Tag: autism activities

5 Sensory-Friendly Activities in Cary, NC, for Kids on the Autism Spectrum 

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

Across North Carolina, families can find inclusive spaces designed with sensory needs in mind. From serene nature trails to thoughtfully designed play areas, these environments create opportunities for enjoyable, stress-free outings. 

The Cary community has taken significant steps to create welcome places such as quiet spaces in parks, sensory-friendly events, and recreational programs specifically adapted to support children with sensory sensitivities. These efforts go beyond standard accessibility features, focusing instead on fostering environments where kids can feel at ease and families can connect. 

For families, the availability of such spaces can transform outings, offering opportunities for children to engage, explore, and play in settings designed with their needs in mind. Cary’s focus on inclusivity and accessibility has made it a leader in creating sensory-friendly opportunities, providing families with spaces they can truly enjoy together.  

Here are five sensory-friendly activities in Cary that you and your family can try. 

1. Explore Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve 

Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve features gentle walking trails, shaded areas, and a peaceful environment filled with natural sounds. The scenic setting allows children to explore at their own pace without the overstimulation of busy parks. 

The Stevens Nature Center at Hemlock Bluffs offers interactive exhibits and educational programs, with staff members trained to create a welcoming atmosphere for children with different sensory needs. 

Tip for Families: Visit on weekday mornings for the quietest experience. Bring noise-canceling headphones if your child is sensitive to natural sounds like birds and rustling leaves. 

2. Visit the Sensory-Friendly Play Area at Marla Dorrel Park 

Marla Dorrel Park is home to Kids Together Playground, an inclusive play space designed for children of all abilities. The playground features wide, accessible pathways, shaded play structures, and sensory-friendly elements such as textured surfaces and quiet areas for breaks. 

Kids Together Playground was designed with input from parents of children with disabilities, making it one of the most inclusive play spaces in the region. 

Tip for Families: Visit early in the day or later in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds. Bring a picnic and enjoy the surrounding green space for a relaxing family outing. 

3. Visit Cary’s YMCAs for Adaptive Sports Programs 

Cary’s YMCAs offer adaptive sports programs for children with special needs, including sensory sensitivities. From day camps to summer camps, private swim lessons, and inclusive lacrosse leagues, there are a variety of offerings at different YMCA locations. 

Tip for Families: Contact your neighborhood YMCA to learn about specific programs and schedules that cater to sensory-friendly needs. 

4. Swim at Triangle Aquatic Center’s Adaptive Swim Program  

The Triangle Aquatic Center in Cary offers adaptive swim programs for children with sensory sensitivities. The pool environment is calm, and instructors are trained to work with kids on the autism spectrum, making it a great way to build confidence in the water. 

Tip for Families: Bring your child’s favorite swim gear or toys to help them feel more at ease. 

5. Read and Relax at the Cary Regional Library 

The Cary Regional Library provides a welcoming environment for children who enjoy books and quiet spaces. The library offers designated sensory-friendly story times, where children can listen to stories in a low-stimulation setting with soft lighting and limited background noise. The library also has cozy reading nooks and calming areas where kids can take a break. 

Tip for Families: Ask library staff about quieter times or sensory-friendly events. Bring a favorite book or fidget toy to help your child feel more comfortable. 

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

Looking for additional support for your child in Cary, NC? At Priorities ABA, 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 Cary area and contact us today!   

7 Tips for Snow Day Fun

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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.

  1. 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!

  2. 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!”

  3. 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.

  4. 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!”

  5. 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.

  6. 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.

  7. 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!