Philadelphia Family Court Introduces Groundbreaking Sensory Room for Neurodivergent Children
Philadelphia, PA – Navigating a courthouse can be an intimidating experience for most individuals, but for children on the autism spectrum, the environment can be particularly overwhelming. In an effort to create a more accommodating atmosphere, the Philadelphia Family Court has launched an innovative initiative that prioritizes the needs of neurodivergent youth. The newly established sensory room is a pioneering development, marking a crucial step towards improving the courtroom experience for children with autism.
Located on the second floor of the Family Court building, this sensory room is designed with calming features, including dimmed lighting and minimal noise, alongside a selection of soothing toys. Prior to the introduction of this facility, children on the spectrum visiting the courthouse had no access to specialized services or supportive measures during what could be a distressing process. “Previously, there were no options available; unfortunately, it often led to a disturbing outcome,” remarked Justice Kevin Dougherty of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.
Justice Dougherty’s commitment to this initiative was ignited by a personal encounter he had during a court session involving a 14-year-old boy with Asperger’s syndrome. The mother’s disclosure about her son’s condition left him with a newfound understanding of the challenges faced by neurodivergent children in legal settings. With recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicating that 1 in 31 children is diagnosed with autism, the need for reform in the court system has become increasingly urgent. “On any given day, we manage nearly 600 active cases involving individuals with autism,” Justice Dougherty noted.
The sensory room initiative was brought to life last fall through a collaboration with Jefferson Health, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary support in enhancing the experiences of neurodivergent individuals. Creadell Webb, the Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer, highlighted the room’s design as a sanctuary where children can find solace. “This space allows children to engage in calming motions, which can be soothing and therapeutic.”
When the time comes to enter the courtroom, staff have been trained to offer specialized support. Judge Walter Olszewski, the Administrative Judge of the Philadelphia Family Court, emphasized the importance of recognizing that some behaviors might stem from anxiety rather than disrespect. He urged staff to provide additional time and understanding to families in need.
As Pennsylvania stands at the forefront of making courthouses more accessible for individuals with autism, the initiatives stemming from Philadelphia’s Family Court are setting a benchmark for other counties to aspire to. The establishment of the sensory room represents not just a physical space, but a cultural shift towards inclusivity within the legal system, ensuring that children on the autism spectrum are treated with the care and compassion they deserve.
The success of Philadelphia’s initiative could lead to broader implementation across the state and the nation, paving the way for enhanced accessibility and support in courtrooms nationwide.
