05/01/2026
We want as many people as possible to enjoy public events for as long as they would like to. With this in mind, Cross Plains Rec and the Lions Club are co-hosting a sensory tent during Trout Days. It will be located along the Mill Creek Parkway near the craft and civic organization fair.
What is a sensory tent? Some people feel overwhelmed by crowds, noises, scents, and other sensory input. This overwhelming feeling may cause someone to feel:
- incredibly anxious
- physically ill
- like crying or screaming
- shut down and unable to easily interact with the environment
The sensory tent is a quieter, dimmer space for someone to get away from the crowd. Toys, pillows, or blankets can help people regulate their system so they feel better able to rejoin the event or get through the crowd to go home.
Who can use the space? Anyone. You do NOT need a diagnosis, disability, or condition to use the space. If you would feel better after some time away from all of the activity, you are welcome to use the space.
If you are interested in volunteering for an hour or so to answer questions and help keep the space ready for anyone who needs it, contact Jill, the Rec Coordinator at [email protected]
[Alt Text for Screen Readers: A flyer with the Cross Plains Parks and Rec and the Lions Club logos at the top reads -
A sensory tent is a public space designed to give people who need a quieter, less stimulating space away from crowds and noise to go to help them decompress and get more regulated. We hope this space allows families and individuals to stay longer at this event.
This is shared space, so we ask:
Anyone ill or injured should go to the EMS tent.
Use the ADA accessible porta potties to change diapers or clothing. There are also public bathrooms located in some of the businesses along Mill Creek Parkway.
We have sensory toys here as tool to help people regulate. It is not intended as a play space.
Anyone requiring a caregiver to safely participate in today’s event also needs a caregiver present with them in this space.
Children under the age of 10 must have a responsible caregiver with them while in this space.
Leave this area the same or better than you found it.
Everyone has different ways to regulate their system - your way may look different from someone else’s. This is a safe space for all and we expect people here to be respected and respectful.
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