Autism-Friendly Activities in
Ohio
Holden Forests & Gardens: Cleveland Botanical Garden and Holden Arboretum
Museum with Sensory Kits, Quiet Spaces, Advance Ticket Sales, Social Stories
Holden Forests & Gardens has partnered with KultureCity® to enhance our ability to assist and accommodate guests with sensory needs. Our goal is to provide an inclusive experience for all guests during all events. We strive to raise awareness of the needs and challenges faced by individuals with sensory processing needs by supplying our staff with annual training and by offering the resources and accommodations below to our guests.
KultureCity® Sensory bags containing special KCVIP badges, a feeling thermometer/communication card, fidget tools, and noise-canceling headphones are available for checkout at the Guest Services desks at both campuses. We have also labeled areas of our campus that may be particularly busy, loud, or overwhelming as Headphone Zones and areas that are good places to rest and decompress as Quiet Areas. Keep an eye out for these during your visit or ask Guest Services to find out where these spaces are so you can plan your visit accordingly.
In addition, we offer advance ticket sale options to help streamline your arrival and social stories to help prepare you for your visit. If you prefer to have the social stories available to you during your visit, you can download the KultureCity mobile app on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Holden Forests & Gardens: Cleveland Botanical Garden
11030 East Blvd
Cleveland, OH 44106
and
Holden Forests & Gardens: Holden Arboretum
9550 Sperry Rd
Kirtland, OH 44094
Columbus Speech and Hearing
Halloween Hop
Ocotber 15th, 2022 at 11AM, 12PM or 1PM. We provide three different times slots to keep numbers low and sensory-friendly. Halloween Hop was developed to provide all children the opportunity to celebrate Halloween while working on verbal and social skills in a sensory-friendly environment.
Fun and Safe Activities:
Magician experienced in working with children with diverse abilities
Interactive musician to engage kids in communication
Halloween-themed crafts led by our speech-language pathologists and volunteers
Character Room to meet and take photos with
Quiet sensory room for families who need a break
Columbus Speech & Hearing
Graves Hall
333 W. 10 Ave.
Columbus, Ohio 43210
National Veterans Memorial and Museum
Sensory Saturday on July 23
The National Veterans Memorial and Museum is a KultureCity certified inclusive institution and we are happy to offer a sensory-friendly museum experience that will offer enhanced sensory activities all day long including: reduced volume throughout the exhibit area, touch tours, and hands-on educational activities. Visitors can borrow a KultureCity sensory bag from the front desk upon arrival.
Come visit during museum hours (10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.) on Saturday, July 23, 2022!
National Veterans Memorial and Museum
300 West Broad Street
Columbus, OH 43215
Dayton Live
"The Adventures of Tortoise & Hare - Next Gen" Live Show
This production is great for all families, especially for people with autism, sensory sensitivities, or other social, learning or cognitive disabilities. You can expect a reduction of loud or jarring sounds, the absence of flashing or strobe lighting on stage, and a judgment-free environment where all patrons are free to vocalize or move around the theatre. At no time will anyone be asked to leave the performance due to vocal reactions, movement, or behaviors related to cognitive/developmental abilities.
Patrons will have access to professionally curated resource materials to use in preparation for your visit like checklists, social narratives, and “Meet Your Seat” videos. Dayton Live also has designated quiet areas in our venues for patrons to use during the performance. Our trained staff and volunteers, as well as our partners at Dayton Children’s, are excited for you and your family to join us at the theatre. Due to the unique storytelling with light on the stage, the house lights for this sensory-friendly performance will be completely out. Ushers and volunteers will have flashlights to illuminate the walkways when necessary during the performance. If you have questions, please contact the Dayton Live Ticket Office.
It is our hope that this production will make attending the theatre an accessible and enjoyable experience for all.
Victoria Theatre
138 North Main Street
Dayton, Ohio 45402
Center of Science and Industry
Sensory Friendly Experiences
From their website: Inclusion is very important to COSI. Recently, COSI has been working with experts from Nationwide Children’s Hospital, The Autism Society Central Ohio, and other community focus groups to develop video tutorials which will allow our guests affected by Autism or other sensory sensitivity the opportunity to see exhibits and learn more about COSI before visiting.
We have also implemented resources such as our Calming Room to help accommodate our guests.
Calming Room
Available Whenever COSI is open. The Calming Room, located on the first floor near the Guest Services desk, can be used by overstimulated children and individuals who need a brief moment away from the COSI environment. The Calming Room is free for use by families with children on the autism spectrum or with other cognitive conditions. Please inquire at COSI’s Guest Services Desk for details.
Their website (at the link above), offers preparatory videos, a Sensory Friendly Environment Map, an Autism Guest Guide, and a weekly schedule of Sensory Friendly Experiences.
Center of Science and Industry
333 West Broad Street
Columbus, OH 43215
614-228-COSI
Beck Center for the Arts
Cinderella Ballet Sensory-Friendly Performance
Beck Center for the Arts is elated to present its upcoming 2020 Dance Production, Cinderella. Choreographed by Associate Director of Dance Education Melanie Szucs, this ballet follows the traditional Brothers Grimm storyline with a few exciting twists. Cinderella features a compilation of music and a special excerpt from Giselle, performed by the Dance Workshop with choreography by Marius Petipa and music by Adolphe Adam. With over 80 Beck Center dance students up to age 18, Cinderella showcases the best of Northeast Ohio’s young talent. This fairytale classic is a unique, family-friendly experience for all ages.
Beck Center proudly offers two sensory-friendly performances on Friday, March 27 at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. This performance will offer sound-limiting headphones, squeeze toys, and art activities, to accommodate all audience members.
For questions, and to reserve tickets, please contact Ed Gallagher at 216-521-2540 x 12 or egallagher@beckcenter.org
Beck Center for the Arts
17801 Detroit Avenue
Lakewood, Ohio 44107
216-521-2540 x 12
Dayton Live
Sensory-Friendly Grimmz Fairy Tales
This production is great for all families, especially for children with an autism spectrum disorder, sensory sensitivity, and other special needs. You can expect a reduction of loud or jarring sounds, the absence of flashing or strobe lighting on stage, modification of house lights during the performance, and a judgment-free environment where all patrons are free to vocalize or move around the theatre. At no time will anyone be asked to leave the performance due to vocal reactions, movement, or behaviors related to cognitive/developmental abilities.
A hip-hop revelation for the younger generation! Meet two modern-day hip-hop street performers, Jake and Will, who bring the stories of the Brothers Grimm to life with a contemporary urban spin, as they and a few of their friends turn records and dance circles around some of the most beloved and well-known fairy tales collected by the famous German brothers of old. Featured tales include “Cinderella,” “Hansel and Gretel,” “The Frog Prince,” “Rapunzel,” “Snow White & the Seven Shawties,” “The Brave Little Tailor,” “The Six Swans,” and “The Elves and the Shoemaker.” These tales include R&B, pop, reggae, and rap, with a little Run-D.M.C.-inspired rock and roll.
It is our hope that this production will make attending the theatre an accessible and enjoyable experience for all. Best for ages 7 and up.
Victoria Theatre
138 North Main Street
Dayton, Ohio 45402
Cedar Point Amusement Park
Fun For All
You may be asking yourself whether Cedar Point is appropriate for guests with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or whether your loved one on the spectrum will be able to handle the theme park experience. Cedar Point has taken steps to be well-prepared to welcome and provide accommodations for all types of disabilities, including autism and related disorders.
Cedar Point Amusement Park
1 Cedar Point Drive
Sandusky, OH 44870
Playhouse Square
Sensory-Friendly Performances
Playhouse Square is proud to commit to arts education, providing a variety of free and low-cost programs dedicated to inspiring and invigorating people of all ages, perspectives and abilities. Our sensory-friendly initiative is dedicated to increasing access and inclusion for children and families impacted by autism spectrum disorders and other sensory, social and cognitive challenges or issues. Some of our resident companies also present sensory-friendly programming.
Playhouse Square
1501 Euclid Avenue
Cleveland, OH 44115
National Chains That May Have Sensory-Friendly Activities in Your Area:
Autism on the Seas
Sensory-friendly Cruises
Autism on the Seas (AOTS) provides specialized cruise vacation services designed for adults and families with cognitive, intellectual, and developmental disabilities. AOTS enhances the traditional cruise experience with additional support, including respite care, personalized activities, and guided participation in shipboard entertainment. Their services also include expedited boarding and disembarkation, among other tailored accommodations. Their dedicated team of professional volunteers, who are background checked, approved by the cruise lines, and trained in managing a range of behaviors and needs, is committed to making every voyage enjoyable. AOTS extends support services to include families and friends traveling together, ensuring that everyone has a memorable and comfortable experience.
Autism on the Seas
494 Bridgeport Avenue Suite 101-346
Shelton, CT 06484-4762
Turtle Dance Music & AutismFriendlyShows.com
Turtle Dance Music & AutismFriendlyShows.com
Turtle Dance Music and AutismFriendlyShows.com helps kids come out of their shells with autism-friendly music, bubble and comedy concerts. Our 30-45 minute concerts are perfect for special events for autism centers, early learning centers, education conferences and schools! We play over 60 different instruments including guitar, banjo, didgeridoo, beatboxing, loopstations and it's funnier than having Jim Carrey or Robin Williams visit your school. We also do sensory-friendly activities like big GIANT bubbles!
We travel all over the country and have a block-booking pricing structure that will make our fees workable for your budget. All of our instructors have graduate degrees in special education, autism intervention, early childhood development and music therapy. This program is solely for entertainment and special events and not for private or group therapy services.
Check us out at https://www.TurtleDanceMusic.com, https://www.Youtube.com/TurtleDanceMusic, or Info@TurtleDanceMusic.com
Spectrum Sailing
Free Autism Sailing Camps
We are the only national autism sailing program. Spectrum Sailing travels the country to multiple cities offering FREE sailing camps to local kids.
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.