Borrow a sensory backpack
Sign out a free sensory backpack while visiting city facilities.
What’s inside
While available to all, sensory backpacks are designed to support people with sensory processing needs when they're visiting city facilities.
Each backpack includes tools to:
- reduce sensory input – sunglasses, noise-cancelling headphones
- increase sensory input – fidget tools, chair band
- support self-regulation and communication – Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), timer, drawing pad
How to sign a sensory backpack out
Sensory backpacks are available for all ages, but you must be 13 or older to sign one out.
Sign out a sensory back at the customer service desk:
- Albert McCormick Community Centre
- RIM Park Manulife Sportsplex & Healthy Living Centre
- Waterloo Memorial Recreation Complex and Community Pavilion
- City of Waterloo Museum
- City Hall
You can use backpacks as long as you need to, but they must stay in the facility.