5 Sensory-Friendly Activities in Avondale, Arizona

Published: March 14, 2025

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Finding activities that work for kids on the autism spectrum can be tough. Loud noises, bright lights, and crowded spaces can sometimes turn a fun outing into a stressful one.

That’s why sensory-friendly activities matter. These experiences can create calmer environments, making it easier for children with sensory sensitivities to enjoy themselves.

Many businesses and community spaces in the Avondale area now offer sensory-friendly areas with lower sound levels, dimmed lights, and reduced crowds. These changes can make a big difference for families looking for inclusive activities.

If you’re in Avondale, or nearby, here are five sensory-friendly places that your family might love.

1. Sensory-Friendly Hour at Avondale Civic Center Library

The Avondale Civic Center Library hosts a Sensory Friendly Hour designed for kids who need a quieter, low-stimulation setting. The library lowers noise levels and limits distractions, giving families a calm space to explore books and participate in Storytime. It’s a great way for kids to engage in reading without feeling overwhelmed. Space is limited, so check the schedule and register in advance.

Tip for Families: Bring headphones or a favorite comfort item to help your child feel even more at ease.

2. Sensory Hours at Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Phoenix offers Sensory Hours, where the music is turned down, and flashing lights are eliminated. Kids can enjoy bouncing and playing in an area designed specifically for those with sensory sensitivities. Call ahead to confirm the schedule.

Tip for Families: Dress your child in comfortable clothes and bring water to keep them hydrated. Arriving early can help ease transitions.

3. Sensory-Friendly Screenings at Harkins Theatres

Going to the movies can be tough for kids with sensory sensitivities. Harkins Theatres has two area locations. They have Sensory Friendly Screenings once a month, with the volume turned down and lights left dim instead of completely dark. Kids are free to move around, talk, and enjoy the film in a judgment-free space. These screenings usually happen on the first Saturday of the month.

Tip for Families: Bring noise-canceling headphones if your child is sensitive to sound, and check the theater’s website for movie schedules.

4. Sensory-Friendly Play at Urban Air Adventure Park

Urban Air Adventure Park, about 5 miles from Avondale in Goodyear, hosts Sensory Friendly Play, a dedicated time when the park lowers music and reduces bright lighting to create a calmer atmosphere. Kids can enjoy trampolines, climbing walls, and play structures without the usual overwhelming stimuli. It’s a fun and active way for kids to burn off energy in a space designed with their needs in mind.

Tip for Families: Call ahead to ask about crowd levels and bring snacks or a sensory-friendly fidget toy to help with transitions.

5. Sensory-Friendly Adventures at Arizona Science Center

The Arizona Science Center in Phoenix offers a “Pal Place” sensory-friendly experience for guests who need extra support. They have a dedicated sensory room where kids can take a break if needed. The museum also hosts sensory-friendly hours where noise levels and lighting are adjusted for a more comfortable visit. It’s a great place for kids to explore and learn in a way that works for them.

Tip for Families: Visit during sensory-friendly hours for a calmer experience, and bring sunglasses or a hat in case of bright exhibits.

Creating a More Inclusive Community

Finding sensory-friendly activities can make all the difference when planning family outings. These five places near Avondale offer welcoming spaces where kids with sensory sensitivities can feel comfortable and included.

Whether it’s bouncing at a trampoline park, watching a movie, or exploring a museum, these experiences allow children to have fun in a way that works for them.

Check out our LEARN Behavioral blog on 5 simple play ideas for more sensory-friendly ideas.

Looking for additional support for your child in Avondale, AZ? At AST, we use science and data to deliver contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, tailored exclusively to your child’s unique needs, behavior, and personality. Learn more about our services in the Avondale area and contact us today!

5 Sensory-Friendly Activities in Lawrence, MA for Kids on the Autism Spectrum

Published: February 25, 2025

Finding activities that work for kids with autism isn’t always easy. Many children on the autism spectrum experience sensory sensitivities. This means certain sounds, lights, textures, or crowded spaces can feel overwhelming or even distressing. That’s where sensory-friendly activities come in.

Massachusetts has always valued outdoor spaces and welcomes people with different sensory needs. New England’s trails and gardens offer spaces for comfort and inclusion.

For families on the autism spectrum, “sensory-friendly” means even more. They’re looking for environments and activities that with quieter spaces, softer lighting, or more predictable settings. These thoughtful adjustments can help kids feel calmer and allow them to enjoy activities without stress.

Sensory-friendly spaces can also provide relief for families. It’s a chance to find connection, knowing the environment supports your child’s needs.

In Lawrence, the rural area roughly 30 miles north of Boston, there are a growing number of sensory-friendly activities your family can try. These include calm outdoor spaces and welcoming play areas.

1. Explore Den Rock Park

Den Rock Park is a 120-acre wooded nature preserve that’s good for kids who love quiet, outdoor spaces. The park has easy trails, open spaces, and lots of nature. The sounds of birds and rustling leaves can be calming.

Bring binoculars for birdwatching or plan a family picnic in a peaceful spot. The slower pace and calm surroundings make it a relaxing option.

Tip for Families: Weekdays or early mornings are not as crowded. Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.

2. Visit Nevins Memorial Library

The children’s section at Nevins Memorial Library is a quiet and safe space for kids. There are books, puzzles, and craft activities your child can try.

Tip for Families: Check with the librarians to see when sensory story times are scheduled. The library sometimes has events specifically for children with sensory issues.

3. Learn and Play at Lawrence Heritage State Park

If your family enjoys exploring history, check out Lawrence Heritage State Park. The Visitor Center has simple activities that kids can engage with at their own speed. It’s not overwhelming and has areas where kids can take breaks if needed.

The park also has outdoor spots for a stroll or a quiet escape. It’s a mix of learning and breathing room, which can help keep kids comfortable and happy.

Tip for Families: Call ahead to ask about hands-on activities or events that might interest your family.

4. Try a Trampoline Park

For kids who love to jump, the area offers several indoor trampoline parks — such as Altitude Trampoline Park, 10 miles away in Pelham, N.H. — that run sensory-friendly sessions at certain times. The lights are dimmed, and the noise is kept low. Your child can enjoy trampolines, climbing walls, and foam pits without feeling overwhelmed.

The staff understands different sensory needs, and the rules make the experience feel safe and predictable.

Tip for Families: Call the park to check when the next sensory-friendly session is. Comfortable clothes and water make the visit easier.

5. Relax in a Cozy Cafe or Take Your Kids to a Play Space

The Lawrence area also offers some cafes with play areas designed with kids in mind. Some even offer low-stimulation play areas or calming activities. One is STEMspot, in Lawrence, which combines the fun of a mini hands-on science museum with a cafe. Another is We Rock the Spectrum, in Westford, 16 miles from Lawrence, which has a gym, calming room, retail shop, snack room, lounge, and game room.

Tip for Families: Check ahead to see what options each location offers to make sure it fits your child’s needs.

Check out our LEARN Behavioral blog on 5 simple play ideas for more sensory-friendly ideas.

Looking for additional support for your child in Lawrence, MA? At Behavioral Concepts (BCI), we use science and data to deliver contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, tailored exclusively to your child’s unique needs, behavior, and personality. Learn more about our services in the Lawrence area and contact us today!

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6 Sensory-Friendly Activities in Grand Rapids, MI

Author: Total Spectrum | Updated On February 24, 2025

It can be hard to find activities for kids who need sensory-friendly spaces. But Grand Rapids is adding more spaces to support families.

Sensory-friendly spaces are designed to be calm and quiet. They help reduce bright lights and loud sounds. These small changes create a more comfortable environment for kids who might otherwise feel overstimulated.

For children with autism, these spaces can feel like a safe haven. They help kids relax and enjoy themselves without feeling anxious or stressed. Sensory-friendly movie theaters, parks, and events all share the same goal: making the experience fun and accessible for everyone.

Here’s a guide to the best sensory-friendly activities in the area.

1. Grand Rapids Children’s Museum

The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is a haven for kids craving hands-on fun. Recognizing the needs of children with sensory sensitivities, the museum hosts Sensory Toolkits that include noise-canceling headphones, sensory toys, and visual schedules to help families feel at ease. They also offer Sensory Friendly Hours with reduced noise levels and dimmed lighting to create a calming atmosphere.

Tip for Families: Visit during the sensory-friendly time slots, and bring familiar comfort items to help your child adjust to the new environment.

2. John Ball Zoo

The John Ball Zoo is a favorite destination for families in Grand Rapids, and they take extra steps to make the zoo accessible for everyone. Their Quiet Area Maps guide you to tranquil spots where you and your family can take a break if the exhibits become overwhelming. The zoo also offers sensory bags equipped with noise-canceling headphones, lap pads, and fidget toys, available for free rental.

Tip for Families: Start your visit early in the day when it’s less crowded, and plan your route to include quiet zones for breaks.

3. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park

Nature lovers will find peace and joy at the Frederik Meijer Gardens, a sprawling park with manicured gardens and inspiring sculptures. The sounds of birds and water fountains create a soothing environment. The Children’s Garden features interactive musical instruments and spaces for quiet reflection designed to meet diverse needs.

Tip for Families: Take advantage of weekdays, as the gardens are not as crowded, and explore sensory-friendly paths that offer a peaceful experience.

4. Celebration Cinema GR North

Celebration Cinema GR North hosts Sensory Showtimes that provide a relaxed movie-going experience. During these screenings, the lights remain dim (but not completely dark), and the volume is lower to avoid overwhelming sensory input. Kids are welcome to move around or make noise during the movie, creating a judgment-free zone for families.

Tip for Families: Check Celebration Cinema’s calendar to catch the latest sensory showtimes and pick a movie your kids are excited to see.

5. The Salvation Army Kroc Center

This community hub has an inclusive environment offering sensory-friendly programming, such as open gym sessions and swimming time reserved for children with sensory sensitivities.

Tip for Families: Call ahead to ask about upcoming programs or events tailored for sensory-sensitive kids.

6. The Grand Rapids Public Library

The library offers sensory support and has a kit families can use during their visit that includes a weighted vest and suspenders, noise-reduction headphones, a tangle therapy toy, emotion flashcards, fidget, bracelet, and social story guide.

Tip for Families: Check the library calendar to see when librarians offer storytimes to read books to kids.

Tips for Families Exploring Sensory-Friendly Activities

Plan Ahead: Contact locations beforehand to confirm accessibility accommodations and plan your visit during sensory-friendly hours.

Pack Essentials: To ease transitions in new environments, bring snacks, headphones, or sensory toys your child is familiar with.

Pace Yourself: Plan shorter visits or include breaks to avoid overstimulation. Many venues offer quiet spaces where your family can regroup if needed.

Talk It Through: Preparing your child by explaining what to expect at the venue can help reduce any anxiety.

For more sensory-friendly ideas, check out our LEARN Behavioral blog on 5 simple play ideas.

Looking for additional support for your child in Grand Rapids, MI? At Total Spectrum, we use science and data to deliver contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, tailored exclusively to your child’s unique needs, behavior, and personality. Learn more about our services in the Grand Rapids area and contact us today!

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7 Tips for Snow Day Fun

Updated On January 19, 2023

By Karen Callahan

While no one can argue with the fun of traditional activities, such as building snowmen or snow angels, keeping your kiddo occupied throughout an entire snow day while confined to your house might require a few more tricks up your sleeve.

Consider the unique opportunities the snow can provide for you and your kiddo to explore different language concepts, social skills, academic tasks, and leisure activities. Think about bringing what winter has to offer indoors, where it is warm, for a unique way to learn and play together.

To get started, grab a few safe bowls (think plastic Tupperware), some pots, a muffin tin, and a few spoons of different sizes. Fill one bowl with cold water and another with hot water. Throw a big beach towel on the floor and grab some of that white, powdery stuff! Here are seven tips for snow day fun.

Let your child explore, figure out what they like about the activity, and add to what they find fun. If they’re watching you and waiting for what you will do next, you’ve got it right!
In the beginning, don’t demand your child’s attention. Show them some fun ways to play with the snow and “kitchen stuff” and talk about what is happening. “Wow, you smashed the snow!” “Did you see it melt in the hot water?” “You got more snow!” “Stir, stir, stir, good job stirring!”
Language Concepts: Once you’ve got the activity going, use the snow to start talking about fun, related language concepts like hot/cold, wet/dry, and melting/frozen.
Social Skills: Take turns using the spoons, stirring, and playing. Encourage and model social skills by commenting about the activity and what you or your child enjoy. “Watch it melt!” “Wow, that is cold!” “I like playing in the snow!”
Academic Tasks: Discuss weather, precipitation, seasons, and states of matter (solid, liquid, gas). Use your muffin tin and practice counting as you fill each cup.
Leisure Skills: Feel free to step away from the activity and let your child dig in on their own. Sustaining a play activity and incorporating newly learned play skills modeled by an adult play a crucial role in learning.
Be sure to set boundaries about where the snow must stay. We suggest prompting all snow activity back to the area of the beach towel.

Most importantly, have fun and enjoy this new experience!