Walmart announced this week that it will begin offering sensory-friendly hours in its stores from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. daily. Sensory-friendly hours begin Saturday.
Retailers say their stores will be less stimulating during this time. During this time, retailers turn off the radio, dim the lights whenever possible, and switch the television to still images.
Walmart tested the project during the back-to-school season on Saturdays in July and August. The company said it received positive feedback from customers and employees.
“From in-person conversations, emails, listening sessions, social media, and personal experience in our stores, we have seen what these changes mean for our customers and employees. “We continue to welcome feedback on how we can enhance these and are taking sensory-friendly measures in our stores,” Walmart said.
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In a press release, several Walmart employees discussed the impact this decision will have on their families.
“Several employees have expressed a desire to continue this program throughout the year.We have employees in our stores with disabilities such as autism and ADHD; He commented that this is the first time the company has done something just for him.I know I can do it.”This program helps everyone maintain a little calm during the stressful holiday season. We hope it continues,” said Tyler Morgan, store manager at Wal-Mart Pennsylvania.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 5.4 million adults in the United States live with autism. Additionally, 1 in 36 children in the United States lives with autism, the CDC says.
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