Chuck E. Cheese Adds A New Twist To Sensory Friendly

In recent years, many venues have taken steps to become more welcoming to people with autism and other disabilities. Now, Chuck E. Cheese is expanding its sensory-friendly offerings to birthday parties.

The children’s entertainment center says that starting this month it will offer “Sensory Sensitive Birthdays.”

The option will include all of the staples of a traditional Chuck E. Cheese birthday party, but allow families to opt in or out of what they call “key sensory elements” such as singing “Happy Birthday” or having a visit from Chuck E.

“As the ‘Birthday Capital of the Universe,’ we believe every child deserves a birthday they’ll never forget, on their own terms,” said Scott Drake, president and CEO of CEC Entertainment, which owns and operates Chuck E. Cheese. “Sensory Sensitive Birthdays bring that belief to life, creating a more inclusive celebration where every child can feel seen, supported and celebrated.”

Chuck E. Cheese already offers special sensory-friendly hours on the first Sunday of each month. So-called “Sensory Sensitive Sunday” events are held at locations nationwide and feature trained staff, dimmed lights, reduced noise and a calmer atmosphere.

The new birthday party option will be offered during these designated sensory-friendly times, the company said.