It’s July, and summer is in full swing! If your summer includes exploring with friends or family members with special needs, you might be on the lookout for activities that welcome and include kids of ALL abilities. This list is for you!
This year, Indy with Kids has teamed up with Tendercare Home Health to provide monthly event round-ups full of adaptive, inclusive, and sensory-friendly fun. The hot July weather means this month is full of opportunities to splash and swim, as well as indoor events for calming, air-conditioned play. Mark your calendar now and get ready to make some summer memories with your family!
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.
July Events for Children with Special Needs
Adaptive Sensory-Friendly Swim
Monon Community Center Water Park, 1235 Central Park Drive East, Carmel
July 1, 15, & 29, 7:30-9:30 pm
Carmel Clay Parks and Recreation believes everyone should get to enjoy the Waterpark! Register to reserve your spot on these special nights with low crowds and less noise. Float on the lazy river, try out the water slides, or glide through the activity pool in a calm environment, perfect for kids with sensory sensitivities or other disabilities. Cost is $22 per family.
Adaptive Drawing and Painting
Monon Community Center East Building, 1235 Central Park Dr East, Carmel
Mondays, July 7-28, 6-6:45 pm
This art class, taught by artist Zach Lowe, is designed specifically for individuals with disabilities. Over the course of four weekly sessions, students will get the chance to work with a variety of media and materials as they create and practice new techniques. Anyone age 6 and up can register, and the full cost of the program is $75.
ASL-Interpreted Silly Safaris Animal Show
Indianapolis Public Library – Glendale Branch, 3660 E 62nd St, Indianapolis
July 12, 11-11:45 am
The Silly Safaris team, which has brought their amazing animal shows to the Indianapolis area for decades, is back at the library this summer! See animals up close and ask all of your animal questions following the 45-minute adventure. The show on July 12 at the Glendale Branch includes ASL interpretation.
Adaptive/Inclusive Golf Clinic
Eagle Creek Golf Club, 8802 W 56th Street, Indianapolis
July 12, 10:30 am-1:30 pm
Learn the game of golf and build self-confidence alongside peers and experienced instructors at this adaptive golf lesson at Eagle Creek Golf Club. Indy Parks and Recreation hosts this inclusive program for anyone aged 6-13 interested in improving their golf skills or getting started for the first time. The participation fee is $5 per person, and each guest will receive a gift bag, snack, and water.
Museum My Way
The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, 3000 N Meridian St, Indianapolis
July 15, 4-7 pm
The Children’s Museum’s Museum My Way events are perfect for families who would benefit from exploring the exhibits in a quieter, less-crowded environment. Capacity is limited, music is turned down or off, and lighting effects are adapted. For $8 per person, groups of all abilities can play and learn together while exploring the entire second floor of the museum. This includes the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse traveling exhibit and the newly opened Take Me There: Peru experience. Members and children under 2 are free, and the Access Pass discount applies. Register ahead of time.
2025 Disability Inclusion Day at the 4-H Fair
Hendricks Co. 4-H Fairgrounds, 1900 E Main Street, Danville
July 16, 10 am-4 pm
In an effort to allow everyone, regardless of ability, to experience the fun of the county fair, Hendricks County is hosting Disability Inclusion Day at the annual 4-H fair. Bring your family for free admission and parking, transportation on wheelchair-accessible shuttles, sensory-friendly activities, select free carnival rides, free resources, and quiet zones for those who need a break from the excitement.
Adaptive Swim
Franklin Family Aquatic Center, 396 Branigin Blvd, Franklin
Tuesdays and Thursdays in July, 9-10:30 am
This family-friendly swim time, dedicated to those with physical or cognitive disabilities, is offered twice a week at Franklin Family Aquatic Center. Cost is just $2, and a parent or caregiver may accompany their swimmer for free!
Mousse & Massages
Chapple House Therapies, 6169 W 300 N, Greenfield
July 21, 7-9 pm
This event is especially for parents, educators, therapists, and caretakers of individuals with disabilities! The Arc of Hancock County and Chapple House Therapies have teamed up to provide this special evening of self-care, free of charge. Drop your children off for FREE childcare, then indulge in an evening of relaxation. Savor a sweet treat and soak up a “heavenly” massage. You’ve earned some ME time! Registration is required.
Adaptive You Deserve a Break
Rhodius Park Family Center, 1720 W Wilkins Street, Indianapolis
July 26, 10:30 am-1:30 pm
Parents — could you use a few hours on your own to run errands, catch up with a friend, or just grab a cup of coffee and relax? Register your child for this event at Rhodius Park and enjoy 3 hours to yourself, knowing your kiddo is well cared for and entertained. Kids ages 6-12 will participate in gym activities, arts and crafts, and music, and will be provided with a light snack. Cost is $5 per person. Register ahead of time.
Under the Sea Sensory Adventure
Sunpetal Pediatric Therapy, 9505 Delegates Row, Indianapolis
July 26, 10 am-12 pm
Get a peek at the facilities at Sunpetal Pediatric Therapy during this FREE event for kids of all abilities! This summery, ocean-themed morning promises lots of calming sensory activities, planned with kids ages 2-10 in mind.
Smurfs: Sensory-Friendly Screening
AMC Castleton Square 14, 6020 E 82nd Street, Indianapolis
July 26, 9:30 am
See a newly released movie in a sensory-friendly setting at AMC! In partnership with the Autism Society, these screenings feature lower sound and more lighting in the theater. Guests can talk and move as needed during the film. Sensory-Friendly films begin immediately at showtime, without previews, so be sure to arrive on time.
Watch free and discounted family-friendly movies all summer long at these theaters and community venues.
Have you been to Independence Park’s accessible playground in Greenwood?
