BOSTON, Mass. – Sensory kits designed for neurodiverse children and adults are now available for visitors at seven Trustees of Reservations locations around Massachusetts. The kits are another initiative by The Trustees to highlight accessibility and ensure that all visitors feel welcome.
The kits, provided through a partnership with Autism Alliance, include a drawstring backpack, ID badge, lanyard, noise-cancelling headphones, sunglasses, water timer, squishy toy, chewy tube, and a social storybook. The kits provide items such as sensory toys designed to stimulate one or more of the five senses, providing a safe and fun way for children to explore and interact with their surroundings. Additionally, they can act as a calming influence for neurodiverse children and adults who might feel overwhelmed or stressed.
“We hope these kits make visiting Trustees properties and programming more accessible and enjoyable for individuals with autism by providing a bit of support to navigate sensory-rich environments,” said Mark Lindsay, accessibility coordinator for The Trustees. “We greatly appreciate the guidance from Autism Alliance on sharing this material with our visitors.”
Locations with the sensory kits are Weir River Farm in Hingham, Naumkeag in Stockbridge, Appleton Farms in Ipswich and Hamilton, Chestnut Hill Farm in Southborough, the FARM Institute on Martha’s Vineyard, Powisset Farm in Dover, and deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum in Lincoln. The Trustees hope to offer kits at more properties in the future.
The participating properties have at least two kits each. Families interested in using a kit while visiting may reserve one by contacting the property in advance.
To reserve a kit, contact the properties at:
- The FARM Institute: lbrown@thetrustees.org
- Appleton Farms: appletonfarms@thetrustees.org
- Powisset Farm: powissetfarm@thetrustees.org
- Chestnut Hill Farm: chestnuthillfarm@thetrustees.org
- deCordova: phone 781-259-8355 (kits available at admissions desk and gift shop)
- Naumkeag: naumkeag@thetrustees.org
- Weir River Farm: weirriver@thetrustees.org
The Trustees regularly offer sensory-friendly programming featuring fewer guests and a quieter environment at several properties. For a list of sensory-friendly programs, go to https://thetrustees.org/program/sensory-friendly-programs/. In 2022, Weir River Farm was awarded Autism Welcoming Status by the Autism Alliance.
More about The Trustees
Founded by landscape architect Charles Eliot in 1891, The Trustees has, for more than 130 years, been a catalyst for important ideas, endeavors, and progress in Massachusetts. As a steward of distinctive and dynamic places of both historic and cultural value, The Trustees is the nation’s first preservation and conservation organization, and its landscapes and landmarks continue to inspire discussion, innovation, and action today as they did in the past. We are a nonprofit, supported by members, friends and donors and our more than 120 sites are destinations for residents, members, and visitors alike, welcoming millions of guests annually. www.thetrustees.org.