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Sensory-Friendly Activities in

South Carolina

South Carolina State Fairgrounds

South Carolina State Fair Sensory Friendly Morning

On October 17th, 2024 the lights will shine a little less, and the sounds will be more quiet.  This will happen from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM when the South Carolina State Fair hosts a Sensory Friendly Morning on Exceptional Citizens Day at the Fair.


South Carolina State Fairgrounds

1200 Rosewood Drive

Columbia, SC 29201

ABS Kids

Sensory Friendly Fall Fest

We are excited to host you and your family at our free Sensory-Friendly Fall Festival event on Saturday, October 12th, 2024, from 2 PM – 5 PM EDT in Rock Hill, SC! We’ll have fun for the whole family including face painting, arts & crafts, and more!  Hope to see you there!


ABS Kids

197 Piedmont Boulevard, Suite 111

Rock Hill, SC 29732

Main Street Children's Museum

Sensory-Friendly Evening

Come join us for FREE sensory-friendly evenings beginning on July 9 from 5-7 p.m. Exclusively for our guests with sensory sensitivities, during these sessions our lights will be turned low and noisy manipulatives, including our air-machine, will be turned off or put away. No RSVP required. Come early as there is limited capacity. Thanks to ABSKids for their sponsorship! For any questions about Sensory-Friendly Evenings, please contact dvanbenschoten@chmuseums.org. This is a great chance for all of our sensory-sensitive friends to come check out the Museum!


Upcoming Sensory-Friendly Sessions:


  • September 10, 2024 | 5 – 7 p.m.

  • November 12, 2024 | 5 – 7 p.m.

  • January 14, 2025 | 5 – 7 p.m.


Main Street Children's Museum

133 E Main St

Rock Hill, SC 29730

South Pointe High School's Stallion Repertory Theatre

Sensory Friendly Performance - When She Had Wings


Saturday, October 7th @ 11am

http://www.stallionrep.com/when-she-had-wings.html


A Sensory Friendly performance is a theater production that welcomes individuals with sensory needs, including people on the autism spectrum, as well as first-time theatergoers and young children. The show is modified to allow for patron movement, staff and actors are trained to accommodate patron needs, and all patrons are welcome to experience theater in a safe, non-judgmental environment.


ABOUT THE SHOW A story told in sound, movement and words about 9-year-old B … just plain B, like the letter, like the grade, who is about to turn 10 and is not happy about that! B knows, really knows, that before she could walk, she could fly. She is desperate to remember how before the dreaded birthday comes. In a summer thunderstorm, B's treehouse is hit by lightning, and a mysterious stranger appears. She cannot speak except in strange squawks, single words and occasionally the letters "KHAQQ" … the call letters of the plane Amelia Earhart was flying when she disappeared and was never found. Is this creature a bird, an older woman escaped from a senior care unit or could she possibly be Amelia herself? Together they must help each other remember how to fly … literally and metaphorically.  Buy Your Tickets Here - https://stallionrep.booktix.net/


South Pointe High School's Stallion Repertory Theatre

801 Neely Road

Rock Hill, SC 29730

954-464-3790

The Children's Museum of the Upstate - Spartanburg

Sensory Friendly Wednesdays

During Sensory Wednesday, the lights are dimmed, our water table is turned off, and rotating activities in the classroom are self-guided for learning and play. Sensory Wednesday activities are included with the price of admission.


The Children's Mueseum of the Upstate- Spartanburg

130 Magnolia St

Spartanburg, SC 29306

864-233-7755

The Children's Museum of the Lowcountry

CML Superstars

FREE Admission for children with special needs. The Children’s Museum is open from 10:00am – 12:00pm on the second and fourth Sundays of every month exclusively for children with special needs and their families to visit the Museum for FREE.  Children are able to explore and play in the Museum without the crowds and over-stimulation.  This program is FREE, but registration is required.


The Children's Museum of the Lowcountry

25 Ann Street

Charleston, SC 29403

843-853-8962

STAR Academy

A Sensory Learning Center

At STAR (Sensory Teaching And Recreation) Academy ALL children fit in and are stars with exceptional talents, skills, and gifts. With state-of-the-art sensory equipment, furniture and toys, children can play with a purpose, improve visual, auditory, and tactile processing, and most importantly help to regulate their emotions, anxiety, and behaviors.


STAR Academy

647 Main Street

North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582

917-658-6092

WonderWorks

Sensory Days

From their website: "WonderWorks is excited to host Sensory Days! WonderWorks’ exhibits are altered to provide limited stimulation for children with special needs. The music in the facility is lowered, any loud exhibit is not operational and we stop our inversion tunnel creating a safe environment for kids to enjoy the facility without feeling overwhelmed." 

WonderWorks

1313 Celebrity Circle

Myrtle Beach, SC 29577 

843-626-9962

Surfside Beach

Sensory Friendly Town

From their website: Staying true to our “Family Beach” motto, Surfside Beach officially became the first autism-friendly travel destination in the world in January 2016.

 

It’s a first we’re proud of, as Resolution 16-162 declares, “Whereas, the Business Committee has developed a plan for families affected by autism to experience a safe and enjoyable vacation at The Family Beach that will accommodate the families’ needs by hosting events specifically designed for individual with autism; and whereas, the Lowcountry Autism Foundation Inc., the Autism Academy of South Carolina, and the Reggie Sanders Foundation have endorsed this effort; and whereas the business community has engaged in this effort and together, with the Surfside Beach Business Committee, endorse the recommendation to resolve that the Town of Surfside Beach is ‘An Autism-Friendly Travel Destination.’”

Click the link above to learn more about the town of Surfside Beach and click here to learn about CAN, the Champion Autism Network.

The Children's Museum of the Upstate - Greenville

Sensory Friendly Areas

First Floor Quiet Spaces include: On slower days the Cafe is usually fairly empty, and there is an outdoor patio area to grab a fresh breath of air. The outdoor patio area is temporarily closed as of June 2022. Adjacent to the rear elevator, there is a family-size restroom to utilize.  Sensory Square, in front of the small elevator past the Open Art Studios. 


Second Floor Quiet Spaces include: Next to the large rear elevator, there is a family-size restroom to utilize.  The Dream Theater can be a great place to escape from crowds and decompress when not in use.  


Third Floor Quiet Spaces include:  Next to the large rear elevator, there is a family-size restroom to utilize.


The Children's Mueseum of the Upstate- Greenville

300 College St.

Greenville, SC 29601

864-233-7755

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

203-604-0278

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


973-493-2326

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.


847-863-3059

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

914-489-0520

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

734-660-7136

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,

  • Lights are turned up and sound is turned down

  • All ages are welcome (including infants)

  • Talking and noise is allowed and guests can move around

  • Latecomers are admitted

  • 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:

  • Suspended equipment with swings – for balance and vestibular treatment

  • Crash mats and crash pillows – for fun, motor planning, and strength

  • Zip line – for stress release and joint and body relaxation

  • Trampoline – for building leg and core strength

  • Indoor play structure – for climbing and increasing playground skills

  • Sensory-based toys – for improved auditory processing and fine motor skills

  • 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:

  • Less crowding and noise

  • Dimmed lighting

  • Show and music turned off or down

  • Limited appearances by Chuck E.

  • 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.

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