Summer is here and with the heat upon us, it is more practical to find activities to do inside. Going to the theater is very popular during the summer when blockbuster movies hit the big screen. Children who have autism and sensory processing disorders do not get to have the ultimate movie experience like otherchildren because they may dislike loud noises and dark spaces, just to name a few. Many of these children have never been to the movie theater because it would be a sensory overload. Thechild would not be able to enjoy the film as he or she would be extremely bothered by the loud noises, flashing bright lights, etc. However, there are theatres across the valley including AMC and Harkins that have sensory friendly films. AMC has partnered with the Autism Society to feature Sensory Friendly Films. These films have reduced sound volume, brightened lights, and the opportunity to get up, walk around, dance, sing, or even shout. This makes the movie experience more conducive for a child with sensory processing disorders. Families can post about their fun movie experience using #AMCSensoryFriendly.

Melissa Mortensen-Haws, SLP