Here’s your February round-up of Indianapolis events planned specifically for children with special needs and their families! We are thrilled to be teaming up with Tendercare Home Health in 2025 to highlight these unique opportunities around our city.
February is full of love and warmth, with plenty of indoor events including holiday parties, sensory-friendly playtime, and adaptive swimming. Escape the cold temps and winter blues and make plans to attend one of these exciting events for children with special needs near you.
This list is created in partnership with Tendercare Home Health. For over 30 years, Tendercare has been helping medically complex children and their families thrive at home. Whether through paying family members to deliver care or connecting children with experienced pediatric nurses, Tendercare strives to enrich children’s lives at home in every way.
February Events for Children with Special Needs
New Year’s Bash at The Haverstick
9111 Haverstick Road, Indianapolis
February 1, 2-5 pm
Come have fun with friends at the New Year’s Bash. This event is held at The Haverstick and is free, but registration is required. During the 4th annual New Year’s Bash, you will see an awesome Talent and Variety show, with an exciting lineup that includes an opening performance by Infinity, a popular local band. Individuals and groups with disabilities/special needs will be able to showcase their talents on stage!
Throughout the event, enjoy light snacks and appetizers, connect with Uniquely You support partners, and discover valuable resources designed to support you or your loved ones on their unique journeys. Don’t miss this wonderful opportunity to celebrate, connect, and enjoy an afternoon of entertainment and community spirit.
Winter Wonderland Dance
Cool Creek Nature Center, 2000 E 151st Street, Carmel
Feb 5, 6-8 pm
Have you seen the community dances posted around town and wondered if they would be a good fit for your child? Well, come check out the Winter Wonderland Dance at the Cool Creek Nature Center Auditorium. Hamilton County Parks and Recreation is excited to announce a Winter Wonderland Sensory-Friendly Dance Night of their 19th annual dance. This special evening will feature softer music, adjusted lighting, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an inclusive space for all to enjoy.
The newly revamped, family-geared Winter Wonderland Dance is open to all couples, whether a parent and child, grandparent and grandchild, or any special duo! Get ready to dance with your special partner, enjoy a winter-themed craft, indulge in a few tasty treats, and preserve your memories at the photo station. We aim to create a special night for guardians and youth of all ages. The event is for all ages and the cost is $5 per person or $10 per couple. If you bring an additional child, it is $3 per child, and registration prior to Jan 31 is required.
Ice Cream Social with Craft Connections
Speedway Event Center, 2608 Founders Square Drive, Speedway
February 22, 2-4 pm
Come join Craft Connections at the Speedway Event Center. This event is for all ages. Registration is required and the cost is $25 per family.
This event is for people with special needs and their immediate family. This welcoming gathering provides an opportunity where you can connect with other parents who understand the journey of raising a child or young adult with special needs & accommodations. Enjoy delicious ice cream, share experiences, and build supportive connections with others in a friendly, judgment-free space. Whether you’re looking for advice, friendship, or simply a chance to unwind, this event is for you!
Fellowship at the Hindu Temple of Central Indiana
Hindu Temple, 3350 N German Church Road, Indianapolis
February 5, 6 pm
Every 1st Wednesday of the month, the Hindu Temple will foster an inclusive environment where all individuals can experience the joy of devotion and connect with their faith. All guardians and parents of devotees with special needs, regardless of age, are encouraged to join this more accessible and comfortable experience for special needs devotees and their families. If you have any questions or suggestions, please contact ravi.dinakaran@htci.org.
Valentine’s Party
Sunpetal Pediatric Therapy, 9505 Delegates Row, Indianapolis
February 8, 10 am-2 pm
Join Sunpetal Pediatric Therapy for a free sensory-friendly Valentine’s event. Sunpetal is a new center-based ABA therapy for children ages 1-10. This holiday event will feature a Valentine-making station, sensory activities, crafts, free play throughout the center, and refreshments!
Storytime at Fort Ben Library
Indianapolis Public Library Fort Ben Branch, 9330 E 56th Street, Indianapolis
February 6, 13, 20 & 27, 10:30-11 am
The All Ages Sensory Friendly Storytime at the Fort Ben Library takes place every Thursday. Everyone is welcome to join us for songs, stories, and crafts followed by Sensory Play, which includes sensory-friendly toys, coloring sheets, and/or a craft.
Fun Fact: The Fort Ben Branch is the first library branch in the state of Indiana to become a Certified Autism Center™ by receiving an international autism accreditation through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
Sensory-Friendly Play at Smiley
Smiley Indianapolis, 5729 E 86th Street, Indianapolis
February 1 & 15, 9-11 am
Come play at Smiley in Castleton on the 1st and 3rd Saturday of every month. Smiley is a fun indoor play area for kids ages 10 and under. They even have a special area for toddlers. On these Saturday mornings, they will decrease or turn off the music, lighting, and air compressor guns. Admission can be purchased for 1 or 2 hours and special Smiley socks are still required to enter the Play Areas. All play areas inside the facility are open, except the arcade during this time.
Sensory Day at the Indiana State Museum
Indiana State Museum, 650 W Washington St, Indianapolis
February 16, 3-5 pm
Each month, the Indiana State Museum will lower the lights and reduce distractions to give children and adults with sensory processing differences a chance to enjoy an interactive learning experience in a comfortable and accepting environment. Social narratives will be available at the ticket counter and sensory-based activities will be spaced throughout the museum. Plus, check out a Sensory Bag to make your experience even more enjoyable.
*Access Pass members need to purchase tickets in person OR call 317.232.1637 to receive discounted prices.
Sensory Swim
Fort Ben YMCA, 5736 Lee Road, Indianapolis
February 9, 16, & 23, 12-4 pm
Bring the whole family to swim at the Sensory swim at the Fort Benjamin Harrison YMCA. Sunday Sensory Swim is designed for individuals and families who are seeking an alternative sensory experience. During this time, the facility will modify the environment to limit sound and light to create a less stressful and calming experience. Lights will be dimmed, water features will be turned off and rules regarding yelling and pushing will be strictly enforced. All individuals and families choosing to attend must register.
This event is free, you do not need to be a member of the YMCA to participate. Remember to bring your towel!
BONUS: Ongoing opportunity!
Adaptive Swim Lessons
Hamilton South Eastern High School, 12499 Olio Rd, Fishers
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! These lessons meet on Tuesday evenings at the high school. The next session of lessons begins in March, and sign-up begins February 8. If you are looking towards the future, summertime lessons will take place on Saturday mornings.
Don’t forget to make those Valentine’s plans with your significant other!
Did you know the Indianapolis Colts have a sensory room and other resources at Lucas Oil Stadium?
