Tinley Mom, PTA Board Lead Efforts To Create Sensory Zones At School Events

TINLEY PARK, IL — A Tinley Park mom is leading efforts to create a sensory space for those children and families in need during school events.

Ashley Patrick, whose 7-year-old daughter was diagnosed with autism, has collected donations to provide sensory accommodations at Memorial School events—a space that can provide respite and comfort for those overwhelmed.

Patrick—who joined the Memorial PTA last year and this year leads as president—said the board is supporting her mission.

"Last year I joined because I wanted to try to make things a little bit more inclusive, but also let the parents that I do know in the school that have kids like Gabbi, that there’s someone who understands and supports," Patrick said.

Patrick has collected items including fidget spinners, headphones, a bubble machine and more, that can enable neurodiverse children to attend—or stay—at an event.

"We understand that some families face challenges that others may not see," the PTA board said on social media.

"Sometimes, attending an event can mean choosing between leaving early because things become overwhelming or having a quiet space where your child can take a break, regroup, and feel comfortable enough to enjoy the experience.

"We want to help change that. Our goal is to create an environment where every child and every family feels that they have a place in our school community. Inclusion isn’t just about inviting everyone; it’s about making sure everyone has the opportunity to participate in a way that works for them."

Patrick said it's something she's experienced personally with her daughter.

"There have been several events I don’t take Gabbi to, or we’ve just missed out because I know it would be overwhelming," Patrick said. "We wanted to let everyone know: everyone here is welcome."

Patrick shared a wishlist of some items, and the school community quickly delivered.

"My wish list cleared out in a couple of days," Patrick said. "Once we started telling people the idea, they jumped on it."

She's grateful for the support, and excited to see what's to come. The school offered its first sensory space at a trunk or treat event on Oct. 29.

"I understand that coming to an event means you leaving because it’s too much, or having a safe space for you to regroup, or your kids to regroup," Patrick said.

"We’re encouraging you to come—everyone gets to come. I want my neurotypical child to get to experience this, too, but I know it might be too much for my neurodivergent child to experience.

"I want everyone to know that it’s OK that there are differences."

Patrick said that while many of their wishlist items have been donated, they're still seeking small stuffed animals, weighted lap pads and feeling cards.

"We’re going to be doing this at every big event that we have, because everyone deserves to be part of the community," Patrick said. "I love our school. It’s always been super-welcoming. Everybody accepted here, accepted as family. I also wanted to pay it forward, make other families coming in know that this is here—there’s so many resources here."

Patrick emphasized that the PTA board is united in this effort.

"We enjoy giving back, and making the school experience great for everybody," Patrick said. "It's a great group effort."

The underlying mission is to build on inclusivity within the school community.

"It’s OK to be kind to each other and be inclusive," Patrick said. " It’s just to let everyone know that they’re wanted, welcome and included. Give them space to take a break, regroup, stay and have a good time.

"We're trying to make memories for everybody, every student, and everybody there."

Anyone interested in contributing items for Memorial School's sensory space can email PTA Board President Ashley Patrick at ashley@memorialpta.org.