People can now use these sensory backpacks at Waterloo facilities

People who may experience sensory sensitives can now access backpacks with tools to help them navigate six different facilities in the City of Waterloo.

The backpacks became available on April 2 to align with World Autism Day. 

"We designed them to serve individuals in the community with different sensory processing disabilities or sensory sensitivities that may benefit from having the backpacks in spaces that can sometimes be really overwhelming," explained Molly Riediger, Waterloo's inclusion services co-ordinator. 

The bags contain:

• Sunglasses and noise cancelling headphones to reduce sensory input.
• A variety of fidget tools and a chair band to increase sensory input.
• Picture exchange communication system (PECS), a timer, and a drawing pad for self-regulation and communication.

The backpacks are free of charge and can be signed out by anyone 13 years or older. Anyone younger who needs one can have a parent or guardian sign one out on their behalf. 

After seeing other municipalities roll out the tools, Riediger said Waterloo adopted the idea. She said the city's museum had expressed interest in getting the backpacks.

"We thought, why wouldn't we want to implement these across the city?" she said.

No personal information is needed to be shared to sign out the bags, but staff ask that the backpacks and their contents remain in the facilities. They can be used as long as needed.

They can be found at:

• Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex.
• The community pavilion at the Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex.
• City of Waterloo Museum.
• Albert McCormick Community Centre.
• RIM Park Manulife Sportsplex and Healthy Living Centre.
• Waterloo City Centre.

Each facility is equipped with two backpacks.

"We definitely saw a need in the community that very quickly came to our attention when people found out about the bags. So we're really excited to see how they can benefit people," Riediger said.