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Sensory-Friendly PLAY Days

Ever get the feeling that some places are just too loud and too chaotic? If you’re feeling that way as an adult, imagine the over-stimulation your kiddos might be feeling. If you or your children are sensitive to noise, crowds and lights, here’s a list of sensory-sensitive PLAY days in the Orlando Metro area.

AMC Theaters Sensory-Friendly Films
AMC is proud to partner with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where they turn the lights up and turn the sound down so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! The Sensory-Friendly Films program is available on the second and fourth Saturday of every month.

Chuck E. Cheese Sensory-Sensitive Sundays
Chuck E. Cheese supports families who have children with autism and special needs by offering a sensory-friendly experience on the first Sunday of every month. Trained and caring staff makes sure each guest has a fun-filled visit. The Sensory-Sensitive Sundays experience includes less crowding and noise, dimmed lighting, music turned off or down, and limited character appearances. Food and games are offered.

Seminole County Public Library Sensory Story-Time
The Seminole County Public Library offers a relaxed, interactive and sensory-friendly story-time designed to increase your child’s comfort level with the library environment. The 2018 schedule alternates between the Oviedo and Casselberry locations on the third Saturday of every month from 11 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.

Orlando Science Center Sensory Sundays
On select Sunday mornings, the Orlando Science Center (OSC) provides sensory-friendly experiences that allow visitors to experience select exhibit halls at quieter volume settings with more light. Visitors will also be able to enjoy a movie with softer volume and more ambient light in the theater. Free to OSC members.

Whole Foods Market Sensory-Friendly Shopping
Whole Foods Market in Winter Park is now offering sensory-friendly shopping experiences on Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. to noon. All lighting and music in the store will be lowered and all overhead announcements will be suspended.

Orlando Repertory Theatre Special Sensory-Friendly Performances
The flashing lights and loud noises that may occur onstage can be unbearable for children with sensory sensitivities. For many children, remaining seated quietly for an extended period of time is a nearly impossible task. Because of these challenges, families that include a child with special needs often do not feel that the world of theater is accessible to them. The Orlando REP now offers sensory-friendly performances so everyone can join in the fun!

Orlando Shakes Sensory-Friendly Performances
The Orlando Shakes recognizes that all children are working to develop appropriate theater engagement skills. Orlando Shakes remains open and flexible to the length of time each child is able to sit with focus and attention, and welcomes all children to engage within their current level of abilities. The Orlando Shakes invites families with a child with a sensory need or other social, cognitive and physical challenges to participate in its Sensory-Friendly Program at select Children’s Series performances.

WonderWorks Sensory Days
WonderWorks hosts Sensory Days, where exhibits are altered to provide limited stimulation for children with special needs. Music in the facility is lowered and loud exhibits and the inversion tunnel are turned off to create a safe environment for kids to enjoy the facility without feeling overwhelmed.

Winter Park Library Sensory Story-Time
The Winter Park Library offers story-times designed for kids with sensory sensitivities. This special experience offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere geared to your child’s unique comfort level.

Written by
Wendy Meyer

Wendy Meyer is a Winter Park mom to son, Beckett, a self-proclaimed #Disnerd and an integral collaborator at PLAYGROUND Magazine. She currently holds the titles of social media manager, events editor and writer. (That's what happens when you're good at everything they throw at ya!) You can read her single-mom musings on her blog: Mommy’s Little Rebel.

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Written by Wendy Meyer

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