For some, the bright lights and music at the Queen City Exhibition (QCX) may be a difficult environment to be in, so organizers provided a more inclusive option on day 2 of the event. From 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.,“Kidway Morning” was offered, a sensory-friendly gathering for youth and young adults who experience mobility and cognitive challenges in their daily life. “There’s definitely a full spectrum of accessibility needs and sensory needs, and we want to make sure that we’re providing an opportunity for everyone to come out and try something,” said Cat Betker, director of events and guest experience. For the two hours, the usual lights and music were turned off, and smaller street style performances were offered. According to organizers, the Kidway Morning had about 100 children signed up for this year. “It’s a very small focus group,” Betker said. “You don’t have the major crowds; there’s not as many people. It’s not as sensory overstimulating in terms of the size of the crowds.” The Autism Resource Centre (ARC) says it’s really encouraging to get to see the forward motion in the community. “Sensory isn’t just for neurodivergent or autistic folks, it’s something that everyone has. We all have our own preferences and things that we like or dislike,” said Leo Saccary, program manager of life skills and communications. “Seeing things like this being incorporated more into everyday classrooms is becoming more common because we’re recognizing that for each person to function and to live to the fullest, we might have to put smaller accommodations in place to help them get there.” Angela Ricci, the executive director at ARC, said several places have been reaching out for guidelines. “We’re also getting a lot of calls from schools, and from various organizations saying, ‘Hey, we’re thinking about incorporating a sensory space, can you help us?” she said. The sensory spaces will continue at the QCX, with the “Joshua Tree Quiet Zone” open from 12 p.m. until 6 p.m. every day, providing an opportunity for those who need to recharge. According to the QCX website, the area will provide a “low-stimulus environment for neurodivergent individuals, children, families and guests who may feel overwhelmed by the sights, sounds and activity of the fair.” “Being able to take a space and just take a break and let your senses calm down, and then being able to continue on and enjoy the rest of the day, where otherwise, you might have been so overwhelmed that you had to go home.” Betker said. “This helps you extend your trip, extend the adventure for the day, and keep getting to have fun.”
