Turn It Down: Helping Kids with Light and Sound Sensitivity

 

Does your child cover their ears at the vacuum? Melt down under supermarket lights? They’re not being dramatic – their nervous system is just working differently [1]. 

For many children with autism, ADHD, or sensory processing differences, everyday sounds and lights can feel completely overwhelming.  

At Share My Ability, we’ve thought carefully about how to make our centre a place where every child can thrive. 

 

Here are some tips to get the most out of your visit: 
1) Spend Time in Our Sensory Relax Room

Our Sensory Relax Room is a dedicated space to decompress, regulate, and simply breathe. It features ambient lighting, colour-changing bubble tubes, and soothing lighting – designed to give children a calm reset, the atmosphere peaceful and welcoming for everyone. 

2) Bring Along Sunglasses

Different types of lighting can be a common trigger for visual sensitivity. While we aim to make our centre and sensory-friendly as possible, a simple pair of sunglasses can make a huge difference by reducing glare and helping your child stay regulated so they can enjoy more of their visit. Pack them in your bag alongside any other sensory supports you use day-to-day. 

3) Book Out the Whole Centre for a Private Event

Sometimes the best sensory environment is a quieter one. You can book Share My Ability exclusively for private events – perfect for birthday parties, end-of-year celebrations, or family days where you want the whole space to yourselves. No unexpected crowds, no unpredictable noise. Just fun on your own terms. 

4) Stop Into Our Sensory Store on the Way In

Before you head to the floor, check out our Sensory Store cabinets and grab what you need. A pair of sensory earmuffs can be a total gamechanger for kids with sound sensitivities – and 25dB of noise reduction means your child can still engage with everything around them, just at a better volume that works for them. Our team can help you find the right fit. 

 

Our Sensory Store stocks a carefully curated range of sensory tools for all ages and abilities, available in-centre or online. 

Visit us at Unit 1, 57 Regentville Road, Jamisontown NSW 2750 and come see what we’re all about. 

 

Share My Ability is owned and operated by NADO, a registered NDIS Provider with over 40 years of experience. 

 


Reference  

[1] – https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/behaviour/understanding-behaviour/sensory-sensitivities-asd 

Waiver and Release Form Share My Ability

Issued August 2021

Please read the following terms carefully. By participating in any class, activity or using any equipment provided by Nepean Area Disabilities Organisation (the Owner) you consent to, and agree to release the Owner from liability according to, these terms. Unless the Owner notifies you otherwise, this waiver and release will apply to all activities undertaken by you at Share My Ability (the premises).

You acknowledge that:

  • are over 18 years of age (if not, a parent/guardian must sign on your behalf)
  • understand that the using equipment provided by, and/or engaging in activities at, the premises is a form of physical activity and that there are inherent risks in undertaking any form of physical exercise
  • have disclosed, or will disclose to the Owner prior to commencing your session, any pre-existing conditions that may place you at a higher risk of injury or inhibit your ability to participate in certain activities or using certain equipment, this includes, but is not limited to:
    • injuries, pain or recent surgery
    • pregnancy or if you have recently given birth
    • respiratory or heart conditions or high blood pressure
    • physical condition or lack of mobility which may prevent safe use of the equipment
  • agree to notify the Owner and its Representatives (staff members) if you experience any pain throughout the session and will immediately stop participating in the session if requested by the Owner or its representatives
  • acknowledge that, based on information you provide, the Owner may decide not to allow you to participate in a session or activity, or use a certain piece of equipment, or may require you to provide a medical certificate affirming that you are able to participate in a session or activity or use a certain piece of equipment before allowing you to join, at the Owner’s sole discretion
  • acknowledge that recommendations or instruction provided by the Owner or Representatives may not be tailored for your particular skill or ability level and it is your responsibility to assess whether you are able or want to participate in all or part of a session or activity
  • acknowledge you are solely responsible for ensuring that your physical environment is suitable for your participation in any session or activity; and
  • agree that sessions may be recorded by the Owner for quality control or promotional purposes. If you do not consent to the Owner using video or still images taken during the session for promotional purposes, please notify the Owner in writing.

 

To the extent permitted at law, you release and hold the Owner (and where applicable its, directors, employees and representatives) harmless from any liability, cost, expense, damages or claims (including claims of negligence) arising from or which may be suffered or incurred in connection with your participation in any sessions or activities provided by the Owner.