Sunshine Sunday at Glazer’s Children’s Museum
Original reporting by Lydia Diehm
The lights are dimmed, the noise is lowered and the focus is comfort.
Sunshine Sunday is creating a different experience for families, one with their needs in mind.
At the Glazer Children’s Museum, families are experiencing play in a whole new way.
The atmosphere is calmer with less noise and more room for kids to explore at their own pace.
Sunshine Sunday is a sensory-friendly program offered from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. on the last Sunday of every month. It is designed for children who may feel overwhelmed in a typical museum setting.
The space is adjusted to reduce overstimulation, including lowered sound levels, dimmer lights and turing off exhibit features that could feel sudden or surprising.
The museum also limits the number of guests inside and offers discounted admission to help make the experience more accessible.
“Play is so important for all children. It’s how they practice life skills, it’s how they build cognitive development and physical development. So, it’s extremely important that children’s museums like the Glazer children’s museum is available to every child,” said Glazer Children’s Museum ‘s Chief Marketing Officer Kate White.
Parents say the program creates a space where their children can explore freely without feeling overwhelmed or misunderstood. Families can relax and enjoy the experience together.
“He’s having a great time right now, able to be himself, explore, enjoy himself without the extra anxiety,” said parent Samantha Criscione.
Beyond Sunshine Sunday, the museum offers other inclusive resources year-round.
For more information, visit glazerchildrensmuseum.com.
Florida SNAP program changes
Original reporting by Grace Senecal
A trip to the grocery store looks a bit different after a new Florida SNAP program begins.
Soda, candy, energy drinks and packaged desserts are no longer covered by SNAP benefits. This is a part of a two-year project by Florida DCF.
The goal of the program is to encourage healthy nutrition.
These new rules went into effect on Apr. 20.
For a list of the ineligible items, visit healthysnap.myfamilies.com.
Credits
Anchors: Hannah Lau Gleciano & Julia Soukar
Teleprompter: Zoey Patrick
Producer: Zoe Sax
CG: Sofia Celis Avellaneda
Floor Director: Maya Gluck
Tech Director: Grace Senecal
Editor: Gio Chitto
Web: Maya Gluck
Social Media: Catarina Rocha Tapias
Social Reporter: Ayla Yebba
Audio: Joana Riva
Camera: Lydia Diehm
Clock: Dr. Stephanie Elder
Faculty Advisor: Dr. Stephanie Elder
Graduate Assistant: Grace Ficara