12 minute read
Local Events
Is there a local event for the special needs community you would like us to promote in an upcoming issue? Email us at Jamie.olson@n2co.com
Through Museums for All, those receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can gain free or reduced admission to more than 1,000 museums throughout the United States simply by presenting their EBT card and a photo ID. Check here for participating museums. https://museums4all.org/
Museums
Impression 5
Apr. 13, May, 11, June 22 from 9:30 am - 11:30 am and Apr. 16, May 21 and June 18 from 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Impression 5 Science Center, 200 Museum Dr., Lansing, MI 48933
Explore your Science Center with select exhibits altered to reduce sounds, scents, and lighting stimuli. Guests can expect a limited building capacity, pop-up activity, and map designating the sensory experiences in each exhibit. Thank you to MiABLE for supporting Sensory Friendly.
Admission: Regular admission prices apply. Free for members.
Abrams Planetarium Sensory Friendly Shows
755 Science Road, East Lansing, MI
These shows will run with the lights up, the sound down, and the theater doors open so people can move about as needed. We also provide a place to “chill out” in our lobby. All shows include a live star talk about what is up in the sky that night. We will include a short break between the main show and the star talk. Information about what to expect during the show will be provided when you purchase tickets.
Out There: The Quest for Extrasolar
Apr. 27, 11:30 am
Worlds shows how our perception of our place in the Universe has changed and how the discoveries of exoplanets we made in the last decades even surpassed the dreams of science fiction authors.
The Little Star That Could
Apr. 27, 1:00 pm
The story about an average yellow star on a search for planets of his own to warm and protect. Along his way, he encounters other stars, learns what makes each star special, and discovers that stars can combine to form clusters and galaxies. Eventually, Little Star finds his planets, and each is introduced to audiences along with basic information about the Solar System.
Cost: Adults, $5.50, Students and senior citizens, $5.00, Children (age 12 and under), $4.50Friends of Abrams Planetarium Members, FreeFree with Museums For All (with valid EBT, Medicaid, or WIC card and photo ID)
https://www.abramsplanetarium.org/Programs/Sensory.html
Ella Sharp Museum
Sensory Time
Every Saturday at 9:00 am
3225 4th Street, Jackson, Michigan 49203
During Sensory Friendly Hours, the Ella Sharp Museum will open its galleries at 9 a.m., an hour before the museum opens to the public. Families with members who are neurodiverse, autistic, or have other sensory processing disorders or cognitive disabilities are welcome to visit the museum for a quieter experience in a more controlled environment. Designated quiet zones will allow visitors to decompress and experience the museum at their own pace.
Before each program, families are invited to browse our “pre-visit” materials to help them prepare for their visit including social narratives and maps of our facility. These pre-visit materials are also available to help families plan for visits that take place outside of program hours and a sensory backpack is available at the front desk for use.
To provide the most sensory-friendly environment possible, we will limit the capacity for these special times to 50 people. https://ellasharpmuseum.org/classes-and-events/sensory-time/
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
Sensory Friendly Play
May 5, Aug. 4, Nov. 3, 4:00 pm- 7:00 pm
Together with Autism Support of Kent County, GRCM welcomes families to play in a calmer, quieter environment outside of regular Museum hours.
Registration required.
Various Events Scheduled
Jan.1 - Jan. 31 various events scheduled
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, 11 Sheldon Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Check calendar for Sensory Friendly evenings https://www.grpm.org/visit/
https://www.autismsupportofkentcounty.org/new-products/p/2024-night-at-the-gr-childrens-museum
Sports
TheraplayYoga: Therapeutic Playful Yoga for Diverse Abilities
Adaptive Yoga Studio, 2015 E. Michigan Ave. Lansing, MI 48912
Inclusive & Accessible Yoga for Diverse Bodies, Brains, and Abilities. Check website for schedule. Gloria@TheraPLAYoga.com https://theraplayoga.com/
Buddy Soccer Clarkston Adaptive Sports 2025
Buddy Soccer in Clarkston is a non-competitive recreational soccer league for boys and girls ages 7-14 with special needs in Oakland County and Metro Detroit. Each player is paired with a buddy ages 10-17 to assist them on the field during games. Buddy Soccer is hosted by our friends at Independence Township Parks, Recreation, and Seniors.
Buddy Soccer is a 6 week league held on Tuesday evenings from April 15, 2025 through May 20, 2025 from 5:30p-6:30p at Sasahabaw Plains in Clarkston MI. Registration begins January 6, 2025 and ends March 17, 2025. You may register with a late fee if with a $10 charge if spots are still available. Buddy Soccer is open to residents and non-residents.
Register at www.itpr.org
Family Fun
Fascination Factory Sensory Friendly Play
Apr. 1, 2:30 pm- 5:30 pm
2295 E Lincoln St; Suite 150, Birmingham, MI
What to expect in our new sensory sensitive hours: Back door locked for safety No music Noise Cancelling Headphones Oral chews offered at check-in Calming corner tent Minimized Capacity Families $30.00 https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/events/list/?tribe-bar-date=2024-10-01
Together Let’s Sing, Dance and Jam!!
Apr. 2, 6:30 pm- 7:30 pm Virtual
Please join us for our monthly "virtual" music therapy event!! Please RSVP by February 25 to Cathy Blatnik at blatsie63@yahoo.com with your name, age, contact phone number and e-mail address
DNR Outdoor Adventure Center Sensory Friendly Play
Apr. 6, May 4, June 8, July 13, Aug. 10, Oct. 5 10:00 am- 12:00 pm
Outdoor Adventure Center, Globe Trading Company Building, 1801 Atwater St, Detroit, MI
The DNR Outdoor Adventure Center welcomes friends and families with sensory processing differences to our sensory-friendly building hours! Enjoy the opportunity to explore and experience the OAC with building sounds and ambient noises at a lower volume. During your visit, there will be a quiet room with sensory materials available to use, and a limited building capacity. At noon, the building will open to the public, with volumes returning to standard operating levels. All staff are KultureCity-certified to ensure the best possible experience.
Various Activities scheduled Mar. 1- Mar. 31 Check website https://www.michigan.gov/oac
Adult Adaptive Social Engagement: Diner's Club
Apr. 7, First Monday of the month.
Ages 14+ check,website for times and to register enjoy a meal with friends at various local restaurants. This opportunity is designed to support persons with special needs. Participants pay for their own meal, beverage, and tip. Spots are EXTREMELY limited, so you must pre-register so that we have enough assistance and space reserved. Selected restaurant will be emailed the week before the program.
https://rararecreation.org/programs/social_engagement.php
Detroit Zoo
Sensory Friendly Evenings Second Monday of Every Month
Apr. 14, 10:00 am - !2:00 pm
Throughout 2025, we’re bringing you Sensory-Friendly Hours — a monthly opportunity to experience the Zoo with adjusted lighting and quieter surroundings.These special hours, hosted once a month from opening until noon, are tailored to meet the needs of guests with sensory sensitivities and different sensory needs. During this time, the Zoo and its attractions remain open to all, with thoughtful adjustments to ensure everyone can enjoy a welcoming and accessible experience.
Reduced or altered volume and lighting throughout the Zoo and at special attractions
Limited effects and adjusted lighting in the 4D Theater
KultureCity sensory bags equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools and verbal cue cards will be available to guests who may feel overwhelmed by the environment. Guests can check out the bags at Customer Care, the 4D Theater and the Park Safety Office.
Weighted lap pads and strobe glasses are available upon request.
A dedicated indoor space is available near the wolf habitat for those who may need a quieter and more secure space.
Included with Zoo admission | Free for members | No event registration required
https://detroitzoo.org/events/sensory-friendly-hours/
Bunnyville at the Zoo
Apr. 18-19, 9:00 am- 3:00 pm
Spring into fun at Bunnyville, presented by Meijer!
At this annual, family-friendly “egg-stravanza,” you can ring in the season with fun activities — including a golden egg hunt — sure to put a hop in your step.
Put an extra hop in your step by donating canned goods to Gleaners Community Food Bank at Bunnyville! The Zoo is also hopping into the giving spirit — a portion of the weekend’s ticket sales will be donated to Gleaners to help feed our community.
https://detroitzoo.org/events/bunnyville/
Various fun events through the month.
TR Bingo Night
Apr, 18, May 16, 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm
Clintonwood Park, 6000 Clarkston Road, Clarkson, MI 48348
This program is for persons ages 14+ with developmental disabilities, with or without physical limitations. A minimum of 4 participants are required to hold the program. Call 248-625-8223 to register. $10 includes refreshments & game prizes. Hosted by Independence Twp Parks & Recreation.https://app.amilia.com/store/en/independence-township/shop/activities/5678331?date=2025-02-21&view=month&scrollToCalendar=false
Inclusive Game Night
Apr.25, 6:00 pm- 7:30 pm
Therapeutic Concepts, LLC 38257 Mound Road, Building D, Sterling Heights, MI
For the whole family focusing on inclusion, safety, and enjoyment! $10 per family, register online https://therapeuticconceptsllc.com
RARA Recreation Movie and Pizza Night
Apr. 25 Starting at 6:00 pm
RARA Recreation, 500 E Second Street, Rochester, Michigan 48307
Hosted by RARA Recreation. Enjoy a movie and a pizza snack with friends one Friday a month. This opportunity is designed to support persons with special needs. Supervised event. Ages 14+. Fee is $17 for residents and $20 non-residents. Register via RARARecreation.org.
MJR Digital Cinema Sensory-Friendly Film
Check the website for movie times
100 East Maple Road, Troy, MI, 48083, United States
Legoland Discovery Center Michigan Sensory Friendly Morning
Check website for upcoming dates
4240 Baldwin Rd, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
During Sensory Friendly Mornings, we’ll reduce the lighting, turn off music & disable distracting stimuli for an hour before we open to the general public. This event is perfect for our friends on the autism spectrum.
Sensory-sensitive adults are welcome to visit during Sensory Friendly Mornings without a child (age 16 or under) in the party until the attraction opens to the general public at 10 am. Adults who are not accompanied by a child must exit the attraction upon opening. Groups that are accompanied by a child are welcome to stay past 10 am.
Tickets are limited and must be purchased online in advance for this special event.
https://www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/michigan/tickets-passes/
Sealife Michigan Sensory Friendly Morning
Check website for upcoming dates
4316 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
During Sensory Friendly Mornings, we’ll reduce the lighting, turn off music & disable distracting stimuli for an hour before we open to the general public. This event is perfect for our friends on the autism spectrum.
The aquarium will open to the general public with normal lighting, sound, etc. at 10 am, but you're welcome to stay as long as you like and do not have to leave when the event ends at 10 am.
Tickets are limited and must be purchased online in advance for this special event. Please check https://www.visitsealife.com/michigan/what-s-inside/events/sensory-friendly-mornings/
Arts
GiGi's Playhouse
10:00 am- 6:00 pm Monday- Thursday, Friday 10:00 am- 4:00 pm
19799 W. 12 Mile Road Suite L15, Southfield, Michigan
Various fun classes in art, dance, cooking, yoga and many more! Virtual or in person through out the month. See calendar: https://gigisplayhouse.org/detroit/sfcalendar/?eventId=a0VVS000001ahnZ2AQ
Wizard of Oz – Sensory Friendly Performance
Apr. 25, 10:00 am-11:00 am $25
Macomb County Ballet 51504 Danview Technology Ct, Shelby Township, MI
Celebrate the magic of storytelling in this relaxed and inclusive event, perfect for individuals with sensory processing challenges, including autism, or families with young children. Artistic Director Amber Megna Michalik, along with Assistant Directors Hannah Carden, Brandon Koepsell, and Mary Sherman, brings L. Frank Baum’s beloved tale to life through the enchanting art of ballet. Follow Dorothy, the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion as they journey through the whimsical land of Oz in a performance tailored to create a welcoming theater experience for all. Join us as we create a magical and accessible environment for all to enjoy this timeless classic. Purchase tickets at www.macombcenter.com.
Events
Come Join Scout Troop 1197! First All Inclusive Troop!
4920 Groveland Rd, Ortonville, MI 48462
The ONLY troop of its kind in MI, troop 1197 is being held right now at O.A.T.S. (Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles) in Ortonville for those with special needs ages 11 and up. The troop, designed with experienced scout leaders, will include typical scouting activities including camping and outdoor skills. For more information, email walkonoats@gmail.com
Learn About Family Center Conference Scholarships! WebinarApr. 9, 2025, 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm Conferences ignite hope and understanding for parents navigating their child’s diagnosis. They can also foster meaningful connections with other families. Though the expense may pose challenges, the Family Center offers support through a scholarship program for a parent and youth to attend a diagnosis-related conference. Learn more about eligibility and how to apply as well as hear one parent’s story of the benefits of conference participation To register, visit: https://redcap.link/24_25learning
Mobility and Accessibility Clinic
Apr. 29, 11:00 am- 2:00 pm
Oceana County Council on Aging 4250 W. Tyler Rd., Hart, MI
Bring your assistive living devices to our Mobility & Accessibility Clinic. Meet with Carelinc to have basic repairs made to equipment, meet with an advocate from Disability Network and check in with our nurse to have blood pressure checks and ask questions.
Registration is not required, but encouraged. Questions, call us at 231-873-4461 https://disabilitynetworkwm.org/event/mobility-and-accessibility-clinic/
Art From The Heart Hosted by Disability Network Eastern Michigan
May 1, 6:00 pm- 9:00 pm
Italian American Culture Society Banquet & Conference Center, 43843 Romeo Plank Rd #1, Clinton Township, MI
Art, Food, Entertainment and Auction https://www.dnemichigan.org/
Renew Mobility Pediatric Pop-Up
May 2, 1:00 pm- 5:00 pm
2215 29th St. SE Ste. A6, Grand Rapids, MI
We enhance independence for persons with disabilities through access to mobility equipment. We provide continuing equipment education, and maintenance. Our expert staff and volunteers are on hand to educate families and adjust all equipment that we place. Equipment: crutches, bath aids, reverse walkers, pediatric standers, strollers, gait trainers, wheelchairs, hoyer lifts, activity chairs, adaptive aids. For questions: mikayla@renewmobility.org/Register: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pediatric-pop-up-registration-1147283067539
Pathway to Hope Wellness Walk Sponsored by Healing Complex Kids
May 3, 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Innovation Hills, 2800 W Hamlin Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48309
his isn’t just a walk—it’s a step toward real solutions. Your involvement helps Healing Complex Kids continue its 20-year mission of empowering families, offering guidance, and fostering breakthroughs in special needs care. We're so excited to share this with you! Stay tuned for more information - and meanwhile mark your calendar healingcomplexkids.org
