On any typical Sunday afternoon, you can find families and kids enjoying lots of fun, interactive activities from playing in the park; to enjoying a kid friendly indoor playground or visiting the global brand that kids love – Chuck E Cheese.
Unfortunately for some of the kids with autism who have sensory issues, the flashing lights, loud noises and crowds can either cause a lot of unnecessary anxiety, or can be activities that parents avoid all together. ..Until now!
The Chuck E Cheese brand has worked with CARD (Center for Autism and Related Disorders) to create a pilot program to encourage parents who have children on the autism spectrum to bring them to Chuck E Cheese. They have made it possible for a child with autism to go out to a kid friendly establishment and enjoy a fun Sunday afternoon of play.
On Sensory Sensitive Sundays the staff at participating Chuck E Cheese locations around the country make sure the crowds are small, the sounds and lights are low, and on Sundays at select locations, Chuck E Cheese (the mouse) gets the day off. This allows for children with autism to have a good time.
It’s also great for parents of children on the spectrum. Parents don’t have to worry about other parents judging the behaviors of their children, they can allow their kids more freedom to play independently, and they can allow themselves to feel…almost…relaxed, which allows them to enjoy their time with their children.
For a fun Sunday afternoon of play check out this complete list of participating locations https://consumermediallc.files.wordpress.com/2017/01/chuck-e-cheese-sensory-sensitive-sundays-stores-v2.pdf