JONESBORO, Ark.—The Northeast Arkansas District Fair hosted a sensory day on Sunday, offering children with developmental disabilities a comfortable and controlled way to experience the fair's festivities.
Amber Warren, secretary of the Northeast Arkansas District Fair, spearheaded the event to address challenges some children face with noise, crowds, and bright visuals typical of a fair environment.
“The fair is a very exciting place,” Warren said. “It’s very loud. It’s very colorful, and a lot of children struggle with that. They struggle with the music and the crowds and the sights. So, we wanted the fair to be a place that all children can enjoy.”
Sunday marked the third sensory day Warren has helped organize. The event, held in partnership with Ag for Autism and PBJ, provided free admission for participants who registered in advance. Adjustments included reducing noise levels, shutting down some of the most intense rides, and encouraging families to explore the fair at a child’s pace.
Warren’s daughter, Olivia, contributed to sensory day as well. She shared her enthusiasm for helping create a welcoming environment for children at the fair. “My favorite part is when we get to decorate where little kids, I mean autistic kids, get to take pictures in front of our booths that we made,” Olivia said. “And that we just get to help children that have autistic [traits] and ... they get to have this beautiful day.”
Nikki Hall, who attended the fair with her family, expressed gratitude for the event, which she said fosters a sense of community and understanding for families raising children with developmental disabilities.
“It’s definitely a challenge most days,” Hall shared. “But it’s also the most rewarding thing in the entire world. We are her caregivers. We are the only people that she has. And we’re her entire team. And that’s okay.”
Sunday’s sensory day was closed to the general public, offering families a more relaxing and inclusive fair experience. Regular fair hours are set to resume Monday.