Going to the cinema can be a challenging experience for families when the child or young person has a diagnosis of autism.
Many of the things that are seemingly part and parcel of going to the cinema – for example, lights out and loud noises – don’t suit everyone, and this can be especially true of people with autism. All of these things together can have an overwhelming effect on the child or young person and can overload their senses.
Fortunately, more and more leisure suppliers are recognising this and offering sessions with young people and adults on the autistic spectrum in mind.
All of the following screenings have made adjustments to make them more ASD-friendly, including:
● a relaxed environment where people understand the needs of children and families with autism
● lights left on low
● sound turned down
● no trailers or advertisements (unless they are embedded in the film)
● staff trained in autism awareness
● disabled access
● chill out zone, where available
● freedom to move around and sit where you like
● bring your own food and drink
● free entry for carers with valid CEA Card.
Dimensions UK work with ODEON, Cineworld, Vue and Showcase cinemas to screen films in a sensory friendly environment for people of all ages to enjoy the cinema. They compile a list every month of the relaxed cinema screenings in your area. Here are July’s films that are available in the Leicester and Leicestershire area.
Read more at: http://www.leicestermercury.co.uk/whats-on/film/11-autism-friendly-cinema-screenings-157748
