About one in 70 people are thought to be on the autism spectrum, of those up to 96 per cent of people experience sensory processing difficulties. This might include hyper-sensitivity to smells, tastes, textures, noise or light. | Ellie Mitchell
Kids handle exhibits and chatter excitedly at the top of their voices in the Australian Museum, where it would normally be peaceful this early in the morning.
“We had children come through the door who spotted the printed copy of the visual story that they had been sent. This one beautiful boy was so excited, like ‘mummy, mummy, it’s my story, we’re here, we’re here’,” she said. Early Birds will return in 2022. For two hours before it opens to the general public each day, the museum will be accessible to those with sensory issues. The sound and lighting will be adjusted to their needs, trained support staff will be on hand, and there will be textured elements for attendees to touch and feel.Australian Museum sustainability and access co-ordinator Zehra Ahmed said the program was aimed at removing barriers and playing to the strengths of visitors.
Some museums and galleries provide step-by-step guides with visuals, often called “social stories” and maps marking the sensory intensity of different areas to give visitors insight into what they will encounter when they enter.
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