The Geology Museum in Bucharest becomes the first museum in Romania that implements specific measures to easy access of children with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder).
Thus, as of September 30, the museum will be equipped with sensorial maps and backpacks, it will organize guided tours especially designed for autistic children and it will arrange special areas where they can relax, the Help Autism Association informs on Thursday.
The first stage of the project included a detailed audit of the space, which was meant to identify and eliminate all sensorial barriers that could prevent children with ASD from enjoying a visit to the museum. At the same time, the specialists checked the lightning and the acoustics of the space.
"Based on the data we have collected, the experts team will create, in a second stage of the project, a detailed sensorial map that will show the quiet spots and those with a reduce level of stimulation, and it will signal where the children can go for a break, if they need it during the guided tours," reads the abovementioned source.
The Help Autism Association initiated this project in partnership with the National Authority for the Protection of People with Disability, aiming to offer autistic children "the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of the museums in a safe environment". Children with autism face difficulties when it comes to participating in cultural activities "because of their sensitivity to sensorial stimuli and specific communication needs", shows the Association. The purpose of this project is to reduce the social isolation of children with autism and increase their self esteem, to promote inclusion and good practices.
"We are transforming the National Museum of Geology into a friendly and inclusive space, where each and every child can feel welcomed. With the help of the sensorial maps, of the personalized backpacks and the especially designed guided tours, the children with special needs will be able to explore the fascinating world of the museum in a friendly environment for them and for their needs. Thus, we encourage the social, emotional and cognitive development of these children and we create a model of good practices for other cultural institutions," stated Tiberiu Bratu, accessibility and inclusion specialist for autistic children.
The sensorial backpack includes a diversity of tactile, auditive and visual objects, which help the children to adapt more easily to the museum environment and to better manage the outside stimuli. More than that, a series of indicators will signal the areas that can cause them a sensorial overstimulation. The projects also stipulates that a relaxation area will be arranged too for children to be able to take a break and regain their sensorial balance. Moreover, the museum staff will be instructed how to interact with these children in an efficient and emphatic manner.
"What we want is that the children will feel good at the museum. Which is why we created a special project for the children with ASD. Together, we are going to explore the fascinating world of the museum in a safe and funny way. We are waiting for them open arms!" said the president of the Help Autism Association, Daniela Bololoi.
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