The Sensational supplies pack, a new kit to accompany children with autism's visits to the Museum
Photo © Mikael Theimer (MKL)
Starting on April 2nd, World Autism Awareness Day, the MMFA, in collaboration with the Quebec government, will be offering a groundbreaking new way for neurodiverse children, along with their parents or companions, to discover the Museum.
The Sensational Supplies Pack will permit visitors with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) —no matter their age or level of support needed —to freely appreciate the works of the collection by way of a multisensory approach that takes into account how these visitors perceive the world around them. Each Sensational Supplies Pack contains creative materials, self-soothing objects to be manipulated, a map of the galleries, and four activity worksheets centred on works from the collection that stimulate the senses of sight, sound, and touch.
Presented in a way that is simple and playful, the activities, which have been vetted by our community partners, encourage participants to observe works of art, explore the environment of the Museum at their own pace, and develop their curiosity and creativity. The activities prompt participants to reflect on their feelings as they encounter different works of art, and encourage communication between the participants and their companion.
The Sensational Supplies Packs will be available for free with reservation, Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 12pm, beginning April 2nd.
A member of the Museum's team will be present on site to welcome visitors and help them kickoff their discovery of the Museum's collection of International Art.
Acknowledgements:
Sensational Supplies Pack:
In collaboration with the government of Quebec
The Art of Being Unique program:
Great benefactor: Fondation de la Chenelière
The Museum extends its thanks to Stella Jones
Creative partner: DeSerres
The Museum would like to thank its partners working alongside neurodiverse children and adults: Autisme sans limites, Autism Speaks Canada, Centre François-Michelle, the Gold Centre, Giant Steps School, École Irénée-Lussier, École Notre-Dames-des-Victoires, École Sainte-Étienne, Foundation Les Petits Rois, the Miriam Foundation, Nathalie Leroux and See Things My Way.