The event, to be held on 29 March, will offer a browsing experience for families, enabling them to visit their local store in a relaxed environment and enjoy shopping with their children together. The event, planned in conjunction with the National Autistic Society (NAS) will allow families to browse the latest selection of toys and games in a subdued environment as recommended by the charity and other local groups across the country.
All stores will be inviting families to experience an environment more suited to their children’s needs. Reduced fluorescent lighting, no loud music or tannoy announcements and autism-friendly signage are some of the initiatives Toys R Us will be carrying out to ensure a more calming influence in-store.
Mike Coogan, Toys R Us marketing and e-commerce director, said: "We understand that bright lights, tall racks, strange smells, noises and unknown people can sometimes be daunting for children affected by autism, but an event like this allows lots of children and their families to visit our store together and enjoy the facilities and content of the store, the same as other children can do without concerns."
Alastair Graham, NAS marketing and fundraising director, said: "The NAS is really impressed by how Toys R Us has put together this UK-wide event in response to overwhelming interest from families.
"This is the second nationwide event of its kind in a growing and welcome trend of autism-friendly initiatives from retailers, theatres and others who recognise the importance of offering people with autism and their families’ access to experiences and services. We’re very pleased to have been able to help."
The autism-friendly browsing experience is taking place in every Toys R Us store with the exception of Belfast Castle Court and Bromley.
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