As an autism mom and a writer for Indy with Kids, over the years I’ve learned a few tricks to make the most of our outings and have been pleasantly surprised to learn that most Indy attractions are pretty accommodating when you ask. Even so, sometimes it’s nice to find adaptive programs in Indianapolis that are geared specifically for our kids. In this list, we’ve rounded up some fantastic organizations that offer adaptive sports, arts classes, and other opportunities designed to be inclusive and welcoming to all.
The opportunites below are ongoing, with program sessions offered year-round or at least annually. While not listed here, we’ve also found that many parks departments and libraries in Central Indiana regularly host special sensory-friendly or adaptive classes, events, or even sports teams. We recommend visiting your local parks department’s or library’s program guide online and searching keywords like “adaptive” or “special needs” to find upcoming events. You can also check out our monthly events guides for children with special needs!
Adaptive Programs in Indianapolis
While we strive to include as many available adaptive programs in Indianapolis as possible in this list, we are aware that it is far from exhaustive. If you’ve found a great opportunity for children with special needs in one of our Central Indiana communities, let us know in the comments!
Spotlight On: Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation
Carmel Clay Parks has invested in providing adaptive programming in a big way. Families can request modifications to participate in any program, but you can also find adaptive programs designed specifically for children with special needs of all ages. These classes tend to rotate seasonally, but you’re likely to find options like kids’ karate, 5k training, yoga, and art programs. Visit their programs page to learn about modifications and see the full line-up of events and classes available. Most adaptive programs are held at the Monon Community Center.
Movie Theaters with Sensory-Friendly Screenings
The lights are turned up, the volume is turned down and kids are given freedom to move and wiggle as much as they need. Click here to see a list of Indy theaters that offer this special treat.
The Arts
Art Mix: Get creative with Community Arts Classes through Art Mix, where people of all ages and abilities can express themselves through different mediums including ceramics, painting, music, and drama. Tuition is on a sliding scale based on household income and scholarships are available.
Jubilate: Jubilate is a choir for children in grades 3-9 with special needs. Singers attend rehearsals once a week along with peer friends from the more advanced Indianapolis Children’s Choirs. While there is a registration fee, tuition for this choir is free and students may join other ICC activities and camps.
The Arc of Hancock County: The Arc serves families of special needs children in a variety of ways, including bringing in professional speakers and offering respite and self-care events for parents and caregivers. But if you have a child who loves music and dance, you’ll want to check out their adaptive dance and ballet programs. Classes require registration but are free. Siblings are welcome to attend, and participants of all ages are invited!
Kids Dance Outreach: KDO’s dance programs are inclusive and free for all participating children and their families. This organization has reached tens of thousands of children to date and continues to grow. There are opportunities designed to fit a variety of abilities, including Adaptive Dance for children with Down Syndrome, Fueling Life on Wheels for children who use wheelchairs, and even an inclusive week-long summer program.
Sports and Fitness
Kids who need to move can find a wide array of special-needs sports and fitness programs all across town. The options below can get you started, but for a more complete list, check out our full adaptive sports directory.
Southeastern Swim School: We all know how important swim lessons are, but finding a good match for kids with unique needs can be challenging. Consider the Adaptive Swim Lessons at Hamilton Southeastern High School. These lessons are given in a 1-on-1 format and the curriculum is individualized for each child’s skill level! At the time of publishing, these lessons meet on Tuesday evenings at the high school. Several sessions are offered throughout the year, including summers.
TOPSoccer: This soccer program offered through IndyPremier in Noblesville is free for children with special needs. Kids will learn soccer skills, but coaches will also help participants develop their motor skills simultaneously.
RHI Adaptive Sports: Young athletes who have suffered a life-altering injury or who live with any physical disbility can reach out to RHI (Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana) to learn more about opportunities to participate in its adaptive sports programs. You’ll find both competitive and non-competitive options, including a wide variety of clinics, competitive teams, wheelchair sports, and even adaptive waterskiing.
Indianapolis Rowing Center Adaptive Rowing: Reach out to the organization’s Adaptive Rowing Coach for more information.Try something new with the help of Indianapolis Rowing Center! Participants with physical challenges and disabilities use adaptive equipment to learn new skills on indoor rowing machines and eventually on the water.
See how Tendercare Home Health is serving children with disabilities in Central Indiana.
Use our guide to find the best accessible playgrounds in our local communities!
