Creating A Quiet Zone: A Sensory-Friendly Zone at Community Events
This summer Helping Hand is taking on a new initiative in the community, the HH Quiet Zone. Community events can be very overwhelming with the bright lights, loud sounds, and strong smells. The Quiet Zone is dedicated to individuals who need less stimulation but still want to enjoy all the community activities and events.
Our goal with the Quiet Zone is to increase accessibility for families who want to attend community events but haven’t been able to in the past. Many families weigh their options when going to an event; either they have to leave early because it is too overwhelming, or they choose not to go at all. Now families will have the opportunity to take a quick break with a pair of headphones or play sensory games and then jump right back into the event.
Our Quiet Zone is a fantastic example of Universal Design, creating things that are accessible to everyone. Universal design not only benefits the people it was designed for but also benefits other groups. For example, curb cuts were created for wheelchair users to access the sidewalks, but they also benefit parents with strollers and delivery drivers. Automatic doors provide access to rooms and buildings for people who can’t physically turn a doorknob, but they also help you get insider when your hands are full of groceries. Designs that started off benefiting people with disabilities turn out to benefit everyone.
A Quiet Zone is helpful for people who have sensory problems and need a break from stimulation. This zone doesn’t just benefit people with disabilities; it benefits the entire community.
Helping Hand is sponsoring a Quiet Zone at multiple events throughout the community including the La Grange Pet Parade, the Downers Grove Summer Concert (July 14th), and Countryside Summer Concerts (June 18th, June 25th, July 9th, July 16th, July 23rd, July 30th, August 6th, and August 13th).
Please find us at community events if you need a little time away from all the action.