Welcome to The Red Kite Project, Chicago Children’s Theatre’s multi-sensory simulated adventure designed specifically for children affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder and their families, caregivers and educators!
Parents and educators of children on the autism spectrum often shy away from attending the theatre because of the behavioral expectations in place at such events.
Red Kite is different. While at a traditional live theatre experience, children are expected to sit still and keep quiet, at Red Kite kids are encouraged to move, laugh, talk, sing and interact with our specially trained teaching artists. The space at Red Kite is friendly to children on the autism spectrum, with plenty to touch, see and hear. Our theatrical designers have created a safe, inviting and awe-inspiring space where your child can experience interactive activities and so much more. This multi-sensory approach is unique and especially engaging for a child on the spectrum.
Our guides are specifically trained to be responsive to each child and will work to accommodate his or her specific sensitivities. Where traditional theatre might provoke anxiety as an unfamiliar experience, we provide a detailed Social Story in advance in order to better prepare your child to take an adventure with us.
We meet each child where they are and interact with them on their terms. No child is ever forced into a particular way of participating. In the past, children have elected to come and go from the room during the adventure. Some have preferred to observe from a distance and others wanted to hold onto a single prop for the entire time. Any choice made by a child at Red Kite is celebrated and accepted.
Red Kite is about providing your child or student with a meaningful shared theatrical experience where he or she can enjoy being a kid!
If you have any questions, please visit our website at theredkiteproject.org and see the section labeled “FAQs” or call our dedicated concierge at 773-227-0180 x 15.
We hope you’ll join us for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure!