During the July school holidays, children and families from our Inner Eastern Melbourne Hub enjoyed an inclusive movie screening at Reading Cinemas Burwood.
The cinema environment was adjusted to accommodate different sensory preferences. The lights were dimmed rather than turned off completely, and the volume was lowered to help make the experience more comfortable and accessible.
Sensory items, fidget toys and colouring activities were also available throughout the screening. This gave each child more choice in how they experienced the movie, whether they preferred to sit and watch, use a sensory item or take part in another activity.
For one family, it was their first visit to a cinema participant.
“This was our first time at the movie cinemas, so it was very exciting and great that Everyday Independence provided this opportunity.”
The outing gave children and families an opportunity to take part in a community activity alongside others in an environment designed with different needs and preferences in mind.
It was wonderful to see each child engaging in a way that worked for them. The experience showed how thoughtful adjustments can reduce barriers and help more people feel comfortable participating in everyday community activities.
The event was organised by Zarrine and Tyler, team leaders from our Inner Eastern Melbourne Hub, as part of Everyday Independence’s Positive Change Push.
Seeing participants engage in the experience in ways that worked for them was a powerful reminder of why inclusive approaches matter. By making small but meaningful adjustments, we were able to create an environment where everyone could participate, feel accepted, and have fun.
Zarrine and Tyler, Team Leaders, Inner Eastern Melbourne Hub
The Positive Change Push supports our teams across Australia to create local projects that promote inclusion and challenge perceptions of disability.
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible Inner Eastern Melbourne change makers for creating more than just a day at the movies.
Through their thoughtful planning and commitment to inclusion, they created an experience that fostered confidence, connection, and community participation for the people we support.
Read more about our Positive Change Push initiatives and how our teams are supporting includes in communities across Australia.
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