What are Sensory Friendly Films?

Alternative Entertainment for Children With Sensory Needs

Oct 31, 2009

Some theaters have established a new way of showing movies. Every aspect of the experience has been planned to meet the needs of the autistic child.

It seems that some theaters still remember that the customer is always right. They have planned movies that are family-friendly, especially if one of the family members is autistic. The AMC Theaters across the country may be the first to address the needs of this growing population.

Softened Sensory Input

Children on the autism spectrum have a heightened, negative reaction to many forms of sensory input. Loud sounds, for example, like the ones in movie theaters, are upsetting. Recently, some theaters began altering the viewing environment to make the moving going experience more enjoyable for viewers on the autism spectrum.

The sound is turned down during sensory friendly films. Likewise, the lights are left on. Everything about the viewing environment is arranged to help the child on the autism spectrum feel comfortable. If the child is comfortable, the entire family will be comfortable as well.

Move to the Movies

There is another difference between tradition films and the sensory-friendly ones. Typically, moviegoers are expected to remain seated and quiet. They are expected to be considerate of their neighbors. Fitting that mold can be difficult for the child on the autism spectrum. Often, children who are autistic have extra movement (flapping, spinning, dancing) when they are happy, sad, excited, or stressed.

In these sensory friendly movies, it is okay to move as needed or desired. The expectation is not to remain seated and quiet. Autistic moviegoers are free to get up and move. Maybe the movement is to the music or excitement of the movie. Maybe it is a reaction to the environment. Either way, it is okay. No one will ask the dancer to sit down.

Diet-Friendly Foods

Usually, theaters have the classic concession stand items: candy, popcorn, and soda. Concession stand snacks do not always match the gluten-free and casein-free diets of many children on the autism spectrum. What fun is going to the movies without something special to have for a snack? During sensory-friendly films, movie goers are allowed (and even encouraged) to brings snacks and drinks that they can enjoy.

The sensory input of the movie theater and the expectations of sensory-friendly movies are in line with the needs of children with autism. Everything about the experience from lights and sounds to snacks are a perfect match for a child on the autism spectrum. Listings of places and times that the AMC theaters are offering these special showing can be found with a simple Internet search.

The copyright of the article What are Sensory Friendly Films? in Special Needs Parenting is owned by Lynn Moore. Permission to republish What are Sensory Friendly Films? in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.