Live performances can be magical: music swelling, lights sparkling, crowds cheering. For children (and adults) with sensory sensitivities, though, the same elements can feel unpredictable—too loud, too bright, too crowded. With a little planning, you can turn special outings into successful memories for all audience members.
Before You Go: Set Up for Success
Choose the right show. Look for sensory friendly performances—shorter run times, moderated sound and lighting, flexible seating, and relaxed house rules (standing, stimming, entering/exiting as needed). Many venues now design these specifically for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
Preview the experience. Show photos or a 60-second video of the venue. Create a simple visual timeline (drive → tickets → seats → intermission → home). Practice a few cues at home: “Headphones on,” “Break time,” “All done.”
Seat strategically. Book aisle or back-row seats so your child can step out easily. Identify exits, restrooms, and any posted quiet rooms before the lights dim.
Pack a Small “Show Kit”
- Noise-reducing or noise-canceling headphones
- Sunglasses or a brimmed hat (for spotlight moments)
- A compact fidget or soft comfort item
- Water and a protein snack (if venue policy allows)
- A cue card with two or three choices: “seat / lobby break / bathroom”
Introduce each tool at home first so it’s familiar on show day.
Arrival & Transitions
Arrive a little early while the house is calmer. Walk the lobby, practice finding your seats, and agree on a regroup point. If ushers offer a social story or visual guide, review it together. Use short, clear language: “First two songs, then check in.”
During the performance, think “engage → brief reset → re-engage.” A three-minute lobby walk can prevent a fifteen-minute meltdown.
In-Seat Regulation
- Grounding scan: “Find 5 things you see, 3 you hear, 2 you feel.”
- Box breath: Inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4—traced on a palm.
- Quiet signals: Agree on a hand squeeze for “need a break.”
If clapping spikes arousal, try silent jazz-hands or gentle tapping on knees. Celebrate small successes: “You noticed the drums were loud and used your headphones—great self-advocacy.”
Intermission & Exits
Use intermission as a reset—bathroom, sip of water, a minute of fresh air. If your child doesn’t resettle after a couple of cycles, take the early win and head out. Leaving on a manageable note makes next time easier.
After the Curtain: Debrief & Build Confidence
On the ride home, keep it short and positive:
- “What was your favorite part?”
- “What was hard?”
- “What should we change for next time?”
Update your show kit and visual timeline. Confidence grows with repetition; baby steps expand the comfort zone.
When Extra Support Helps
If outings consistently feel overwhelming, a few sessions with an occupational therapist or behaviorally informed clinician can help tailor strategies for sensory sensitivities, crowd navigation, and communication support—so performances feel safer and more enjoyable for all audience members.
Support in Darien and Wilton
At Sasco River Center, we help families plan for concerts, theaters, and holiday shows—choosing sensory friendly performances, building visual schedules, and creating personalized regulation kits.
📍 Meet with us in Darien or Wilton, Connecticut, or via telehealth.
📞 Call (203) 202-7654 or email us to get a customized performance-day plan that helps your child feel prepared, supported, and excited to enjoy the show.