Taking kids shopping is a struggle for most parents, but for those whose children have autism the music, lights and announcements can make it near impossible.
So to help make life easier for these families, Toys R Us decided to hold a “quiet hour” on Sunday in all UK stores to make it easier on those who have autism.
The store opened early, dimmed the lights, switched off the music, didn’t make any tannoy announcements, used autism-friendly signage and even created quiet zones within the store.
Not surprisingly, everyone was quick to sing the store well-deserved praises: “Well done Toys R Us! You Rock! Such a meaningful and much appreciated thing to do. Definitely leading the way in retail innovation! See you there! [sic]”
@toysrusuk well done for supporting #autism x
— Hey Mummy (@heymummytv) November 7, 2016
However, while plenty of people thought it was a fantastic idea, others were quick to question why the event was only one hour long in the shops.
“Although I think this is a fab idea, one hour is that it!? And what, only one event....as a mother of an autistic child (shopping is a nightmare) I don't no why you are bothering[sic],” wrote one mum, while another said: “An hour is just about long enough for one tantrum for our son.”
