Support from Safeco Insurance has enabled Pacific Science Center to open early from 8 – 10 a.m. and provide free entry for families affected by autism spectrum disorder. During the event, accommodations are made for sensory-sensitive guests, including softened general lighting and decreased noise level and visual stimulation on interactive exhibits whenever possible. In addition, Science Center staff provide facilitated experiences for guests at the Puget Sound Tide Pool, in the Willard Smith Planetarium, and on the Live Science Stage. Safeco Insurance funding also provided for staff training
Evaluation of the "Making Sense" Art-Science workshop jointly sponsored by ARTLAB+ at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden and the National Museum of Natural History Q?rius youth program. Findings reiterate 2015 findings that youth experience the art-science integration as interdisciplinary and as such, arts-oriented students become more interested in and find a safe environment for studying science. Students who experience the integration as substantive discover a place for creativity in steps in the scientific process. The program also functions as an entree into both more intense youth