Neurodiverse Explorer Pack
Accessible Squamish: Neurodiverse Explorer Pack & Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Programs
Squamish is committed to being an inclusive and welcoming destination for all visitors, including neurodivergent individuals and their families. To support meaningful experiences for everyone, Tourism Squamish is excited to introduce the Neurodiverse Explorer Pack Program, designed to help visitors feel comfortable, supported, and welcome while exploring Squamish.
In addition, the Squamish Adventure Centre is now a Sunflower-friendly location, signaling that staff at the Visitor Centre are trained to provide understanding and assistance to individuals with sensory sensitivities and hidden disabilities.
Visit the Squamish Adventure Centre & Visitor Centre to borrow a Neurodiverse Explorer Pack and experience Squamish with confidence and comfort.
How It Works
- Pick-Up Location: Neurodiverse Explorer Packs can be borrowed from the Squamish Adventure Centre.
- Loan Period: Borrow a backpack for your visit, then return it at the end of your stay. Sign-out a backpack by providing your name, phone number and indicate the date you will return it. Maximum loan time is two weeks.
- Easy Returns: Simply return the backpack to the Visitor Centre when you’re finished. Visitor Centre staff will assist you with the process.
- Hygiene: Backpack contents are sanitized between uses.
What’s Inside the Neurodiverse Explorer Pack
Each backpack is thoughtfully equipped to support sensory-friendly exploration:
- Noise-reducing headphones for children
- Disposable ear plugs for adults
- Fidget toys and other tools to support sensory regulation
- Weighted stuffed animal for compression comfort
- Sand timer to help little ones with transitions
- Sunflower symbol wrist bands and pins to indicate someone has a hidden disability
- A create-your-own photo album with photos of local attractions to help young ones know what to expect before their visit
Tourism Squamish partnered with Tara-Leigh Cain, Clinic Director and Occupational Therapist at Play in Motion, to hand-pick the items inside each backpack.
Why Use a Neurodiverse Explorer Pack?
Visiting new environments can sometimes be overwhelming for neurodivergent individuals or those with hidden disabilities. These backpacks provide practical tools and resources to:
- Reduce barriers in busy or unfamiliar spaces
- Encourage self-regulation and positive experiences
- Foster confidence and comfort during your visit
- Highlight Squamish as an inclusive destination for all
Learn About the Sunflower Symbol
The Sunflower Symbol is recognized internationally as a discreet way to indicate that someone may need additional support or understanding due to a hidden disability. Staff trained in the Sunflower program are available at the Visitor Centre and participating locations to offer assistance and ensure your visit is smooth and enjoyable.
For more information about accessibility in Squamish, visit the Accessibility page.