How Sensory Safe Events is Redefining Fun for Neurodivergent Communities
An Interview with Kristina Louise, Founder of Sensory Safe Events
Finding entertainment spaces that truly accommodate neurodivergent individuals can be a challenge. That’s where Sensory Safe Events comes in. Founded by Kristina Louise, this groundbreaking platform is transforming how Autistic and neurodivergent kids and young adults experience events. In this interview, Kristina shares her journey, the mission behind Sensory Safe Events, and her vision for the future.
Q: Could you introduce yourself and explain your role at Sensory Safe Events?
Howdy! I’m Kristina Louise, the Founder and President of Sensory Safe Inc.
Q: What’s the elevator pitch for Sensory Safe Events?
Sensory Safe’s mission is to promote and create entertainment experiences for Autistic and neurodivergent kids and young adults. Our online calendar is a one-stop shop for sensory-friendly events across the USA.
The Origin Story
Q: What was the inspiration behind founding Sensory Safe Events?
As a mom to three neurodivergent boys, I was always searching for fun events where my kids wouldn’t feel overstimulated and could just be themselves. Too often, activities for Autistic kids were focused on education or therapy – I just wanted my kids to have fun.
I spent hours each week scouring the web and making calls to find events that were the right fit. To stay organized, I created an online calendar. Since I’m both a web developer and a librarian, the research and build-out were actually fun for me! Over time, I realized other families like mine needed this resource, too. That’s when Sensory Safe Events was born.
I knew I couldn’t do this alone – I’m also a wife, parent, entrepreneur, daughter, sister, and friend! So, I put together an amazing team, and here we are.
Q: Can you share a little about your kids and how they’ve influenced your journey?
My boys are incredible – witty, brilliant, and sensitive. They love new experiences, but the environment has to be right. One major challenge for them is loud, echoing noises. We’ve had to leave so many events because the acoustic environment was painful for them. Especially when we forgot their earmuffs and the venue wasn’t prepared to accommodate sensory needs.Thanks to the work of neurodivergent adults, more venues are accommodating sensory needs today. But there’s still work to be done, and my kids inspire me to keep pushing for change.
The Mission and Vision
Q: What’s the core mission of Sensory Safe Events?
We want Autistic kids and young adults to have fun – on their terms. Fun looks different for everyone, and accommodations are the key to making events enjoyable.
As someone who works in web accessibility, I’ve seen firsthand how digital barriers impact user experience. I don’t want physical spaces to create similar barriers for my kids or any other neurodivergent individuals.
Q: Where do you see Sensory Safe Events in the next five years?
We’re growing rapidly! Our calendar now covers all 50 states, and we’re expanding coverage in key markets.
What’s next?
- Signature event series launching this year
- Opening physical locations in the next five years to host events and build a community space for neurodivergent individuals
The Impact of Sensory Safe Events
Q: Can you share any stories or testimonials that highlight the impact of Sensory Safe Events?
Originally, we focused on kids and young adults, but we quickly realized we were also reaching neurodivergent parents! Seeing engagement from all life stages is incredible.
Q: What have been the most rewarding and challenging aspects of running Sensory Safe Events?
The biggest challenge? Reining in our ideas! We want to do so much, but we’ve learned to focus on one thing at a time and do it really well. Right now, our calendar is fantastic, so we’re ready for our next big projects.
The Nitty-Gritty: How It Works
Q: How do you ensure that events listed on your site are truly sensory-safe?
Every event on our site gets a human review. We read descriptions, check the venue’s accessibility pages, and if anything is unclear, we call them! It’s labor-intensive, but it’s necessary to ensure high-quality listings and connect with passionate event organizers.
Q: Have any partnerships or collaborations been particularly impactful?
Absolutely! Symphonies, libraries, and museums have been incredible partners. They understand the importance of accommodations and welcome feedback to improve accessibility.
Expansion and Future Plans
Q: What’s the roadmap for adding more cities and states? Why expand to Chicago first?
Chicago’s parenting scene is legendary – innovative and packed with resources. We knew we’d find both great events and engaged families there, and we were right!
Q: Any plans to integrate technologies like AI or Web3 into your platform?
We’re always looking at tech to improve user experience, but right now, we’re focused on community growth first.
Kristina’s Insights on Inclusion
Q: What’s your personal philosophy on making the world more inclusive for neurodivergent individuals?
My business motto is simple:
If something isn’t accessible, it’s broken. Period.
Inclusion should be a priority from the start – not an afterthought. A world built for everyone is a world that’s better for everyone.
Q: What advice do you have for parents, event organizers, or businesses looking to be more sensory-inclusive?
- Listen to Autistic people. Every experience is different – talk to as many people as possible.
- Engage with neurodivergent voices. Our blog is a great resource where we amplify these perspectives.
- Ask questions! That’s how we all grow.
Get Involved!
Q: How can people support Sensory Safe Events?
We’re always looking for volunteers, sponsors, and community support. If you want to help us build a world where neurodivergent individuals can enjoy entertainment without barriers, get in touch!
Kristina Louise’s journey is one of passion, innovation, and relentless advocacy. Through Sensory Safe Events, she’s not just creating fun and accessible spaces—she’s reshaping the entire conversation around inclusion in entertainment.
Sensory Safe Events isn’t just about events – it’s about belonging. And thanks to Kristina’s vision, that belonging is becoming a reality for thousands of families.
Want to get involved? ???? Visit Sensory Safe Events to explore upcoming events and learn how to support our mission!
