Sensory Backpack Program
Sensory backpacks are available to borrow free of charge at the Farida & Ally Esmail & Family Guest Services Centre to support comfort and accessibility during your visit.
Museums are vibrant places filled with movement, sound, and light. While these qualities can make a museum visit exciting, they may sometimes feel overwhelming for neurodivergent visitors — including people on the autism spectrum and those with sensory processing needs. At the Aga Khan Museum, we are committed to creating an environment where everyone can explore, learn, and connect at their own pace, in a way that feels safe, welcoming, and supportive.
To support this goal, we are piloting sensory backpacks and social narratives. These resources are designed to make the Museum more predictable and accessible for those who benefit from structured tools and reduced sensory stressors. This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to accessibility and inclusion, guided by best practices in Canadian cultural institutions and informed by community feedback.
Sensory backpacks are available to borrow free of charge at the Farida & Ally Esmail & Family Guest Services Centre.
Social Narratives (Pre-Visit and On-Site)
Our social narratives are step-by-step visual guides that walk visitors through the entire Museum experience — from arrival to departure — so they know what to expect before and during their visit. This can help reduce uncertainty, ease transitions, and make the visit more enjoyable and predictable.
Each narrative includes:
- Photos and clear descriptions of key locations, such as the entrance, security screening, coat check, galleries, café, washrooms, and quiet spaces.
- Information about sensory aspects of each area (for example, which spaces are typically louder or busier, and where visitors can take a break).
- What to expect during special experiences, like exhibitions or events, to prepare visitors for possible crowds or changes in lighting and sound.
- Simple steps for asking for help, such as where to find staff and what they can assist with
Narratives are available as:
- Downloadable PDFs (different versions for adults and families with children)
- Plain-language and large-print formats to ensure accessibility
These narratives are updated regularly to reflect any changes to Museum spaces and procedures. By offering them online, visitors can review the information in advance, plan their route, and prepare any additional support they may need.
Sensory Backpacks
Our sensory backpacks are available free of charge for the duration of your visit and can be borrowed from the Admissions desk. They are thoughtfully designed to support regulation and comfort for visitors of all ages who experience sensory sensitivities.
Each backpack contains:
- Noise-reducing headphones to soften loud or sudden sounds.
- Sunglasses or a visor to reduce the impact of bright lighting or visual overstimulation.
- Fidget items such as stress balls or textured objects to provide calming tactile input.
- Visual supports, including “first–then” boards, choice cards, and an “I need a break” card to support communication and routine.
- Drawing pad for visual expression.
- A small timer to help pace activities or transitions between spaces.
- A quick-use guide describing each item and suggesting ways to use them effectively.
- Sanitation Materials
Each backpack also includes a mini survey (available in paper form and via QR code). We invite visitors to share their experience using the backpack and tell us what items were most helpful. This feedback is anonymous and will be used to improve the program, update the contents, and ensure it continues to meet visitor needs.
How to Borrow a Sensory Backpack
Policy and Procedures
Purpose
The Aga Khan Museum provides sensory backpacks to support visitors with sensory processing differences, including people with autism, and anyone who may benefit from sensory regulation tools. This program is part of our commitment to making the Museum accessible, inclusive, and welcoming for all visitors.
Availability
- Number of Backpacks: We currently have 5 backpacks available for use.
- Advance Booking: Reservations are strongly encouraged, particularly for groups, as backpacks are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Capacity Planning: Teachers, group leaders, and organizations serving neurodivergent visitors are encouraged to notify us in advance when multiple backpacks are needed so we can plan accordingly.
Reservation Requirements
Visitors must reserve backpacks at least 48 hours in advance by emailing learn@agakhanmuseum.org with:
- Name of visitor or group leader
- Date of visit and expected arrival time
- Number of backpacks requested
- Phone number
Digital copies of the Museum’s Social Narratives can also be requested to prepare for the visit in advance.
Pick-Up and Return
- Check-In: Pick up reserved backpacks at the Farida & Ally Esmail & Family Guest Services Centre.
- Deposit: Leave a valid photo ID (or other acceptable item such as a membership card) with Admissions staff. The ID will be securely held until the backpack is returned.
- Use: Visitors may use the backpack contents throughout their visit.
- Return: Backpacks must be returned to the Guest Services Centre before leaving the Museum in order to collect the ID.
Conditions of Use
- Visitors are responsible for the backpack and its contents during their visit.
- All items must be returned in good condition. Any missing or damaged items may result in a request for reimbursement or temporary suspension of borrowing privileges.
- Backpacks are cleaned, inspected, and restocked after each use to maintain hygiene and readiness for future visitors.
- For group visits, backpacks are issued to the teacher or group leader, who is responsible for returning all borrowed items before departure.
Privacy
Personal identification left as a deposit will be stored securely and returned immediately upon the return of the backpack. No personal information will be recorded beyond what is necessary for the reservation and deposit process.
We acknowledge the support of the Canada Council for the Arts.
