Sensory Friendly Films

I love an idea that’s great for everyone, and Sensory Friendly Films are just that.

AMC Entertainment and the Autism Society sponsor a monthly film day so kids with autism can go to the movies – but in a way that’s tailored to meet their needs.  During these special showings, some lights are left on and the volume is turned down.  Parents are allowed to bring their food since many of their children are on restricted diets.  Kids can also make noises and move up and down the aisles—even touch the big screen—if they want.  Best of all, no one is shooting anyone dirty looks or calling the usher.

This idea is a win-win for all, especially the following:

Families with kids with autism

Now they can go to the movies without worrying what might happen.  If you don’t have a child with special needs, you probably haven’t considered how many places in the community seem off-limits to many families. That’s because parents of such kids are often judged when their child does not behave in a way that’s expected.

AMC Theatres

Without question, Sensory Friendly Films are great for business.  Not only is it good public relations to reach out and acknowledge a special group of kids, but I’m betting that show times for Sensory Friendly Films are not scheduled during peak hours.  So, AMC helps families, and at the same time brings in more revenue.  Brilliant.

Employment for teens and adults with autism

The huge response to Sensory Friendly Films (they are offered at 67 AMC sites in 36 markets) has provided lots of opportunities to AMC employees to get to know this special population of kids. I’m guessing such rich experiences were a catalyst for AMC’s recent announcement of a new employee program. They now have plans to help integrate teens and adults with autism into the theater’s workforce.  How cool is that?

Families without kids with special need

Sensory Friendly Films also addresses these families’ needs. While no one wants to appear unsympathetic to such kids, the truth is  . . .  most of us go to the theater expecting everyone to sit still and be silent throughout the movie.  By offering Sensory Friendly Films, no one has to choose between being supportive of a child who is moving around and making noises or enjoying a movie in a still, quiet environment.

Does this mean that we should always isolate kids with special needs and forgo compassion and tolerance whenever we happen to be in the same place? Absolutely not.  But I do think it’s genius any time businesses and support groups work together to meet everyone’s needs.

So why stop with Sensory Friendly Films?  How many other businesses could use this model to do something similar?

Just seems like the world would be a little kinder if we continue to find ways to help each other.