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Today's Family Magazine

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame launches sensory-friendly program featuring sensory bags for visitors

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is collaborating with KultureCity, an organization that works with venues to create acceptance and inclusion for all individuals with unique abilities, to make the Museum and all of its programs and events that it hosts sensory inclusive. The collaboration represents the Museum’s ongoing transformation and commitment to promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests with a sensory need that visits the Museum.

“We engage, teach and inspire through the power of rock and roll,” said Greg Harris, president & CEO, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. “Like rock and roll, our programs, events and the Museum is accessible to anyone and everyone who wishes to experience them.”

Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions. One of the major barriers for individuals with sensory sensitivities is sensitivity to over stimulation and noise, which is an enormous part of the environment at the Rock Hall.

Beginning Friday, August 24, guests who feel overwhelmed by the environment can check out sensory bags at no cost to utilize noise dampening headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, weighted lap pads and other resources during their visit. Bags are available at Guest Services on the lower level of the Museum. 

As part of this initiative, the Rock Hall’s education programs such as Toddler Rock and Rockin’ the Schools will also offer students with unique needs additional resources including access to sensory bags.

With this new certification, the Rock Hall is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible. The Museum now features around seventy-five trained Rock Hall team members who received sensory awareness training. The training, led by KultureCity, allowed staff to learn how to better interact with guests who have sensory sensitivities. The program covered topics such as how to recognize those with sensory needs and strategies for better interaction and communication with sensory sensitive guests.

“Our communities are what shapes our lives and to know that the Rock Hall is willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing,” Traci Johnson, Executive Director, KultureCity.

KultureCity is a leading nonprofit recognized nationwide for using their resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs; not just those with autism. In the past year alone, KultureCity has created several sensory inclusive venues and events including the NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, 16 NBA arenas, 5 NFL stadiums, 5 NHL arenas and countless zoos, science centers and aquariums across the nation.

About the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Rock Connects Us. Our mission is clear: To engage, teach and inspire through the power of rock and roll. We share stories of the people, events and songs that shape our world through exhibits, innovative programs and concerts. Join the millions who love it as much as you do. Experience us live or online – Visit rockhall.com or Facebook (@rockandrollhalloffame), Twitter (@rockhall) and Instagram (@rockhall). Long Live Rock!