Families with children on the autism spectrum or individuals with sensory sensitivities often find the bustling environment of the Ulster County Fair overwhelming. In response, Ulster BOCES, in collaboration with the Resource Center for Accessible Living (RCAL) and the Ulster County Agricultural Society (UCAS), is pleased to announce the return of the Sensory Safe Space at the Ulster County Fair for its second year. The fair will take place from Tuesday, July 30 through Sunday, August 4, 2024, and the sensory-friendly environment will be available throughout.

“The Fair is fun but can feel chaotic with the lights, sounds, and people all around,” said Dr. Barbara Hastie, Supervisor of Instructional Services for Ulster BOCES. “People with autism or sensory processing issues may find the bright lights, loud sounds, and strong smells at the Fair overwhelming. We want to make it possible for these individuals to have a positive experience at the fair.”

The Sensory Safe Space offers respite from bright lights, crowds, and the summer heat, featuring bubble tubes, mats, seating, touch-and-feel books about animals, noise-canceling headphones, and a charging station for augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. UCAS has generously donated $2,000 toward supplies for this year's Sensory Safe Space.

“UCAS has shown incredible support for creating inclusive spaces with their donation toward supplies for our Sensory Safe Space,” said Hastie. “It's important for this space to exist so that everyone can enjoy the fair, regardless of their sensory needs.”

“Last year, the Sensory Safe Space allowed for 342 visitors to enjoy the Ulster County Fair, knowing there was a space that was quiet, provided hands-on soothing sensory toys, and air conditioning for those moments when people needed a break. One visitor borrowed one of the many noise-canceling headphones, stood in a line for 40 minutes, and was able to ride the Ferris Wheel for the first time,” said Renee Falanga-Brenner, Special Education Advocate at RCAL and one of the organizers. “This is just one of the many reasons the Sensory Safe Space is a wonderful addition to the Ulster County Fair.”

The Sensory Safe Space will be open daily from 10 AM to 10 PM throughout the fair. In
addition, the fair will host special sensory hours Wednesday, July 31 through Sunday, August 4 from 10 AM to 11 AM, during which no rides will be running. Dreamland Amusements, the vendor providing the rides, will also offer extended sensory hours on Wednesday, July 31 through Sunday, August 4 from 11 AM to 12 PM, when the rides will operate without lights or sound.

“We’re turning down the sounds and lights, trying to make it a little more sensory sensitive for those who get overstimulated easily,” added Falanga-Brenner.

The team is currently seeking support to staff the space and monetary donations to purchase additional materials.

“Donations and volunteers will be instrumental in making the Sensory Safe Space a success,” Hastie said. “Our hope is that this resource will continue to grow into an integral part of the Ulster County Fair experience over the years.”

To donate or get involved, please contact Dr. Barbara Hastie, Ulster BOCES, at (845) 255-1400 or email bhastie@ulsterboces.org. For more information about the Ulster County Fair, visit www.ulstercountyfair.com.