24 Jan Museum’s Sensory Saturday program welcomes all

The North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport wants everyone to feel welcome. That’s one of the reasons its one-year-old Sensory Saturday program will continue in 2020.

“We’re trying to make sure that no matter where you are or who you are, you can come and enjoy the museum,” Education Curator Katy Menne said. “We’re trying to make the museum as inclusive as possible.”

Sensory Saturday is offered the first Saturday of each month from 9 to 11 a.m. at the museum, located at 204 E. Moore St. in downtown Southport. During that time, the lights are dimmed, and the audio throughout the museum is turned off. The monthly drop-in program also features a craft — part of Menne’s focus on adding more hands-on experiences.

During the February program, “Valen-Slime,” which will be held Feb. 1, participants will measure ingredients, add red food coloring for that Valentine’s Day touch and then mix to create their slime. Volunteers and staff will be available to assist as much — or as little — as needed.

Those who are less sensitive to external stimuli are, of course, welcome to participate. Museum staff just asks that they use quiet voices and be mindful of the other patrons during Sensory Saturdays.

“The program is totally free and another way anybody can come experience the museum,” Menne said, noting that advance registration is not required. “Even if your child isn’t on the spectrum, you can still come.”

For more information on Sensory Saturday or other museum programming, call 910-477-5151.