Tag: Sensory-Friendly Activities

5 Sensory-Friendly Spots to Visit in Chula Vista, CA 

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Sometimes, busy or noisy places can feel overwhelming for children who process sights and sounds differently. That’s where sensory-friendly spaces come in.  

These settings are designed to feel calmer and more flexible. They may turn down the volume, soften the lighting, or simply offer extra room so families can take things at their own pace. 

In Chula Vista, there are several spots designed with these things in mind. Here are five sensory-friendly places to visit around the city. 

1. Have Some Hands-On Fun at the Living Coast Discovery Center 

The Living Coast Discovery Center is a small zoo and aquarium located right on San Diego Bay. Families can see sea turtles, stingrays, and shorebirds in a quieter, more contained environment than larger zoos. The center also offers nature trails and outdoor spaces, giving kids room to explore at their own pace. 

Tip for Families: Weekday mornings are usually the least crowded. Check the calendar for special sensory-friendly events or call ahead about accommodations. 

2. Explore Nature at Otay Valley Regional Park 

If your child enjoys open spaces, Otay Valley Regional Park offers miles of peaceful trails, shaded picnic areas, and quiet spots to connect with nature. The wide paths make it easy for strollers or wheelchairs, and the slower pace of the park makes it a good option for sensory-sensitive kids. 

Tip for Families: Bring water, as services are limited. Morning visits provide cooler temperatures and fewer visitors. 

3. Read and Recharge at Chula Vista Public Library 

The Chula Vista Public Library  offers a calm, welcoming atmosphere with cozy seating and a dedicated children’s area. Check the calendar to see which branches provide inclusive story times or sensory-friendly programs. 

Tip for Families: Ask at the desk about any sensory kits, quiet areas, or upcoming events that may be helpful for your child. 

4. Explore the Waterfront at Bayside Park 

Along the waterfront, Bayside Park features wide open lawns, calm bay views, and shaded picnic tables. The slower pace of the park makes it a good place for unstructured play, kite flying, or simply watching the boats. 

Tip for Families: Visit in the morning or on weekdays for the quietest experience and cooler weather. 

5. Go for a Walk at Mountain Hawk Park 

Mountain Hawk Park sits near Otay Lake and offers open fields, walking paths, and shaded areas for family picnics. The park is spread out enough to allow kids to play freely without feeling crowded. The natural setting also makes it a peaceful retreat. 

Tip for Families: Afternoons are warmer and busier, so plan your visit earlier in the day for a calmer atmosphere. 

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

Looking for additional support for your child in Chula Vista, CA? At Autism Spectrum Services (AST), part of LEARN Behavioral, we use science and data to deliver contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, tailored to your child’s unique needs, interests, and personality. Learn more about our services in the Chula Vista area and contact us today. 

Autism Spectrum Therapies announces Free Sensory-Friendly Halloween-Themed Events in Menifee, Riverside, and Victorville

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Families throughout the region are invited to free sensory-friendly “Trunk or Treat” and “Trick or Treat” events at Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST) in Menifee, Riverside, and Victorville.

  • Friday, October 17, 2025, from 4:30-6 p.m., a Trunk-or-Treat event will be held at AST’s Riverside ABA Learning Center, 6235 River Crest Drive, Suite O/P, Riverside, CA 92507.
  • Friday, October 17, 2025, from 3-5 p.m., a Trunk-or-Treat event will be held at AST’s Victorville ABA Learning Center, 15450 W Sand Street, Victorville, CA 92392.
  • Friday, October 24, 2025, from 4-6 p.m., a Trick-or-Treat event will be held at AST’s Menifee ABA Learning Center, 29950 Haun Road, Menifee, CA 92586.

AST’s Halloween-themed events bring families together for sweet treats and smiles in a supportive environment. Events are free and open to the public.

Inland Empire ABA Learning Centers

AST, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. AST is a premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children and adolescents. The three Inland Empire ABA Learning Centers provide center-based, in-home, and school-based ABA therapy, Social Skills Programs, and parent education.

The Menifee, Riverside, and Victorville locations opened earlier this year and provide ABA therapy, which includes a learning-rich environment, unique play-based learning spaces, and one-on-one support. There’s no waitlist at these locations, and flexible treatment hours accommodate busy family schedules.

For more information or to enroll a child, call (866) 727-8274 or visit https://autismtherapies.com/locations/inland-empire

About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

Top 5 Sensory-Friendly Places in Azusa, CA 

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Planning outings for kids on the autism spectrum can require extra consideration.  

Bright lights, loud noises, and crowded spaces can sometimes trigger sensory sensitivities. 

Sensory-friendly environments are designed to minimize challenges with soft lighting, quiet areas, and steady routines. 

In Azusa, which sits at the base of California’s San Gabriel Mountains, there’s plenty of access to outdoor spaces. Many of these locations around the city offer quiet, uncrowded, and manageable settings for families with kids on the autism spectrum to explore. 

We also have a growing number of indoor spaces designed with the senses in mind. Here are five sensory-friendly places to explore in and around Azusa: 

1. Crystal Lake Recreation Area Offers a Peaceful Outdoor Escape 

About 30 minutes from Azusa, Crystal Lake Recreation Area in the Angeles National Forest provides cool mountain air, quiet trails, and the sounds of nature. Families can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching in a calm environment away from city noise. 

Tip for Families: Visit early in the day for fewer visitors. Bring water, snacks, and layers, as the weather can change quickly in the mountains. 

2. Azusa River Wilderness Park Gives Kids Space to Explore Quietly 

Along the San Gabriel River, Azusa River Wilderness Park is a quiet green space for short walks and nature breaks. It has wide trails and open views, which can feel more comfortable for kids who prefer space and movement. 

Tip for Families: Bring a blanket for a sensory-friendly picnic. Avoid afternoons on hot days, as there is limited shade. 

3. Azusa City Library Hosts Calm and Inclusive Story Times 

The Azusa City Library offers a sensory-friendly story time called “Creating Connections.” These sessions use gentle lighting, soft voices, and simple crafts. The library also has quiet areas where kids can read or do puzzles at their own pace. 

Tip for Families: Check the library’s calendar. Midweek mornings are usually less busy. 

4. Sky Zone Covina Holds Sensory Hours 

Just 10 minutes from Azusa, Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Covina holds sensory hours with dimmer lights, lower volume, and fewer people. Kids can jump, climb, and move around in a more relaxed setting. 

Tip for Families: Sensory sessions are usually on Sunday mornings. Arrive early so your child can ease into the space. 

5. We Rock the Spectrum in Downey Was Built for Sensory-Friendly Play 

About 30 minutes from Azusa, We Rock the Spectrum in Downey is an indoor gym created for children of all abilities. It features swings, sensory toys, a calming room, and padded equipment for safe play and movement. 

Tip for Families: Call ahead to ask about open play and quiet times. Staff are familiar with sensory needs and can help make your visit easier. 

Looking for additional support for your child in Azusa, CA? At Autism Spectrum Therapies (AST), we offer applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy tailored to your child’s unique strengths and needs. Our team uses science and compassion to help your child grow. 

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