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Symbol developed by M-D County Cultural Affairs Department’s “All Kids Included” inclusive-arts initiative
The Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs’ “All Kids Included” initiative has developed a new Sensory-Inclusive Access Symbol that allows the public to easily identify if a show or program has been designed and specially adapted for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
Events that use the symbol implement a variety of interventions such as environmental modifications to sound and lighting levels and provide support during and prior to the event to prepare attendees for the experience.
“The new Sensory-Inclusive Access Symbol clearly communicates the cultural community’s commitment to inclusive values and serves as a welcome sign for many children and families,” said Michael Spring, Director of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs.
“Increased diversity and inclusion in our everyday lives benefits us all, and accessible programs ensure that individuals of all abilities have the opportunities to be engaged and participate fully in everything the arts have to offer.”
The new Sensory-Inclusive Access Symbol will appear prominently beside nationally recognized accessibility icons, such as those for wheelchair access or American sign language interpretation. It evolved as part of Department’s All Kids Included growing Sensory-Friendly programs to encourage diverse and inclusive experiences in the arts by addressing the needs of individuals with sensory sensitivities including sensory processing disorder (SPD), sensory processing sensitivity (SPS), and environmental sensitivity (ES), which may consist of sensitivity to light, sound, smells, or textures.
Individuals with sensory sensitivities may sometimes feel anxious or overwhelmed in certain highly stimulating or unfamiliar environments. Sensory inclusive events provide support and accommodations, including pre-visit guides such as “Going to the Show” and “Going to the Museum,” to help prepare attendees. In addition to modifications to lighting and sound, attendees have access to noise-reducing headsets and a “quiet room.” Venues may also provide an area with remote viewing of the main stage performance for those wishing to take a break from the live performance. At all events, knowledgeable staff is on hand to assist.
Working with community partners throughout the year, the All Kids Included programs provide a wide range of services and accommodations and utilize a range of access technology and services to help make the arts accessible to every child and family. Programs include sensory inclusive performances, as well as cultural programs presented with ASL interpretation, audio description, open captions, touch tours, assistive listening, large print, and Braille. For more information about the Sensory Inclusive Access Symbol please visit the website.
All Kids Included – Accessible Arts Experiences for Kids is an initiative of the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs which promotes inclusive arts and cultural programs in school settings and throughout the community enabling kids of all abilities and their families to participate fully in the arts. It continually raises the bar with excellence in programming that demonstrates and promotes the benefit and importance of inclusionary arts and cultural programs for children and youth. The program is funded in part through a grant provided by The Children’s Trust. The Children’s Trust is a dedicated source of revenue established by voter referendum to improve the lives of children and families in Miami-Dade County. For more information visit www.AllKidsIncludedMiami.org and follow @allkidsincludedmiami.
About Department of Cultural Affairs
The Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council develop cultural excellence, diversity, access, and participation throughout Miami-Dade County by strategically creating and promoting equitable opportunities for artists and cultural organizations, and our residents and visitors who are their audiences.
The Department receives funding through the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners, The Children’s Trust, the National Endowment for the Arts, the State of Florida through the Florida Department of State, Florida Division of Arts and Culture and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, the Peacock Foundation, Inc. and The Jorge M. Pérez Family Foundation at The Miami Foundation. Other support and services are provided by TicketWeb for the Culture Shock Miami program, the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, the South Florida Cultural Consortium, and the Tourist Development Council.
To request materials in accessible format, sign language interpreters, CART, and/or any accommodation to participate in Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs sponsored programs or meetings, please contact Francine Andersen at 305-375-4634 or via email at culture@miamidade.gov, five days in advance to initiate your request. TTY users may also call 711 (Florida Relay Service).
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