A Special Day at the State Fair of Texas: Sensory-Friendly Mornings for Special Needs
DALLAS – The State Fair of Texas is a beloved annual tradition, drawing crowds with its vibrant sights, tantalizing smells, and exhilarating sounds. However, for individuals with special needs, the fair can often be a source of sensory overload and anxiety. Recognizing this challenge, fair organizers have introduced a thoughtful initiative: a dedicated morning each week designed specifically for those living with a range of disabilities.
Anticipation and Joy
As a group of young adult special education students from Allen Independent School District (ISD) arrives at the fair, their excitement is palpable. Ranging in age from 18 to 22, these students are eager to explore the colorful exhibits and indulge in the fair’s famous culinary delights. Christopher Bowles, one of the students, expresses his enthusiasm, saying, "I feel happy, pretty happy about it. It’s a good place to get you some exercise. We got some Whack-A-Mole, maybe some ring toss."
A Tailored Experience
Unlike the typical bustling atmosphere of the fair, the first Sensory-Friendly Morning of the year offers a more subdued environment. With lights dimmed and music turned off, the fair becomes a welcoming space for those who might otherwise struggle with the overwhelming stimuli. Adam Wright, an 18+ transition teacher at Allen ISD, explains, "Having different disabilities, they sometimes can get overstimulated with bright lights, bright sounds, or a huge crowd of people, so today everything is just kind of toned down, and our kids are able to function a little bit more normally than they would."
Safe Spaces for Relaxation
To further support fairgoers, the event features three designated quiet zones where individuals can retreat if they begin to feel overwhelmed. These areas provide a much-needed respite, allowing students to recharge and enjoy the fair at their own pace.
Learning Beyond Fun
The State Fair is not just about rides and games; it serves as an invaluable learning experience for students with special needs. Teachers emphasize that these outings help students develop essential life skills. Wright elaborates, "They’re learning all kinds of skills. It’s everything from social skills to learning how to interact with people every day. They’re learning money skills, paying for things with tickets, things they’re eating, drinking, paying for rides and games." For Bowles, this means savoring a much-anticipated fried turkey leg while gaining practical knowledge about navigating life.
Thriving in the Moment
Witnessing the joy of the students is a heartwarming experience. Wright notes, "It’s fantastic to see them thrive out here. They’re so excited. We’ve been talking about this for months." The enthusiasm is echoed by student Tate Cooper, who has attended the fair every year with his dad. He shares, "It makes me happy. I’m excited. I’m not sad or angry. I’m happy! I love everything, like my teachers and the students, too."
Cherished Memories and Future Plans
As the day unfolds, Bowles reflects on his favorite moments and looks forward to next year. "The Midway is always the best part because you can win some prizes," he says, highlighting the joy of friendly competition and the thrill of winning.
Upcoming Sensory-Friendly Mornings
For families with special needs or those on the autism spectrum, the opportunity to enjoy the fair in a sensory-friendly environment continues. The remaining Sensory-Friendly Mornings are scheduled for October 9 and 16, from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. For those interested, a guided itinerary for this year’s events can be downloaded here.
The State Fair of Texas is making strides to ensure that everyone can partake in the joy and excitement of this cherished event, creating a more inclusive experience for all.