Last April, approximately 300 intrepid families with autistic children ascended to the observation deck of Toronto’s CN Tower — 346 metres (1,136 feet) above the ground — for a special low-sensory morning organized by Autism Ontario in collaboration with CN Tower and Variety Village. 

This marked the event’s second year, which has grown in popularity among families and with their partners, said Kim Tran, Outreach and Events Specialist at Autism Ontario. “There were definitely a lot of challenges when trying to plan an event like that. We had several meetings up until that very first event, and CN Tower staff were wonderful to work with.” 

Kim emphasized that Autism Ontario made a significant impact on the lives of families who might not have otherwise been able to afford the typically pricey admission to the CN Tower, whether for a low-sensory morning or any other visit. She explained that many families would have been hesitant, not just due to the cost but also because they were uncertain about how their children would react. “Since we were offering those tickets at a discounted rate, families were willing to give it a try — and it was successful.” 

Autism Ontario worked closely with CN Tower Management to create the event. Kim initially reached out to the landmark’s management about hosting an event to mark Autism Ontario’s 50th anniversary. The response of management and staff was phenomenal, she said. “They were accommodating and very nice to work with.”  During the tour, the tower’s manager even opened one of the hidden service elevators. “That’s something you don’t usually get to see.” 

The event featured lower lighting and a music-free environment. To avoid crowding, elevators were limited to small groups, and quiet spaces were made available for guests. Social narratives, serving as visual guides, were also provided, and Variety Village contributed special sensory kits. 

Autism Ontario gave the participants maps of Toronto, which the kids eagerly used to spot different points of interest. “They were able to use the maps and had their own scavenger hunt for places in Toronto. They were going, ‘Hey this is that street, and over here is that street, and that’s where that thing is.’” 

The weather for both events was ideal, with clear skies and stunning views. “The weather was clear; you could see Niagara Falls from where we were. The kids were so amazed that you could see the Billy Bishop airport, so we had a big group of people at one portion of the window just watching the airplanes take off and land.” 

“The families were so grateful,” says Kim. “A lot of them came up to me while I was at the event and told me what an amazing experience they had. They didn’t have to worry if they couldn’t stay long enough. Without Autism Ontario, they told me they weren’t able to afford it. Because we were there, they could enjoy themselves.”