Helping Children Cope With Sensory Overstimulation at Theme Parks: An Educational Video Series for Parents

Authors

Ashley M. Garcia, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
Steven M. Gerardi PhD, OTD, MSS, OTR, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow

Files

Description

Parents of children with sensory processing challenges often feel overwhelmed and unprepared when visiting high-stimulation environments such as theme parks. Loud sounds, bright lights, crowded walkways, and unpredictable routines can contribute to sensory overload, creating distress for both children and caregivers. Although theme parks aim to provide joyful family experiences, they may not fully account for the needs of neurodivergent children, including those with autism spectrum disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or sensory processing disorder. Parents of children with debilitating sensory issues are unsure and uncertain on how to prepare to assist their child to cope with the overwhelming sensory stimuli at theme parks. The purpose pf this project was to create an educational video series for parents on how to help their children cope with debilitating sensory stimuli at theme parks. The six-episode series, grounded in occupational therapy principles and informed by current literature, neurodivergent voices, and parent perspectives, offers proactive and affirming strategies to promote participation and enjoyment. This paper describes the project's development, presents a review of the literature, and discusses its strengths, limitations, and implications for future practice. Links to the full video series and transcripts are included as appendices.

Publication Date

Summer 8-6-2025

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Sensory processing, Sensory processing disorder, Autism, ADHD, Theme parks, Occupational therapy, Parent education, Inclusion, Sensory strategies, Family-centered care

Medical Subject Headings

Children, Parents, Sensory processing, Caregivers, ASD, ADHD, Occupational therapy, Enjoyment

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences | Occupational Therapy

Comments

Poster presented at the OTD Capstone Symposium held at the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, Summer 2025.

Recommended Citation

Garcia, A. M., & Gerardi, S. M. (2025, August 6). Helping Children Cope With Sensory Overstimulation at Theme Parks: An Educational Video Series for Parents. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonessummer2025/16