Tag: sensory sensitivities

5 Sensory-Friendly Activities in Menifee, CA, for Kids on the Autism Spectrum

Published:

FEATURED POSTS

children taking art class
Discover 5 Sensory-Friendly Spots for Families in New Bedford, MA 
April 17, 2025
Cary NC Learning Center Ribbon Cutting
Our New Cary Learning Center Ribbon Cutting Celebration!
April 14, 2025
kid and dad looking at dinosaur
5 Sensory-Friendly Activities in Riverside, CA, for Kids on the Autism Spectrum
April 4, 2025
5 Sensory-Friendly Activities in Menifee, CA, for Kids on the Autism Spectrum
April 3, 2025

For families with children on the autism spectrum, visiting public places can occasionally present unique challenges. Bright lights, loud sounds, and crowded areas may become overwhelming for some children, sometimes making outings feel harder to plan. 

This is where sensory-friendly spaces can make a real difference. These environments often feature adjustments such as dimmed lighting, reduced noise levels, and fewer people, all aimed at creating a more comfortable and supportive setting. 

For many families, these spaces provide opportunities for children to enjoy stimulating activities, discover new interests, and connect with the world in a way that suits their needs. They also allow families to spend meaningful time together and build positive experiences. 

In Menifee, here are five sensory-friendly activities to consider in the area. 

1. Go to a Movie at Reading Cinemas at Cal Oaks Plaza 

Reading Cinemas offers sensory-friendly movie showings on select Saturday mornings. During these screenings, the lights are dimmed instead of dark, and sound levels are reduced. Kids are encouraged to move around and enjoy the film at their own pace. 

Tip for Families: Check their events calendar to confirm showtimes and plan your visit early to get the best seats. 

2. Check Out Menifee Library’s Sensory-Friendly Storytime

Menifee’s library hosts sensory-friendly storytime sessions designed for neurodiverse kids. The sessions include calming activities such as soothing stories, sensory play, and low-stimulation settings. Kids can also enjoy quiet reading nooks. 

Tip for Families: Call ahead to learn about dates and the library’s other sensory-sensitive programs. 

3. Head to a City Park with a Quiet Outdoor Space

For fresh air and nature, Menifee’s city parks offer calm spots where kids can play and explore. Central Park, with its open spaces and shaded picnic areas, is a great choice for kids who benefit from low-key environments. It also has walking trails for peaceful family strolls. 

Tip for Families: Visit in the morning or evening to avoid larger crowds and bring noise-canceling headphones for added comfort. 

4. Visit Drop Zone Waterpark’s Special Quiet Days

Drop Zone Waterpark in Perris, located just outside Menifee, offers special “quiet days” throughout the year. On these days, the park reduces loud music and lowers the pressure of spray features for a more sensory-friendly atmosphere. Families can enjoy water play in an inclusive and less stimulating setting. 

Tip for Families: Check Drop Zone Waterpark’s calendar for scheduled quiet days. Consider packing sensory tools like sunglasses or noise-canceling headphones to make the experience even more enjoyable. 

5. Appreciate Nature at Aldergate Dog Park

Even if you don’t have a dog, Aldergate Dog Park is a great spot to enjoy quiet outdoor time. This park offers a spacious and enclosed area where kids can walk, explore, and watch the dogs play. With its open layout and friendly vibe, it’s an underused, peaceful location ideal for sensory-sensitive children. 

Tip for Families: Visit early in the day for a quieter experience and bring along snacks, water, or sensory comfort items for your child. 

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

Looking for additional support for your child in Menifee, CA? 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 Menifee area and contact us today!   

Recognizing Autism Symptoms: How to Spot Early Signs

Updated On
Clinically Reviewed By: 1

By Sabrina Daneshvar, Ph.D., BCBA-D, senior vice president of clinical services at LEARN Behavioral

Recognizing Autism Symptoms: How to Spot Early Signs

Autism isn’t always easy to spot. It’s a complex neurological and developmental disorder. It often shows up in early childhood and affects how a person interacts with others, communicates, and learns.

Since symptoms of autism vary so widely from person to person, it can be challenging to diagnose.

Recognizing early signs can be vital to getting help. If you suspect your child may be on the autism spectrum, talk to your pediatrician. A medical professional can guide you on the next steps. This may include a complete diagnostic evaluation.

Understanding Autism

You may be familiar with people talking about autism existing on a “spectrum.” This means a person’s symptoms can vary in severity across many areas. For example, some people might have trouble with social interactions and communication. They might have difficulty understanding body language or maintaining a conversation. Others might have repetitive behaviors or be intensely focused on certain interests.

Simply put, autism doesn’t look the same for everyone. Everyone experiences it differently.

Early Signs of Autism

While every child is unique, there are common signs of autism to watch for. Here are some:

  • Social Challenges: Your child may avoid eye contact. They might have yet to respond to their name. They may show little interest in people or toys.
  • Communication Difficulties: Look for delayed speech. Or your child might repeat words without understanding them. They may not use gestures like pointing.
  • Repetitive Behaviors: A child with autism may flap their hands. They might line up toys instead of playing with them. They could insist on routines and get upset with changes.
  • Sensory Sensitivities: Your child may react unusually to sounds, lights, or textures. They could either be overly sensitive or not sensitive enough.

Watch for signs such as:

  • Not smiling at others by six months
  • Not using gestures to communicate by 12 months
  • Not babbling by 12 months
  • Not speaking single words by 16 months
  • Not speaking two-word phrases by 24 months
  • Not reacting to voices, sounds, or their name

Remember, these signs don’t confirm autism. But they suggest you should check with your health care provider.

What to Do If You Notice These Signs

If you think your child may be showing signs of autism, early intervention is critical. Children’s brains are most adaptable and responsive to learning during the first few years of life. Research shows that high-quality early intervention can significantly improve essential skill development. These include communication, social interactions, cognition, and self-care.

So, if you notice signs of autism, document your observations. Talk to your child’s doctor, and stay patient and positive.

Getting a diagnosis of autism is not an end. It’s a beginning. It opens the door to getting the services and support that can help your child thrive.

Accessing therapies early can lead to better long-term outcomes. It reduces the need for intensive support in the future. It can also help foster supportive environments for your child’s growth.

Early intervention can also teach you strategies for navigating the world of autism.

Interested in learning more about the early signs of autism? Visit our website for additional information and how we can help you get started on your child’s journey to success.