Lakeshore to Host Sensory Friendly Skates

March 16, 2023 – Thanks to the Belle River District Minor Hockey Association, sensory friendly skate dates are coming to Lakeshore’s Atlas Tube Recreation Centre(ATRC) starting in April. 

According to Frank Jeney, Division Leader – Community Services, the inspiration for the sensory friendly programming came from Shari Fallon, Director of Events for the minor hockey club. 

As the mother of a neurodivergent child and a child with an intellectual disability, Fallon is attuned to recognizing specific types of challenges. 

“I have experienced inclusion gaps due to sensory processing challenges and ability to participate,” she says. “At a recent board meeting of the Belle River District Minor Hockey Association, there was a conversation about inclusion gaps and how as a hockey association we can help close those gaps.” 

The decision to offer ice time to individuals with intellectual, emotional, or development disabilities is one way to address the inclusion gap. 

“Skating rinks can be overwhelming places for people with sensory sensitivities because of the loud noises and bright lights. When Shari approached us with this idea, we were very excited to participate," says Jeney. “We are always looking for ways to expand recreational opportunities in our community and Shari’s idea allows us to provide rink programming for people who may not have participated in the past.”   

Small changes can make a difference for those with sensory sensitivities. During the sensory-friendly skate, the Atlas Tube Recreation Centre plans to dim its lights and reduce noise by asking skaters to speak softly. There will be fewer people in the rink and regular maintenance will be suspended during the skate. 

“The goal is to welcome individuals of all ages who are interested in fun and physical activity, while also giving them the opportunity to forge new friendships,” says Jeney. 

The first sensory friendly skates are free of charge. Participants must pre-register by calling 519-727-0470. Skate dates have been scheduled at the ATRC as follows: 

Mondays from April 3 to May 29 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM 
Fridays from April 21 to August 18 from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM (except May 5) 
Mondays from July 3 to August 14 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM