Having a child with special needs means putting a little more thought and effort into activities. Luckily, South Jersey is teeming with low-sensory fun that is designed just for your child. These are some of the places where you can relax and enjoy a fun activity together.
Garden State Discovery Museum
2040 Springdale Road, Suite 100, Cherry Hill
discoverymuseum.com
Open Arms family nights are perfect for families with a child on the autism spectrum. There is no cost, and the Discovery Museum remains open from 6 to 8 pm for families to explore and discover, at no charge. You’ll have access to the remarkable, fun-filled exhibits and play areas like the tree house, Dinosaurium and the science shop.
Katz JCC
1301 Springdale Road, Cherry Hill
katzjcc.org
The Achieving Community Hopes and Dreams program teaches individuals with learning challenges skills that will support their social, emotional and physical well-being. The program also has a basketball team for middle and high school students.
Sahara Sam’s Oasis
535 North Route 73, West Berlin
sambulance.org
Sahara Sam’s partners with the Sambulance, a special-needs education program, to put together Special Evenings at Sam’s, or S.E.A.S. During these events, ticket prices are reduced, the arcade is turned off, quiet rooms are available, accessibility is increased and much more. The waterpark is tailored to your child’s needs so you can enjoy a relaxing night at the waterpark.
Diggerland USA
100 Pinedge Drive, West Berlin
diggerlandusa.com
Not a fan of the water? Just head over to Diggerland, where Sambulance puts together Special Abilities Night at Diggerland, or S.A.N.D. Tickets are discounted, ride accommodations are provided, ear plugs are available and the arcade is turned off. The stunt show team also puts on a specialized show just for your child.
SkyZone Trampoline Park
2834 Route 73 North, Maple Shade
skyzone.com/moorestown
On the last Sunday of every month from 7 to 8 pm, Sky Zone Trampoline Park invites children with special needs to enjoy a night of low-sensory jumping. Extra safety measures are taken; extra staff members are added and sounds and lights are reduced. Tickets are $12 per jumper. A limited number of tickets are sold to ensure a small crowd and enjoyable atmosphere.
AMC Loews
2121 Route 38, Cherry Hill
amctheatres.com
AMC Theatres partnered with the Autism Society to display movies for viewers with any special needs. During these showings, the theater lights are on and the sound is turned down so viewers can make as much noise and movement as they want. Movie dates and times vary.
Adventure Aquarium
1 Riverside Drive, Camden
adventureaquarium.com
Adventure Aquarium has classroom lessons designed just for kids with special needs. The aquarium offers two options: I Am A Seastar and Terrific Turtles. The classes are relaxed and encourage movement and vocals. Live animals are present in both, but only the I Am A Seastar class invites students to touch them.
