Sensory-friendly morning offers quieter experience for children with sensory needs

While attending the fair is a summertime tradition for many families, the loud music, flashing lights and large crowds can be overwhelming for people with sensory sensitivities.

Lexington Regional Health Center partnered with the Dawson County Fair Board to provide a quieter, more accessible experience so families could enjoy the fair together.

"At Lexington Regional Health Center, we have a really huge pediatric rehabilitation service that we offer, and we know a lot of kids with sensory difficulties can struggle in an environment like this," Brenna Bartruff, chief communications officer at Lexington Regional Health Center, said. "So, being able to do this is huge for our community. We want families to be involved as much as they can in these activities."

Bartruff said she was grateful the fair reached out to the hospital about partnering for the event.

During the sensory-friendly morning, music was turned down, ride lights were kept mostly off and only a handful of rides operated, creating a calmer, less crowded environment for families.

Lexington Regional Health Center's rehabilitation team was also on site to assist families. Some staff members even rode attractions alongside children to help them feel more comfortable.

"Being inclusive is really important. I work with kids with autism, and I think it's really cool to see inclusion everywhere, especially in smaller towns," Abbey Whittaker said.

Whittaker brought her three young nieces to the event so her niece Meela, who has Pitt-Hopkins syndrome, could experience the fair in a calm environment.

"She wouldn't have as much fun at night at the fair because there's too much sound and too many flashing lights. Too many people can really overstimulate her, so it's good to have a time where she can hang out by herself and with her sisters," Whittaker said.

For children who preferred not to ride the attractions or needed a break, organizers provided a sensory station featuring mini sandboxes, a toy fishing pool and access to the FFA animal barn.

Jet, a therapy miniature horse, was also on site to offer comfort — and kisses. His owner, Teri Edeal, has had him since he was born eight years ago and recertifies him as a therapy animal every two years.

Jet is registered with Pet Partners. Edeal said "he's very intuitive and seems to know who needs his comfort the most."

Children eagerly approached him to hug and pet him. The well-trained miniature horse shook hands and delighted some children by giving Edeal a kiss.

A second miniature horse, Bear, was also in the FFA animal barn alongside two llamas and several chickens. Children were invited to pet the animals if they wished.