Imagine a world where flickering lights, loud noises, and strong smells don't cause discomfort. That's the essence of a sensory-friendly environment! Importantly, it caters to all eight senses - sight, hearing, taste, touch, smell, movement, balance, and proprioception (internal body awareness).
There's no "one-size-fits-all" approach, as sensory preferences vary. However, by considering these different senses, we can create spaces that are inclusive and welcoming for everyone.
The goal of a Sensory Experience Statement is to let people know what to expect about the sensory experience at an event or at different times in a schedule.
It can be used to describe both sensory-friendly features as well as sensory-rich features.
It tells visitors what to expect through their senses of:
1. Sight
2. Hearing
3. Taste
4. Touch
5. Smell
6. Movement
7. Balance
8. Interoception
It can be used to describe both sensory-friendly features as well as sensory-rich features.
Use this guide to help you draft Sensory Experience Statements for each of the eight senses!
Your visual world comes alive through sight, with vibrant colors, intricate details, and vast landscapes. However, some people find bright lights, flickering displays, or crowded spaces overwhelming.
Your Sensory Experience Statement for the sense of sight should address the following questions:
What will people experience through their sense of vision? Will there be bright or flashing lights? Is there natural light? Will there be bright sunlight? Alternatively, is there low light? Darkness? Or a significant contract in light? Is there a lot of visual "clutter?" Are there bright and dark zones?
"Visitors will experience a visually stimulating environment with bright, colorful decorations and dynamic digital displays. There will be natural light flooding the space during the day, with some areas featuring low, ambient lighting in the evening. Flashing lights will be used periodically for special effects, and these will be indicated on the event map. Quiet zones with minimal visual clutter are also available for those who prefer a calmer visual environment."
Immerse yourself in the symphony of sounds with your sense of hearing - conversations, music, and nature's hum. However, loud or sudden noises and crowded environments can be bothersome for some people.
Your Sensory Experience Statement for the sense of hearing should address the following questions:
What will people experience through their sense of hearing? Will there be loud or sudden noises? Music? Background music? Announcements? Is general noise expected because of the amount of people? Will there be something that makes noise, like equipment on site? Are there noisy or quiet zones?
"Attendees can expect a lively auditory atmosphere with background music playing throughout the venue. Announcements will be made periodically via loudspeakers, and there will be live music performances in designated areas. To accommodate different preferences, we have quiet zones where noise levels are kept to a minimum. General noise levels may be higher during peak times due to the number of people present."
Taste lets us savor the world, from chocolate's sweetness to lemon's tang. Yet, some may dislike textures or flavors, such as spicy foods.
Your Sensory Experience Statement for the sense of taste should address the following questions:
What will people experience through their sense of taste? Is there food and beverages onsite? What are the specific options for eating and drinking onsite? Can people bring their own food and beverages?
"Our event offers a variety of food and beverage options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices. Local food trucks will provide diverse culinary experiences, and there are water stations available throughout the venue. Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks if they prefer."
Feel a hug from a loved one, a gentle breeze, or the scratchy texture of a wool sweater - touch is powerful. Yet, some may dislike hugs or find clothing tags irritating.
Your Sensory Experience Statement for the sense of touch should address the following questions:
What will people experience through their sense of touch? Is there something interactive to touch? Will it be crowded? You can include temperature here, too. Will it be hot? Cold?
Is it heated or air-conditioned?
Is there shade?
"Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with various interactive exhibits that invite touch. The venue is temperature-controlled to ensure comfort, with shaded areas available outdoors. Seating is provided in multiple locations to allow for rest breaks, and the space is designed to avoid overcrowding."
Scents can trigger vivid memories - like freshly baked cookies or the crisp scent of pine needles. But strong perfumes or artificial scents, even certain food smells, can be bothersome, causing headaches for some.
Your Sensory Experience Statement for the sense of smell should address the following questions:
What will people experience through their sense of smell? Are scents or smells present? Even, pleasant ones?
Is there a no-scent policy?
"Guests will enjoy a pleasant scent-related experience with subtle floral scents dispersed in the main hall. Food vendors may produce enticing aromas, particularly near the dining area. We maintain a no-scent policy in designated areas to accommodate individuals with sensitivities, clearly marked on the event map."
Proprioception guides your movements precisely, even with closed eyes, like touching your nose without looking. Some enjoy movement, like trampolining, while others prefer stillness.
Your Sensory Experience Statement for the sense of movement should address the following questions:
What will people experience through their sense of movement? What is the size of the space? How do people get around, i.e., do they walk or roll? Is there additional transportation? Are there places to sit and rest? Are there any postures or positions that people must adopt: crouch, stand, sit, kneel, stoop, etc.? What is the path of travel like? What is the surface to walk or roll on?
"The event space is expansive, allowing attendees to move around freely. Wide pathways are provided for ease of movement, and shuttle services are available for transportation between distant points. There are plenty of seating areas for rest and relaxation. Paths are clearly marked, and surfaces are smooth and accessible for both walking and rolling."
Your vestibular sense keeps you steady, whether you're sitting, walking, or dancing, preventing falls. Motion sickness or fear of heights can indicate differences in vestibular processing.
Your Sensory Experience Statement for the sense of balance should address the following questions:
What will people experience through their sense of balance?
Are there different levels? How do people move between levels? Are there stairs, ramps, escalators, or elevators? How high is the location? Is there anything to climb?
"Visitors will navigate through multiple levels using stairs, ramps, and elevators. All changes in elevation are clearly marked, and handrails are provided where necessary. There are no activities requiring climbing, and the event space is designed to be easily navigable for individuals with balance concerns."
This newly recognized sense serves as your internal body compass, signaling hunger, thirst, and bathroom needs. Some struggle to interpret these signals, affecting both body and emotions.
Your Sensory Experience Statement for the sense of interoception should address the following questions:
Describe the toilets available and onsite. Are they wheelchair accessible? Are there toilets for different genders? Family-friendly toilets? Change tables for infants or adults?
Is there a high energy experience or time? Is there a relaxed or low energy experience or time? Is there a time that is expected to be busier or quieter?
"Multiple restroom facilities are available, including accessible restrooms and family-friendly options with changing tables. There are dedicated quiet times throughout the event schedule for low-energy experiences, as well as high-energy activities at specific times. Peak and off-peak hours are noted in the event guide to help guests plan their visit."
Accessibility involves making information, activities, and environments usable for as many people as possible. Besides addressing the eight senses, it's important to include other accessibility considerations to give a complete picture of what people can expect. This context helps individuals plan accordingly.
Your Sensory Experience Statement for Accessibility should address the following questions:
Are there any additional accessibility features or barriers for people? Think about people who use wheelchairs, walkers, canes or need assistance to mobilize.
Is visual material also in Braille? Is there an FM system or hearing loop technology? Will there be sign-language interpretation? Subtitles, closed captions, or live captions? Audio description?
"The venue is fully accessible, with wide entryways and ramps for easy navigation. Visual materials are also available in Braille, and an FM system is provided for those with hearing impairments. Sign-language interpretation is available for all main stage events, and closed captions are displayed on screens. Audio descriptions are offered for visually impaired guests upon request."
Including comprehensive information in your Sensory Experience Statements is crucial for creating an inclusive and welcoming environment. Detailed descriptions help attendees prepare for and navigate the sensory aspects of an event, ensuring a positive experience. This empowers individuals with sensory sensitivities or preferences to make informed decisions and feel comfortable.
Your Sensory Experience Statements can also address the following questions:
Will there be sensory-friendly hours or a sensory-friendly space?
There are many different words used, e.g., quiet room, calming zone, etc. Pick the ones that best describe what you are offering and provide details.
Will you have noise-cancelling earmuffs to loan, rent or sell?
"We offer sensory-friendly hours during which noise levels and lighting are reduced to create a calming environment. Noise-cancelling earmuffs are available for loan at the information desk. There are quiet rooms labeled as 'calming zones' equipped with comfortable seating and dim lighting for those needing a break from the sensory-rich environment."
Sight Statement
Hearing Statement
Taste Statement Smell Statement
Touch Statement Movement Statement Proprioception Statement
Balance Statement Accessibility Statement
List of Additional Sensory Considerations
Creating Sensory Experience Statements ensures your event is inclusive and welcoming. Address each sense— sight, hearing, taste, touch, smell, movement, balance, and interoception—to help attendees feel prepared and comfortable.
Be clear and specific, using icons and maps for visual aid. Provide information in various formats and languages to cater to all needs. Share the statements widely on your website, social media, and at the event. Make sure staff and volunteers are informed about the sensory features and accommodations.
Encourage feedback to improve your sensory-friendly initiatives. By prioritizing sensory inclusivity, you enhance the experience for all attendees and build a reputation as a considerate organization.
This morning's presentations will feature...
Bright, overhead lighting with high contrast slides, no flashing lights. Amplified audio, minimal background noise, quiet zones available outside.
Refreshments provided inside. Comfortable seating, moderate temperature, layered clothing recommended. Scent-free room, avoid strong perfumes or colognes. Spacious room, wide aisles, freedom to move as needed. Single-level room, accessible ramps for raised platforms. Nearby restrooms, including accessible and gender-neutral options.
If you have any questions or concerns, please speak to a staff member wearing a red vest.
Sensory Experience Statement for Our Concert Here's what to expect:
Bright stage lights, flashing effects, and visual displays. Loud music; earplugs recommended. Food and drinks available on-site; outside snacks allowed. Crowded space with temperature control; comfortable attire suggested. Various food aromas; designated scent-free zones. Venue requires walking and standing; seating areas provided. Multiple levels with accessible stairs and ramps. Accessible and gender-neutral restrooms available. Sign language interpreters, captions, and wheelchair access. Quiet room and noise-cancelling headphones available.
For a more detailed sensory map, visit our Accessibility Page.
Thank you for downloading the Sensory Friendly Event Guide.
I hope this resource helps you create a warm welcome for visitors to enjoy your location.
It's great to offer sensory-rich experiences too! Letting people know what to expect, and when and where to expect it, helps everyone plan, prepare, and enjoy.
I founded Sensory Friendly Solutions to help make the world more sensory-friendly. Our resources will help you understand sensory challenges and discover effective solutions.
Ready to take the next step? Join our Training Membership and get access to all the courses you need to offer a more sensory-friendly, accessible and inclusive experience.
With thanks, Christel Seeberger Founder & CEO
sensoryfriendly.net