Vanderbilt University this week unveiled new sensory rooms at Memorial Gymnasium and FirstBank Stadium, the first Southeastern Conference venues to offer the accommodations.
“I am proud that Vanderbilt leads the way in creating a sensory-inclusive experience for everyone attending games and events in FirstBank Stadium, Hawkins Field and Memorial Gymnasium,” said Vanderbilt vice chancellor for athletics and university affairs and athletic director Candice Storey Lee in a statement. “Commodore Nation is strongest together, as a community that welcomes all and benefits from the diversity of our experiences. Coming together to watch Commodores compete for championships is the ultimate shared memory, and I’m grateful to Shan Foster and KultureCity for helping us to ensure all fans feel welcome and supported when they visit.”
An estimated one in six people in the United States have sensory processing needs. Examples of fellow community members who may experience sensory challenges include individuals with autism, chronic pain disorders, sensory processing disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder. Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation can be aggravated by the overstimulation and noise frequently found at sporting events, making it difficult for these fans and their friends and family members to participate in communal experiences.
Designed by medical professionals, sensory rooms like those available in Memorial Gymnasium and FirstBank Stadium provide a quiet and safe environment for those in need. Vanderbilt’s sensory rooms will feature bean bags, light-up walls and cubes, activity panels, bubble walls and custom art pieces.
Additionally, sensory bags will be available upon request for baseball, basketball and football games. These bags include a KCVIP lanyard, noise canceling headphones, verbal cue cards and feeling thermometer, fidget tools, and weighted lap pads. As part of KultureCity certification, staff members in both venues also receive training on how to recognize guests with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation.
Prior to attending a game, families can download the free KultureCity App and review what sensory features are available and where they can access them.
