Tourism Squamish has unveiled two programs to make the destination more accessible for visitors with hidden disabilities and neurodivergent experiences, as part of a growing shift in how the community approaches inclusion.
In a press release, the organization announced free Neurodiverse Explorer Packs for kids and the adoption of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower symbol at the Squamish Adventure Centre and Visitor Centre. The programs target visitors with sensory sensitivities, autism, ADHD, and other non-visible disabilities — needs that are “often overlooked in traditional accessibility planning,” according to the press release.
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The Explorer Packs, available to borrow for up to two weeks at no cost, include noise-reducing headphones, earplugs, and fidget toys. The kits were developed with input from local occupational therapist Tara-Leigh Cain of Play in Motion.
The Sunflower symbol, launched globally in 2016, signals that a wearer may have a non-visible disability and could benefit from extra support or patience. The press release noted that the symbol is now recognized across tourism, transportation, retail, healthcare, and government sectors worldwide. Staff at the Adventure Centre have been trained on the symbol and best practices for supporting affected visitors.
“With one in five Canadians identifying as having a disability, it’s important that our destination continues to evolve,” said Nikki Johnston, Tourism Squamish’s Communications and Stakeholder Relations Manager. She cited Destination BC research indicating that uncertainty is among the biggest barriers for neurodivergent travellers.
