The Toronto Blue Jays have recently made headlines with their new additions to the Rogers Centre – a sensory room and an infant-feeding room. These new facilities are part of the team’s efforts to make the stadium more inclusive and welcoming to all fans, regardless of their needs.
The sensory room is designed to provide a calming and comfortable environment for fans who may become overwhelmed by the noise and crowds of the stadium. It features dim lighting, comfortable seating, and a variety of sensory tools such as weighted blankets, noise-cancelling headphones, and fidget toys. The room is staffed by trained volunteers who can assist fans in need and provide a safe space for them to take a break from the excitement of the game.
The infant-feeding room is another important addition to the Rogers Centre, providing a private and comfortable space for parents to breastfeed or bottle-feed their babies. The room is equipped with comfortable seating, changing tables, and a sink for washing bottles. It is located near the family washrooms, making it easy for parents to access while still being close to the action on the field.
These new additions are part of a larger trend towards making sports stadiums more inclusive and accessible to all fans. Many teams are recognizing the importance of accommodating fans with disabilities, sensory sensitivities, or other special needs. In addition to sensory rooms and infant-feeding rooms, some stadiums are also offering wheelchair-accessible seating, sign language interpreters, and audio descriptions for fans with visual impairments.
The Toronto Blue Jays have received widespread praise for their efforts to create a more inclusive stadium experience. Fans with disabilities or sensory sensitivities can now enjoy the excitement of the game without feeling overwhelmed or excluded. Parents with young children can also feel more comfortable attending games knowing that they have a private space to feed and care for their babies.
Overall, the addition of a sensory room and infant-feeding room at the Rogers Centre is a positive step towards creating a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all fans. It is a reminder that sports are for everyone, and that teams have a responsibility to ensure that their stadiums are accessible and accommodating to all members of the community.
