Sensory-friendly arcade day hosted by Autism Involves Me and Hopebridge
ROGERS, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Dave and Busters in Rogers was the sight of a sensory-friendly arcade day on April 14.
The event was put on by Autism Involves Me and Hopebridge, two organizations dedicated to improving the quality of life for children with autism.
The arcade opened up for the event before its normal operating hours to allow for less crowds, higher lighting and quieter volumes on machines and music.
Vanessa Boomer is the president of Autism Involves Me and says in the United States, there’s a lack of sensory-friendly options for families.
“A lot of our families are nervous about going out in case their child does have a little bit of a breakdown or if the noises are too loud. So we have these opportunities so that we know every family here is accepting and understands that ‘Hey, it’s ok if your child needs to leave the room or if your child has a special need that you need to attend to,'” Boomer said.
She encourages families to join the Autism Involves Me Facebook page, where there will be a listing of upcoming sensory-inclusive events.
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