Sensory-Friendly Morning Returns to the Iowa State Fair

DES MOINES, IA (06/20/2024) (readMedia)-- The Iowa State Fair is excited to partner again with presenting sponsor, ChildServe, and programming sponsor, Drake University, to host a Sensory-Friendly Morning at the Fair on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, from 8 a.m. to noon.

Sensory-Friendly Morning returns to the Fair for the third year in 2024 and has grown in popularity with special programming modifications, designated educational areas, clear directional signage and trained volunteers throughout the Fairgrounds. Extra consideration has been given to environmental factors at the Fair that might contribute to sensory overload, including sounds and lights, tastes, touches and smells for the morning.

Two separate calming rooms will be offered for Fairgoers who might need a break. One room called "Calm Your Body" offers sensory experiences like adjustable lighting, fidgets, music, coloring sheets and comfortable chairs. The other room called "Move Your Body" utilizes active stretching, jumping, bouncing on therapy balls and an obstacle course. All the rooms are air-conditioned and staffed by ChildServe Occupational Therapists.

A complete list of Sensory-Friendly Morning activities will be rolled out at www.iowastatefair.org.

Can't attend Sensory-Friendly Morning? Find a comprehensive list of daily Fair activities and areas suitable for children and adults with sensory processing disorders at www.iowastatefair.org. The Service Center calming room will be open throughout the Fair from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. but will only be staffed from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, August 14.

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About The Iowa State Fair

Frequently ranked as one of the top events in the country, the Iowa State Fair is the single largest event in the state of Iowa and one of the oldest and largest agricultural and industrial expositions in the country. Annually attracting more than a million people from all over the world, the Iowa State Fair, located at East 30th and East University, just 10 minutes from downtown Des Moines, is Iowa's greatest celebration with a salute to the best in agriculture, industry, entertainment and achievement. Catch Fair Fever at the Iowa State Fair, August 8-18, 2024. For more information, visit www.iowastatefair.org.

About ChildServe

ChildServe is a specialty pediatric healthcare provider for children and young adults with special healthcare needs. For over 95 years, the organization has partnered with families to help children with special healthcare needs live a great life. ChildServe provides more than 30 services to nearly 5,800 children in Iowa each year. The organization's array of services are interwoven and streamlined, so families can get many of their child's needs met in one location. ChildServe's key focus areas include: complex medical care, pediatric rehabilitation, autism and behavioral health, and community-based services.