Summer traveling and events are in full swing for families and friends. Because of this, resorts, restaurants and special events have seen an influx of crowds over the last couple of months. Every location can still set itself apart by offering the best service possible for all patrons as summer winds down. While many offer various menus to account for dietary restrictions or accommodations for weather situations, there is a unique group of individuals that tend to be left off the checklist.

No matter who comes to your establishment, you should seek to serve them appropriately and those with autism are no different. Simply put, the goal is to make your environment great by being inclusive and accommodating to all. Let's discuss how you can create an autism-friendly event or space for those that have unique sensory, communication and social needs.

Creating an autism-friendly business

According to LivingAutism, the key to establishing great environments for those living with autism is to be aware that those with autism 'experience life very differently than others.' In addition, they believe that an autism-friendly environment 'should reduce the negative effects and enhance the positivity of sensory differences.'

Sensory considerations

Did you know that setting color themes in spaces can help prevent overstimulation? For example, colors like red and yellow are very stimulating. While colors like light blue help with concentration and green can help key restful habits. Understanding how sensory sensitivity can affect people with autism is vital.

  • Reduce Overstimulation: Limit loud noises, bright lights and strong smells. Use dimmable lighting and provide noise-canceling headphones.
  • Quiet Zones: Designate quiet areas, or sensory-friendly spaces, where individuals can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. These spaces should be comfortable and free from sensory triggers.
  • Sensory-Friendly Activities: Include activities that cater to various sensory needs, such as tactile play (sand, water, clay), visual aids (calming visuals, low-stimulation videos) and safe, physical activities. When possible, you could even implement sensory sensitive Sundays to create a dedicated day for sensory-friendly activities.

Clear communication

People with autism may have difficulties with social skills and interpreting nonverbal cues, idioms and implied meanings. Clear and direct communication minimizes the risk of anxiety, misinterpretation and misunderstanding. Use clear, straightforward language in written and verbal communication.

  • Visual Supports: Use visual schedules, signs and symbols to help navigate the event or space. Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) cards can be helpful.
  • Preparation Materials: Provide detailed information about what to expect beforehand, including pictures and descriptions of the environment, activities and potential sensory experiences.

Structured environment

Regardless of how long you have an event going, it is great to have a dialogue of what the expectations of the day or event is. Those with autism have a hard time adjusting to abrupt change for them to prepare.

  • Predictability: Ensure the event or space has a predictable structure. Clearly outline the schedule and any changes that might occur.
  • Routine and Consistency: Maintain consistent routines and procedures. Inform attendees in advance of any deviations from the norm.

Inclusive activities

Too much space is not a good thing, but not enough space is a bad thing. Allow space to rock, bend and swing as this is a way of grounding. Grounding for those with autism is to manage their sensory input, emotions and behavior by staying connected to the present moment and their immediate environment. Focus on not to over cluttering and crowding areas. Too much of the two can cause overstimulation.

  • Variety of Choices: Offer a range of activities that cater to different interests and abilities. Include options for solo and group participation.
  • Accommodate Different Needs: Ensure activities can be adapted to suit various levels of sensory input, motor skills and cognitive abilities.
  • Mobility Considerations: Ensure spaces are accessible for individuals with mobility challenges. This includes ramps, wide aisles and accessible restrooms.
  • Comfortable Seating: Provide seating options that allow for movement and comfort, such as bean bags or rocking chairs.

Great examples of autism-friendly adjustments

  • Museums and Libraries: Offer sensory-friendly hours with adjusted lighting and reduced noise levels.
  • Theaters and Cinemas: Provide sensory-friendly screenings with lower volume and dimmed lights, and allow for movement and noise within the audience.
  • Playgrounds: Design playgrounds with sensory-friendly equipment, such as swings, tactile panels and quiet zones.

Develop autism-friendly initiative for your business

Autism manifests in a wide variety of ways, and individuals with autism can have a broad range of abilities, challenges and characteristics. Allow a space for chances of improvement by allowing feedback from your participants and always allowing room for adjustments. Give the proper training for your staff or helpers like Autism Awareness Training and Emergency Preparedness. Set your events and establishment apart by equipping your staff with tools to understand autism and how to best handle stressful situations with calming techniques.

An infographic titled 'Essential Information to Know When Creating an Autism-Friendly Environment' lists 17 tips for making spaces more accommodating for people on the autism spectrum.
Source: Living Autism