MIAMI (September 12, 2018) – One in 20 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with a sensory processing disorder, according to the Star Institute for Sensory Processing Disorder, so the need for spaces that reduce sensory overload is growing. HistoryMiami Museum is working toward answering that call by providing families tools and resources to help facilitate a Museum visit for all.
With a commitment to providing inclusive experiences for all of its visitors, HistoryMiami is dedicated to ensuring all visitors are given the opportunity to engage and interact with the Museum. The Museum currently offers noise-reducing headphones for ages 6 months to adults, flexible seating, wheelchair loans, and materials in alternate formats and languages, said Jorge Zamanillo the Museum’s Director.
Starting this week, the Museum is adding another tool to its offerings: a sensory backpack, packed with gear designed to help calm and stimulate a child’s sensory system. The bags include various tools including, emotion cards, a weighted wrap, a wordless children’s book, a fidget, and a sound map that identifies areas in the exhibitions that may be noisier than others.
“HistoryMiami Museum is the city’s museum. We want everyone to feel welcome. In order to foster an accessible environment, we are doing what we can to ensure this is a place for everyone in Miami,” Zamanillo said. “A sensory backpack can be a way to provide sensory input in a discreet and engaging way, and we look forward to continue developing the most inclusive atmosphere we can.”
HistoryMiami also offers a sensory-friendly Family Fun Day each year that is free to the public. The next date is May 11, 2019
Prior to visiting to HistoryMiami, visitors can also prepare for the visit by reading the Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs Going to the Museum brochure in English, Spanish, and Creole found the Museums’ accessibility website page http://www.historymiami.org/policyaccessibility/.
HistoryMiami Museum is supported by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners. Accredited by the American Alliance of Museum, HistoryMiami is also sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.
Museum Hours & Fees: Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10:00am – 5:00pm; Sunday, 12:00pm – 5:00pm; Monday, closed.
Regular museum admission: $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and students with ID, $5 for children 6-12, and free for museum members and children under 6.
About HistoryMiami Museum:
HistoryMiami Museum, a Smithsonian Affiliate, is the premier cultural institution committed to gathering, organizing, preserving and celebrating Miami’s history as the unique crossroads of the Americas. We accomplish this through education, collections, research, exhibitions, publications and City Tours. Located in the heart of downtown Miami, HistoryMiami Museum is a 70,000 square foot facility and home to more than one million historical images and 30,000 three-dimensional artifacts, including a 1920’s trolley car, artifacts from Pan American World Airways, and rafts that brought refugees to Miami. For more information, call 305-375-1492 or visit historymiami.org. HistoryMiami Museum is located at 101 W Flagler St, Miami, FL 33130.