Children with autism are often very sensitive to bright lights, loud sounds or music, and bustling atmospheres. This can make it difficult for them to enjoy typical childhood outings because they become over-simulated and may not want to participate.
Fortunately, more and more venues are creating sensory-friendly events for children on the autism spectrum and adults to join in on the fun together. My World ABA lists some great sensory-friendly activities that you can find right here in Springfield, MO.
Springfield Convention and Visitor’s Bureau
The Springfield CVB, a non-profit center aimed at promoting tourism in Springfield, is a Certified Autism Center, meaning at least 80% of its staff is trained in assisting autistic individuals. Their goal is to encourage other organizations to get certified and make Springfield a more inclusive, autism-friendly destination.
Incredible Pizza Company
Incredible Pizza has created a program called Buddies that allows for sensory-friendly play. On the first Saturday of every month from 8:30 to 10 a.m., the game room’s lights are dimmed and sounds turned down to create a quiet and fun atmosphere for gameplay. The cost is $8 for unlimited gameplay.
The game room returns to normal at 10 a.m., but guests can stay and enjoy themselves until the pizza buffet opens at 11 am. For more information, contact the Springfield store at 417-501-0826.
Alamo Drafthouse Cinema
Alamo Drafthouse has Alamo For All, a program that allows for sensory-friendly movie viewings for people of all ages, including infants. The room lights stay on, the sound is turned down, and talking and moving around are permitted during the movie.
All movies shown before 2 p.m. on Tuesdays and Wednesdays follow the Alamo For All requirements, and there are also scheduled showings on Saturdays and Sundays. For more information, contact Alamo Drafthouse at 417-708-9599.
Urban Air
Urban Air, a trampoline and adventure park, has a sensory-friendly play day once a month, typically on the last Tuesday of the month depending on holidays. The sensory-friendly play lasts from 4 to 8 p.m. During this time, there are no flashing lights, loud noises, or whistles.
You must mention you are there for the sensory-friendly night to get the discounted pricing of $12 per child or $16 for the deluxe pass, and caregivers are free. There is also a discounted meal of two pizza slices and a drink at the cafe if you mention you are there for sensory-free play. For more information, call Urban Air at (417) 210-7889
History Museum on the Square
At the History Museum on the Square, the second Saturday of every month has Sensory Friendly Mornings from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. During this time, general admission applies but lights and sounds will be turned down and quiet spaces will be provided when available. For more information, call the museum at 417-831-1976.
Extra Care Hair Co.
Extra Care Hair Co. provides a sensory-friendly atmosphere for hair cuts. They have several different packages and can tailor the hair haircut experience for each child’s needs. For more information, call Kristen Gossett at (417) 770-4089.
B&B Theater in Ozark, MO
B&B Theater in Ozark has sensory-friendly movies for kids who might not do well in a traditional movie experience. During these movies, the room lights are turned up, the volume is turned down, and the setting is more relaxed. There are also sensory-friendly backpacks available to check out at the front office for all movies, including headphones and sunglasses to make the normal movie experience more calming. For more information, call B&B Theater Ozark/Nixa at (417) 485-4078.
Superstars of Point
Superstars of Point offers dance classes for children with disabilities, including those with Down Syndrome and autism. This non-profit strives to provide extracurricular activities for differently abled children to socialize, build coordination, and have fun. For more information, call the studio at (417) 885-8010.
Related Post: Sensory Overload in ASD: What is Sensory Overload and What Can Parents Do To Help?
My World ABA Autism Services in Springfield, MO
My World ABA is the leading center for ABA treatment in Springfield, MO. Our team works with your child using certified ABA therapy techniques to help them learn more about themselves and the world around them. We support your child by creating an inclusive environment where they can play, build friendships, and be themselves.
To learn more about our services or answer additional questions, visit our website online or call (417) 818-5784 today.
