The Frist is dedicated to creating a welcoming and accessible environment for all our guests. We’re excited to introduce Sensory-Friendly Sunday Mornings, where we will open an hour early on select Sundays throughout the year, offering sensory-friendly resources and experiences.
During this time, we will reduce the volume of any audios playing in our exhibitions, keep Martin ArtQuest open, and provide multisensory carts for guests. First introduced in 2014, these carts are available for most exhibitions and are staffed by docents. They offer tactile objects and scents that directly relate to the artworks on display, enhancing the sensory experience.
We are also pleased to offer Take a Break sensory kits, available in Martin ArtQuest on any day, which include tools for calming and focusing at the museum. Each kit includes a weighted lap pad, noise-canceling headphones, disposable headphone covers, a timer, tangle and sensory tube fidgets, and sanitizing wipes.
Also available are social learning tools that support the safe and meaningful exchange of information. These visual guides, called Social Stories, outline what to expect in different environments, helping people of all ages and abilities navigate new or unfamiliar settings with confidence. By providing clear, step-by-step explanations, the Frist’s Social Story is intended to reduce anxiety and promote inclusion, making our institution more welcoming and accessible for everyone.