11 minute read
Local Events
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
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.
One Sky
May 18, 11:30 am
One Sky Project is an international collaboration focused on increasing understanding about cultural and indigenous astronomy, its historical and modern applications, and how our One Sky connects us all. Each short film represents the perspective of a different culture or Indigenous society from around the globe. Each film stands alone as a short story or in combination as a longer narrative – organized around themes of "Finding Patterns" and developing tools, or as we say, "To Seek Far."
We Are Stars
May 18, 1:00 pm
What are we made of? Where did it all come from? Explore the secrets of our cosmic chemistry, and our explosive origins. Connect life on Earth to the evolution of the Universe by following the formation of Hydrogen atoms to the synthesis of Carbon, and the molecules for life. Narrated by Andy Serkis.
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
High Caliber Karting – Sensory Friendly Sundays
May 4,11:00 am - 2:00 pm $50High Caliber Karting and Entertainment1982 W Grand River Ave #800. Okemos, MI 48864
The first Sunday of every month, High Caliber offers Sensory Friendly Hours from 11 am – 2 pm! Got someone in your life who would love to drive a go kart or play some arcade games but needs it to be sensory friendly? High Caliber is making strides and opening its facility earlier on the first Sunday of every month! https://highcaliberkarting.com/sensory-hours/
DNR Outdoor Adventure Center Sensory Friendly Play
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 May 1- May 31 Check website https://www.michigan.gov/oac
Adult Adaptive Social Engagement: Diner's Club
May 5, 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
Fascination Factory Sensory Friendly Play
May 6, 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!!
May 7, 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
Detroit Zoo
Sensory Friendly Evenings Second Monday of Every Month
May 12, 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/
TR Bingo Night
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
May 30, 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
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
Art from the Heart Celebration
May 1, 6:00 pm- 9:00 pm
Italian American Culture Society Banquet & Conference Center, 43843 Romeo Plank Rd #1Clinton Township, MI 48038
Art, food, auction and entertainment https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/event/art-from-the-heart-celebration/
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
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
Henry Ford Sensory Friendly Giant Screen Experience: "Train Time"
May 10, 11:00 am- 11:40 am Free
Join us at The Henry Ford’s Giant Screen Experience for a customized movie experience designed for those with autism spectrum disorder/sensory processing disorder and their loved ones. Each month we will feature a different film pulled from our regular schedule of high-quality educational documentaries for families.
To register: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd14DOp_xLD0-k5NPxzdfKpSZM8_SAcJISYXHeMCx6UQt7PmQ/viewform
Sibshops
May 10, 10:30 am- 1:30 pm $20
Monaghan Banquet Center 19801 Farmington Rd, Livonia, MI
Our Sibshops groups are play-based and offer a therapeutic environment, although they are not formal therapy sessions. During the groups, time is spent playing games, connecting with peers who share similar experiences, eating, laughing, and discussing the joys and challenges of having a sibling with special needs. We also occasionally invite guest speakers, such as older siblings or professionals who work with individuals with special needs, to answer questions and provide education. Contact: Dawn Smith,dawnsmith@restorativetherapysolutions.com to register
Walk for Autism
May 18, 12:00 pm- 4:00 pm
Autism Support of Kent County160 68th Street SouthwestGrand Rapids, MI, 49548
Join us in May at LMCU Ballpark for our Walk for Autism—an uplifting day of unity and family fun. Explore our Resource Fair, enjoy family-friendly activities, and witness teams competing to raise the most funds for ASK. The highlight? A heartwarming walk around the ballpark and baseball field, symbolizing our journey toward a more inclusive world. Every step and donation directly supports ASK's crucial programs. Lace up and step with us toward a brighter future for the autism community. For more information and to register https://www.autismsupportofkentcounty.org/events/community-events/2024/5/19/walk-for-autism-89ea4
