Autism-Friendly Activities in
Maryland
D-fit+
Inclusive Fitness Center
Fitness Center, complete with pool, therapy pool, elevator, cardio room... all sensory friendly!
D-fit+
2150 New Castle Avenue
New Castle, DE 19720
Lucky And Blessed Fishing
Fishing Adventure Buddy or Mentor
Our mission is to connect intellectually, physically and life challenged individuals with a Fishing Adventure Buddy or Mentor that will build relationships through local fishing excursions with a goal of sharing life changing and healing experiences. These trips can be to the local pond for bank fishing, on a boat out in the Bay catching a number of different species (Rockfish is one of our favs) and if our Mentee is able, we will take them out Kayak fishing! While on these Adventures, our Mentors will be sharing the beauty of nature while teaching about different fish species, fish conservation and the basics of fishing. The best part is the time and care shared as the Fishing Adventure becomes so much more than just fishing!
All LABF Anglers are fully insured and very experienced Guides, Charter Captains and Professional Anglers that will take all the proper safety precautions! They will also provide Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs) while participating, so our Mentees are always safe on and around the water. Now everyone can have an opportunity to be Lucky and Blessed by Fishing Adventure Mentoring!
Claymont Public Library
Sensory Story Time Program
Interactive stories, songs, and movement activities in an intimate environment specially designed for children that would benefit from sensory experiences. The program is geared towards children of preschool age but all children and families are welcome.
Tickets given out 30 minutes prior to the start of the program on a first-come, first-served basis. Ages 4 and up with caregiver.
Claymont Public Library
400 Lenape Way
Claymont, DE 19703
People's Light
Sensory Relaxed Theater Performances
From their website: "Relaxed Performances provide a welcoming environment that lets all our patrons express themselves freely, without judgment or inhibition.
These live theatre experiences invite and encourage individuals with autism, ADD, ADHD, dementia and sensory sensitivities to enjoy the performance in our “shush-free” zone.
Relaxed performances for 2018-19 include:
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Cinderella: A Musical Panto – December 29 at 2pm (This performance also includes American Sign Language interpretation)
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Pre-Performance Materials:
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Nina Simone: Four Women – March 31 at 2pm
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Our Town – August 23 at 7:30pm
Performance adjustments include:
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House lights will remain on at a low level in the theatre during the performance
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Lower sound levels, especially for startling or loud sounds
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A reduction of startling and/or strobe lighting
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Freedom to talk, vocalize, and leave seats during the performance as needed
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Space available throughout the theatre for standing and movement
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Limited crowds and visitors through the theatre lobby during the day and time of the performance
We invite you to bring noise-cancelling headphones, fidget and stress sensory toys, and/or anything else you may need to ensure maximum comfort and safety.
If you would like to recommend a specific accommodation at People’s Light, please notify our Director of Community Investment, Marcie Bramucci at bramucci@peopleslight.org or 610.647.1900 Ext. 143
Resources available before and during the performance:
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A quiet area will be provided in the theatre lobby with bean bag chairs, space, and other materials to relax as needed
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Fidget and stress sensory toys will be available to borrow
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People's Light staff, who have been trained to be inviting and accommodating to families' needs, will be available throughout the theatre and the lobby
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Disposable ear plugs
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Pre-show preparation materials will be available online as the performance date approaches to help prepare all attendees for the experience of visiting People's Light and attending these performances."
Visit the links above for locations, tickets, and additional information.
The Grand
Sensory-Friendly Family Programming
Sensory-Friendly Family Programming welcomes children of all ages with autism or other sensory, social, or learning disabilities to enjoy the experience of live entertainment together with their families in a safe and comfortable environment. These performances are made possible by Next Generation-North of the Delaware Community Foundation and DFRC, in partnership with Autism Delaware and Easterseals. The following accommodations are intended to help reduce stress and anxiety for our audience:
FLEXIBLE HOUSE RULES – Audience members are greeted by a relaxed attitude toward noise and moving about during the show. Limited crowd sizes and an open seating arrangement allow patrons to find a place in the theater where they are most comfortable. Wheelchair seating is available. Please notify the box office at time of purchase. Use of tablets, smart phones, and other electronic devices can be used with headphones during the performance. Fidget toys are welcome, and noise-cancelling headphones will be available. Doors to the theater open one hour before show time. If cancellation is necessary, a refund will be provided up to 48 hours following the performance. Unused tickets must be presented to the box office. Please call 302-652-5577 for more details.
MODEST PRODUCTION VALUES – Lighting remains on at a low level during the performance. Sound is kept at comfortable levels with no sudden, loud noises.
QUIET SPACE – The Wesler Room, accessible by the main lobby stairs or elevator, is available for patrons who may need a break from the performance. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
PRIMING ACTIVITIES – A downloadable Social Story will help patrons prepare for their visit to the theater. Personal tours may be available upon request prior to the day of the show. Please call 302-658-7897 ext. 3300 for more information.
TRAINED STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS – The Grand’s Show Corps is trained to accommodate families’ needs.
GENDER-NEUTRAL AND FAMILY RESTROOMS are always available.
The Grand
818 N. Market Street
Wilmington, DE 19801
National Chains That May Have Sensory-Friendly Activities in Your Area:
Glass Slipper Initiative
Summer Art Paradise
Join Glass Slipper Initiative and Friends of Children with Special Needs for a free accommodating online art event for children with disabilities! It will be on July 22nd from 10 AM to 12 PM, where we'll have multiple stations for different crafts for any skill level. All you'll need is paper, scissors, and some coloring supplies! Sign up at bit.ly/GSI-Summer. If you can't make the event, but you'd like to be notified about other ones in the future, go to glassslipperinitiative.org and click "sign up" to join our mailing list for future events and opportunities for your kids.
RockonMusic School
RockonMusic Lessons
Use the positive power of music to learn to play instruments, sing and create. Each one-on-one session is tailored to the individual's skills and motivations. I specialize in those impacted by autism or other disabilities. Live Westchester & Putnam Counties, NY and on Zoom, anywhere....since 2016.
RockonMusicSchool
Proud to Be Me
Free Dance Therapy Classes for Children with Developmental Disabilities!
This dance class is designed for elementary and middle schoolers with any intellectual, developmental, or sensory impairments! Our beginner-level dance and movement classes currently take place through Zoom and provide a fun outlet for children to let out energy and meet new people. The free class is also designed to help refine and improve things like motor skills, concentration, social/communication abilities, and general happiness.
More information on website (linked above).
Proud to Be Me
Alamo Theatre
Alamo for All
From their website: "Welcome to Alamo for All - a movie program for young families and guests with special needs. All shows starting before 2 pm on Tuesdays follow Alamo for All rules, with more shows on the weekends. Schedule may vary during holidays. At sensory-friendly Alamo for All shows,
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Lights are turned up and sound is turned down
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All ages are welcome (including infants)
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Talking and noise is allowed and guests can move around
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Latecomers are admitted
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Adaptive technology is welcome (but no other electronics, please)
Bought a ticket to an Alamo for All show by mistake? No problem! Contact the theater and we'll be glad to refund or exchange your ticket for another show.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
We Rock the Spectrum Kid's Gym
The Gym for All Kids
From their website: "We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gyms was founded to provide a place for children of all ability levels to play and grow together. As the only kids gym that offers an inclusive philosophy we have found all children can benefit from our uniquely designed sensory equipment that is specifically designed to aid children with sensory processing disorders. However, in our experience, all children are able to benefit greatly from this equipment and by allowing children of all ability levels to play together they are able to learn a great deal from each other and become the best motivation for success on every level.
Our Gym Includes:
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Suspended equipment with swings – for balance and vestibular treatment
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Crash mats and crash pillows – for fun, motor planning, and strength
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Zip line – for stress release and joint and body relaxation
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Trampoline – for building leg and core strength
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Indoor play structure – for climbing and increasing playground skills
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Sensory-based toys – for improved auditory processing and fine motor skills
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Fine Motor and Arts and Crafts Area – for improved hand-eye coordination"
Check the link above for locations.
Autism Eats
Autism Friendly Dining
From their webpage: Providing autism-friendly non-judgmental environments for family dining, socializing and connecting with others who share similar joys and challenges. ALL behaviors are welcomed!
Check the website above for restaurants and dates!
Cobb Theatres
Sensory Friendly Films
Sensory Friendly showings provide families with varying abilities the opportunity to enjoy a family friendly film where kids can be kids in a safe and accepting environment. The auditoriums are made comfortable by brighter lights and the sound level is turned down. The audience is encouraged to be themselves and interact with the movie, while having fun without the worry of disturbing others. Dance, sing and enjoy the show!!!
All shows will begin at 10am local time. Films, dates and program are subject to change. Tickets are available in person only the Wednesday prior to each showing.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
Marcus Theaters
REEL MOVIES FOR Real Needs
A Special Showing for Families and Individuals with Special Needs. We understand that sometimes it is difficult or uncomfortable for families with special needs children to attend movies together.
Marcus Theatres Reel Movies for Reel Needs is a specially designed program to serve families with special needs such as autism or other challenges, who seldom attend movies. Reel Movies for Real Needs creates a welcoming and comfortable environment – lower sound, lights up – where families with children who need accommodations will be able to share the experience of seeing family friendly films at a theatre.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
Urban Air Adventure Park
Sensory Friendly Jump
NEW sensory friendly jump time for our special needs community only, every First Sunday of the month from 10am-12n (time/date varies per location).
No flashing lights, no whistles, low music level, and less crowded. We invite you and your families to join us! Reduced rates available (varies per location). Open to sensory-sensitive individuals, their siblings and care-givers only.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
Studio Movie Grill
Sensory Friendly Screenings
A pillar of SMG’s Outreach since 2003, our monthly Special Needs Screenings are designed for families raising children with special needs. Special Needs Screenings are shown with the lights up and the volume lowered and children are free to move around, talk, or even dance in the aisles during the movie.
The sensory friendly screenings are free for children with special needs and their siblings. Adult tickets are available at before-noon price. There are no advance ticket sales. Parental guidance is always suggested.
Special Needs Screenings are shown at 11:00am at all SMG locations except EpiCentre. SMG Downey, Monrovia and Redlands look forward to offering our special needs screening program in the near future. We are currently in process of installing new seating and will subsequently undergo remodeling to our full concept. These locations will offer special needs screenings as soon as this work has been completed.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
Regal Cinemas
My Way Matinee
Sensory friendly movie screenings with sounds lower, lights brighter.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
AMC Theaters
Sensory Friendly Films
AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! Our Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday (family-friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month. Please check your local theatre listings for specific showtimes, and don't forget to share your family fun with #AMCSensoryFriendly.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
Major Airports
Wings for Autism®/Wings for All®
Wings for Autism®/Wings for All® are airport “rehearsals” specially designed for individuals with autism spectrum disorders and individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities. The programs are designed to alleviate the stress that families who have a child with autism or intellectual/developmental disabilities experience when flying. It provides families the opportunity to practice entering the airport, obtaining boarding passes, going through security and boarding a plane. Airport, airline, Transportation Security Administration professionals, and other personnel also have the opportunity to observe, interact, and deliver their services in a structured learning environment.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
Sky Zone
Sensory Hours
Enjoy the freedom of jumping. Sensory hours provide a quieter, toned-down jumping experience for those with special needs.
Check the link above for dates and locations.
Chuck E. Cheese
Sensory Sensitive Sundays
Chuck E. Cheese's is proud to support families who have children with autism and special needs. We now offer a sensory-friendly experience on the first Sunday of every month. Our trained and caring staff is there to make sure each guest has a fun filled visit. The Sensory Sensitive Sundays experience includes:
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Less crowding and noise
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Dimmed lighting
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Show and music turned off or down
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Limited appearances by Chuck E.
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Food and games are offered
Check the link above for dates and locations.
iFly
All Abilities Night
All Abilities Night at iFLY is a unique event that makes the dream of flight a reality for those in the special needs community. This program has been custom designed for those with physical and cognitive challenges to create an environment of support and inclusion, while focusing on making what seems impossible, possible.
Check the link above for dates and locations.