volunteers: Provide training to all staff and volunteers about autism and hidden disabilities. This can help create awareness and promote understanding among team members.
Flexible scheduling: Be open to flexible scheduling to accommodate volunteers’ needs. Some volunteers may thrive with consistent schedules, while others may prefer varied hours to avoid sensory overload.
Designated quiet spaces: Create designated quiet spaces where volunteers can take a break if they feel overwhelmed or need some time to recharge.
Clear communication: Use clear and concise communication, both in person and in written instructions. Avoid figurative language or ambiguous directions, as some people with autism may struggle with interpreting them.
Visual aids: Use visual aids, such as charts, diagrams, or picture schedules, to help volunteers understand tasks and processes. Visual cues can be beneficial for those who have difficulty processing verbal information.
Buddy system: Implement a buddy system pairing volunteers with autism or hidden disabilities with experienced and understanding volunteers. This can provide additional support and make the volunteering experience more enjoyable.
Task preferences: Allow volunteers to express their preferences for specific tasks they feel comfortable doing. Tailoring assignments to individual strengths can increase motivation and confidence.
Sensory considerations: Be mindful of the sensory environment. For example, dimming bright lights, minimizing loud noises, or providing noise-cancelling headphones can create a more comfortable atmosphere.
Regular breaks: Schedule regular breaks for all volunteers, ensuring they have time to rest and recharge as needed.
Positive reinforcement: Recognize and celebrate the efforts and contributions of all volunteers. Positive reinforcement can go a long way in boosting self-esteem and encouraging continued participation.
Accommodate communication preferences: Some people with hidden disabilities may have specific communication preferences (e.g., email, text messages, or written notes). Be willing to accommodate these preferences to facilitate effective communication.
Encourage feedback: Create a culture that encourages open feedback from volunteers about their experiences and any additional support they may need.
Avoid sensory overload: Limit the number of simultaneous tasks or activities that volunteers are expected to handle. Overloading the senses can be challenging for individuals with autism or hidden disabilities.
Patience and empathy: Above all, approach each volunteer with patience and empathy. Recognize that everyone has unique needs and challenges, and a supportive and understanding attitude can make a significant difference.

By implementing these tips, you can foster an inclusive and adjustable environment where all volunteers can contribute their skills and feel valued in an organization’s mission.

Renaissance style painting of a cat putting something in a jewelry box. The cat is wearing a peach toga sitting sideways and peering into the golden box.

The Most Important Thing

This is really important is usually that last passing thought I remember about the very important thing I was holding before my memory goes stark white. The phenomenon of blanking out after placing an important item (amusement park tickets in the upcoming scenario) isn’t uncommon. I mean, they even make memes about it.

painting of a cat putting something in a jewelry box with text Me: "I'm just going to tuck this away so I don't lose it." Narrator: "she would never see it again."

Me: I’ll just tuck this away so I don’t lose it.
Narrator: She would never find it again.

So when Autism Connection received an email from a parent in the aftermath of absentmindedness, we completely understood.

Parent:

“We were an hour into our drive to Idlewild when I realized I left the tickets at home. Major mom fail. Any chance there are etickets on file?”

Autism Connection:

“Hi ____________,

They’re print only but show them the receipt in this email and let them know what happened. I can relate to this 100 percent because it’s something I’ve done countless times. I’ll give Idlewild a call in the meantime. Also, they can call me if you run into any issues trying to get in.

I’ll also try to find the numbers on your tickets, too.”

***

We called Idlewild and got a disappointing response at first—They need barcodes, not ticket numbers or receipts. The barcode is the ticket in. Very important. The Idlewild employee was patient in listening to me plead our case, and we tossed solutions at the problem, including having the family email the barcodes after they return home. We were left with “I’m not sure what we can do. I’ll talk to the front office, but we’re really busy.”

We left Autism Connection’s contact information in hopes for a quick call back. In the meantime, we reached out to the family rapidly approaching Idlewild.

Autism Connection:

“Idlewild said they need the barcodes, so they don’t think they can do anything on their end. I’m waiting for her to call me back. Sorry about the delay. She said the park is very busy right now. Hoping to hear back asap.

If you have them scanned on your phone, they can get the barcodes. If not, we’re hoping they make an exception today.”

***

We didn’t get a call back from Idlewild, but we did get an email.

Parent:

“Thank you!

So many different things to stress about…headphones, snacks, water…that it’s easy for things slip my mind. (Many things) added to my distractions…

…They did let us in, and the exit pass to help with the lines was also a lifesaver.

We had a great day and a successful family outing minus my mom fail.

Thank you for the discounted tickets and making a call. Certainly, give them a shout out for being so flexible and understanding.”

So colossal Thank You, Idlewild!

***

Happy ending, yes, but one aspect of the situation, a phrase, continues to gnaw on my thoughts.

“We had a great day and a successful family outing minus my mom fail.”

To the Parent from Autism Connection:

You didn’t fail. You had a human moment; a completely understandable human moment, and you had the presence of mind to reach out to people who truly want to help.

That is the most important thing.