Going to the movies can be a magical experience and one that should be enjoyed by all. Last Friday, thanks to the autism advocacy group The Perfect Connection, six HISD students attended a free, sensory-friendly private screening of the newly released Disney-Pixar short film “Loop,” which follows the story of a non-verbal, autistic girl.

“We’ve partnered with some amazing vendors to premiere the Disney+ premiere of Loop,” Liza Bailey, founder of The Perfect Connection, said. “Through this movie, Disney has empowered the autism community by providing a wonderful example of autism representation in the media.”

Held in partnership with HISD’s Offices of Special Populations and Special Education, the sensory-friendly screening created a comfortable environment for students who are living with autism by showcasing a movie with reduced volumes, low lighting, and the freedom to move around.

More importantly, the evening provided an adaptive moviegoing experience in a comfortable and judgement-free setting.

“It is so important for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder to be able to come out and socialize and enjoy themselves and be who they are,” Dee Kelly-Basile, Program Specialist for HISD Autism Services, said. “It allows parents to be worry-free, and it is just a great experience for any child on the spectrum to be able to come out and be themselves.” For more information about Autism Services in HISD, visit https://www.houstonisd.org/Page/61465.