Help me plan SEN family activities at art gallery

[ThePartyArtist]

Hi, I am planning a family event at an art gallery, and would like it to be suitable for SEN. Please could anyone advise on what you'd really like to see at a family event in a contemporary art gallery? Or examples of really good family events you've been to? The event as a whole will offer opportunities to make things and experiment with different art activities. Thanks so much!

Lovely idea ! Some big coloured blocks could be good and I know it sounds silly but no people in masks!

Things to manipulate and fiddle with, including natural materials.
No masks, no babbling instructions and as many aware helpers as you can grab.

London zoo run a brilliant sen children's day . I think what your doing is great

Some museums do quiet sessions for children with autism or sensory difficulties eg science museum where they open early before general visitors. So a early bird or sunset slot (or both)when the gallery is shut to general public and it's quieter (parents are also more likely to take children whose behaviour can be unpredictable) if they know they will be in friendly company if their child has a meltdown). Providing a quiet / chill out area generally to go to can be helpful. Eureka in Halifax do a scheme where you are provided with an extra person / helper you can book which can be useful if there is mix of disabled child+siblings.

For children in wheelchairs, it makes a real difference if hands on activities are designed so they can access them front on rather than sideways. So at a suitable height with where possible space to put wheelchairs under any tables. Also any look through things should have wheelchair height options too.

Thank you everyone, this is all really helpful!