Sports Venues Create Quiet Refuge for Fans with Sensory Needs

Installed in time for a trial run on Opening Day, designers of what is called a “sensory nook” say the space was created for neurodivergent guests—those with autism or ADHD, for example—but is free for anyone like Burns who needs to step away from the action. It’s portable and features an overhead light that shines when the nook is powered on. A tactile board lights up with stars. And it can vibrate if needed for a calming effect.

“People really appreciate that it’s there,” said Eric Petersen, who is director of ticket services for the Mets and chairman of the team’s Accessibility and Disability Alliance. “They’re just grateful to have a space for their family member to go to in case they need to get away for a second.”

At times, people need just that. Consider a family that has tickets to a game and a child with autism or ADHD. After a long trip to the stadium or arena, parking, walking with the growing crowd filing in while waiting for the game to start, the noise inside can crescendo. A child might need a break. Without a quiet place, that family might turn around and go home. Instead, a sensory space can provide a place and some time to decompress.

I have no experience with this kind of thing but it seems like something that could make a real difference for a lot of families.