Sensory Inclusive
For Visitors with Sensory Sensitivities or Challenges with Sensory Regulation
Port Discovery is a certified Sensory Inclusive facility, registered with KultureCity, a nationally recognized organization that provides sensory inclusion training and tools to venues and large-scale events. Our staff is trained on how to recognize guests with sensory needs and how to help individuals experiencing sensory overload. Ask a staff member to direct you to our Sensory Cart, where you can build your own Sensory Bag. You can tend to your sensory needs with the following supplies: noise canceling headphones, communication cards, thera-brushes, fidgets, sunglasses, weighted blankets, dry erase boards and markers. Please return your sensory supplies to the used items bin when your visit is complete. Temperature, lighting and noise levels fluctuate throughout the Museum. Some spaces are quieter than others, and some can be overly stimulating. When planning your visit, please consider the following information and resources:
Sensory Support
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Sensory Bags
Sensory bags are build your own at Port Discovery! By the Guest Services station, you can find a Build Your Own Sensory Kit cart that contains the following supplies:
- Noise canceling headphones
- Communication cards
- Thera-brushes
- Fidgets
- Sunglasses
- Weighted blankets
- Dry erase boards and markers
Feel free to grab one of the provided bags and fill it with any supplies you may need for your visit. Please be sure to return your sensory supplies to the used items bin when your visit is complete.
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Temperature, smells, lighting and noise levels
Temperature, lighting and noise levels fluctuate throughout the Museum. Some spaces are quieter than others, and some can be overly stimulating. Our map, which you can grab upon entry, shows the areas that may be louder, smellier, brighter or otherwise helpful or challenging for various sensory needs.
You can also view an online version of this information here.
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Port Discovery's Scripted Stories
Scripted stories are intended to familiarize children with our museum environment, assist children in social situations, and minimize possible problem behaviors that might occur. Scripted stories can be utilized by parents, caregivers, and educators. Please use these scripted stories (more to come!) as a tool to help prepare a child for a visit to Port Discovery.
You can download the Scripted Stories here.
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KultureCity App
Prior to visiting the Museum, you are encouraged to download the free KultureCity App to view what sensory features are available and where to access them.
KultureCity App https://www.kulturecity.org/sensory-inclusive-app/
iPhone http://bit.ly/KCiphone
Android http://bit.ly/KCandroid
Port Discovery's Sensory Cart
FAQs
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Do you offer any special sensory-friendly programs, events or resources?
The Museum strives to be an inclusive and accessible space that celebrates neurodiversity and welcomes people of all needs and abilities. We are a certified Sensory Inclusive facility, registered with KultureCity, and offer a variety of resources including Sensory Bags, Sensory Stories, and more. We also offer sensory-friendly and access & inclusion programs and events.
Information on upcoming Sensory Friendly or Access & Inclusion programs and events is available here.
Information on mobility & accessibly at the Museum is available here.
Information on Sensory Inclusivity and helpful resources available at the Museum is available here.
- Does the Museum have any Social Stories to help us prepare for our visit?
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Is the museum accessible for families with disabilities and/or sensory sensitivities?
Yes. Port Discovery is committed to welcoming all guests to experience our Museum, interactive exhibits, and learning through play. We do our best to give all visitors full access to our outstanding experiences and can provide individualized assistance during your visit. Our staff is trained to support and accommodate the needs of every visitor, so don’t hesitate to ask.
Information on Mobility & Accessibility at the Museum is available here.
Information on Sensory Inclusivity and resources is available here.
Information on Access, Inclusion & Sensory-Friendly Programs, and Events is available here.
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Are service animals allowed at Port Discovery?
Yes, Service Animals are welcome at Port Discovery Children’s Museum.
Port Discovery Children’s Museum student visits, exhibits, and programs are supported in part by the following partners.
