The State of Arts Access for Persons with Diverse Sensory and Cognitive Abilities

There have been a global wave of sensory friendly, relaxed experiences in cultural arts venues including museums, performing arts, zoos, and even comedy clubs. What is this phenomenon? What is the evidence of impact for individuals with neurodevelopmental disabilities as well as the general public? What are the new sensory friendly initiatives for the future? Come learn about arts access for persons with diverse sensory and cognitive abilities.

Presented by  Roger Ideishi, Program Director and Associate Professor of Occupational Therapy, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA. Throughout his career, Roger has worked to provide community access and opportunity for children with diverse sensory and cognitive abilities. He advises community organizations on building meaningful learning experiences for children and their families. He has worked with organizations including the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts and the Smithsonian Institution (Washington, DC) and presented his work in regional, national, and international venues. He and his students have collaborated with various organizations to serve vital community interests resulting in the creation of outdoor play spaces, learning gardens, community mosaic murals, and movement/arts-based curricula to enhance the quality of life for children and families.