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Sensory-Friendly Activities in

Texas

New Strength Adaptive Fitness LLC

Fitness Center and Coaching Specifically for Special Needs

New Strength Adaptive Fitness provides a multitude of fitness and enrichment options including but not limited to strength training, functional fitness, gymnastics and tumbling, martial arts, and yoga to an underserved population that lacks options for fitness, extracurricular, and enrichment activities and facilities. We provide coaching and training services adapted to each individual's abilities and needs regardless of any cognitive, physical, neurological, or emotional impairment.


Our goal is to ensure that a variety of fitness activities and the physical, psychological, and emotional benefits that they provide are no longer out of reach of anyone.


New Strength Adaptive Fitness LLC

1201A West Green Oaks Blvd

Arlington, Tx 76013

682-800-3153

Magik Theatre

Sensory-Friendly Performance: Lyric & the Keys

Lyric, a second-grader experiencing reading difficulties, finds an unexpected teacher in Mr. Hartley, the school janitor. Through the help of his made-from-junk robots, Mr. Hartley mentors Lyric, fostering her confidence and equipping her with the tools needed to overcome her reading challenges.  With catchy melodies and a folk guitar score, Lyric & the Keys is a new musical celebrating what it means for young people to believe in themselves enough to do anything – even learn to read. The key has always been inside!  Book By Roxanne Schroeder-Arce Music and Lyrics by Jenn Hartmann Luck Commissioned by and World Premiere presented at Magik Theatre.  Lyric & The Keys is sponsored by H-E-B.


Sensory Bags and Quiet Areas are available at all performances. Sensory Friendly performances have several modifications before and during the performance. To learn more, visit https://www.magiktheatre.org/sensory-friendly/.


Magik Theatre

420 S Alamo St.

San Antonio, Texas, 78205

210-227-2751

The Dinosaur Company

Sensory-Friendly Dinner with Dinos

Tuesday, 11/30
5:30-8:30pm


We believe dinosaurs are for everyone- but a large event can be overwhelming for those with sensory sensitivities or learning differences. We are happy to invite families in need of a more relaxed and inclusive experience to join us for an evening out!  


The night starts with a meal at your own table, and then you can visit interactive dinosaur themed stations in our event space. You will also have the opportunity to visit our Creature Corral to meet some more dino friends. 


We are limiting the event to 4 family reservations per 30 minute time slot to keep the evening intimate. This event is a joint partnership with JCK Resources, which provides transitional education for young adults with special needs.   Book your tickets and find out more information at www.thedinosaurcompany.shop!


The Dinosaur Company

420 Central Pkwy.

Allen, Tx 75013

469-273-1388

Achievement Center of Texas

Special Arts Festival

Our Special Arts Festival is a one of a kind event that celebrates the students at Achievement Center of Texas and their various artistic skills. This event is an opportunity for our students with disabilities to share their talents, art and accomplishments with the community.

 

The event includes a wide variety of activities in music, dance, drama and visual arts. Our guests will also be able to participate in workshops that feature “make and take” arts and crafts using repurposed items. Thanks to Bubb's Fundraising, we will also be accepting used and unwanted electronics and other various items to raise funds for the center.

 

Achievement Center of Texas

2660 Belt Line Road

Garland, TX 75044

972-414-7700

Crayola Experience

Sensory Sunday

From their website: "Sensory Sunday! Join us for a special morning designed for kids and families who would like to experience the attraction adapted just for sensory needs. - Lights will be dimmed - Music will be turned off - Quiet room/space - Special Character Appearance" 

 

Crayola Experience

The Shops at Willow Bend

6121 W Park Blvd Suite A100

Plano, TX 75093 

469-642-2901

Dallas Children's Theater

Sensory Friendly Performances

From the theatre: "With the mission of inspiring young people to creative and productive lives through the art of the theater, DCT is now proud to be able to create a positive, fun atmosphere for families with sensory friendly needs. A child with autism or some other sensory challenge who loves theater and the arts will be excited about this new program at DCT and, hopefully, with the transformational experience of theater, will be inspired to creatively contribute to the world and their community in their own way."

Rosewood Center

5938 Skillman

Dallas, Texas 75231

214-740-0051

Morgan's Wonderland

Fully Accessible Inclusive Theme Park

From the theme park: "When it celebrated its grand opening April 10, 2010, Morgan’s Wonderland became the world’s first theme park designed with special-needs individuals in mind and built for everyone’s enjoyment. The completely wheelchair-accessible park features more than 25 elements including rides, playgrounds and other colorful attractions.

 

From the very beginning, anyone with a special need has been admitted free of charge, no questions asked." Morgan's even offers water-proof wheelchairs and strollers for guests to enjoy the splash park Morgan's Inspiration Island. We haven't been there but we would love to go! No matter what your limits may be, it sounds like an AMAZING place to just be a kid.

Morgan's Wonderland

5223 David Edwards Drive

San Antonio, Texas 78233

 

Recommended GPS address:

Heroes Stadium

4799 Thousand Oaks Drive

San Antonio, TX 78233

210-495-5888

Thinkery

Sensory Friendly Hours

Thinkery seems to have recurring, scheduled, sensory friendly hours. We recommend checking their website or calling to see about upcoming events.

From their website (about an April 2018 event):  Thinkery is committed to providing an accessible and interactive experience for all. During Sensory Friendly Hours, Thinkery extends a special invitation to learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) or other special needs to explore Thinkery with their families.

A typical visit to Thinkery can be challenging for those who feel overwhelmed by large crowds and excessive stimuli. In acknowledgment of this, the galleries will be modified to reduce extra stimuli and ticket sales will be limited to reduce crowding.

In addition to exclusive museum access, Thinkery partners with amazing organizations to provide fun, hands-on activities and tailored information:

  • FREE admission, generously sponsored by Variety Texas.

  • FREE breakfast tacos, generously provided by Hat Creek Burger Company.

  • 8:30 am & 9:30 am: Shining Stars – Theatre arts and improv games with Joshua's Stage

  • 9 am story time with Spark Learning's energetic team of ABA therapists.

  • Let’s dance and move! Stop by for a quick dance session for individuals of all abilities with 2dance2dream.

Their website also offers floor maps and social story PDFs to help you prepare.

Thinkery

at the Meredith Learning Lab
1830 Simond Ave
Austin, Texas 78723

512-469-6200

Jump Street Indoor Trampoline Park

Special Needs Days

 Special Needs days are the first Saturday of the month. They turn down/off the music and they will make an exception to allow outside food, if needed. The first hour of jumping is solely for special needs families and parents/guardians jump for free.

Jump Street Allen – North Plano

2031 W Mcdermott Dr.

Allen, TX 75013

469-854-6000

Jump Street Cedar Park

12617 Ridgeline Blvd.

Cedar Park, TX 78613

512-506-8583

Jump Street Dallas

11250 N Central Expy.

Dallas, TX 75243

972-349-6999

Jump Street Katy

Katy Mills Mall

5000 Katy Mills Cr.

Katy, TX 77494

281-347-3911

Jump Street West Plano

6505 W. Park Blvd.

Plano, TX 75093

972-378-5867

Nasher Sculpture Center

Sensory-Friendly Family Fun

Enjoy a morning of sensory discovery in the Nasher Galleries and Garden. Create, interact and explore your way through sensory-friendly activities before the museum is open to the public. FREE Admission for all participants. Siblings are welcome. RSVP requested. Presented in collaboration with the School of Occupational Therapy, Texas Woman’s University. April 18, 2018 9 am - 11 am

Nasher Sculpture Center

2001 Flora Street

Dallas, Texas 75201

214-242-5100

George Ranch Historical Park

Sensory-Friendly Day

On Sunday, April 15, the George Ranch Historical Park will open its doors for its first annual Sensory-Friendly Day! This exclusive event is open for families with children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and other sensory and developmental challenges to explore the Park in a safe, structured and enjoyable manner. This full-day event will include the following modifications to ensure a customized and welcoming visit:

  • Quiet Corners—Quiet Corners have been established throughout the Park and are available on all four of the main historic sites. A special map is available which features these locations and gives helpful advice on how to navigate the Park.

  • Sensory-Friendly Kits—These sensory-friendly kits include a variety of objects to help enhance the quiet spot when needed. Our kits include weighted lap pads, lavender lotion, stress balls and fidget spinners, crayons, coloring books and picture books.

  • Noise-Cancelling Headphones & Colored Glasses—Noise-cancelling headphones and colored glasses are available for check out from the front desk at the Visitor Center throughout the day.

  • Sensory-Friendly Map & Guide to the Sites—This GRHP Sensory Friendly Guide shows the locations of the Quiet Corners, which can be used as needed.

  • Sensory Stories—GRHP Sensory Friendly Guides were created in coordination with The Arc of Fort Bend County to help our guests prepare for their visit to our facility.

  

George Ranch Historical Park

10215 FM 762 Rd

Richmond, TX

281-343-0218

The Houston Museum of Natural Science (Sugar Land)

P.A.W.S. Reading Program

Our specially trained therapy dogs are great listeners and can help your child become a more confident reader.  Children of any age and ability will enjoy reading aloud to our very special, non-judgmental, furry friends.  Bring a favorite book or select one from our collection when you come read with PAWS. Fridays and Saturdays at 10am.

Houston Museum of Natural Science

13016 University Blvd.

Sugar Land, Texas 77479

281-313-2277

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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