This time of year carries so much transition, tradition, and opportunities for connection. We’re still soaking up all things fall, while preparing for what’s to come as we enter into the bustling holiday season. This month offers many moments intended to help us soak in these last moments of autumn, with inclusivity and accessibility in mind.
Discover adventures that embrace the season, offer essential resources and relaxation for parents and caregivers, and foster ongoing community involvement. We hope to make your November memorable by providing entertainment with varying levels of accommodations, ensuring every chosen experience is the best it can be.
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.
November Events for Children with Special Needs
DSI Baby and Toddler Community Group
Ivy Rehab for Kids, 9885 E 116th St., Fishers
Saturday, Nov 8, 10 am-12 pm
Down Syndrome Indiana (DSI) families are invited to participate in this hands-on experience pertaining to gross motor movements and how to guide your little one through these sensory exploration opportunities. In the spirit of parent support and education, an on-site OT will be available for all questions pertaining to rolling, crawling, sitting, walking, etc. All caregivers and grandparents are encouraged to attend to familiarize themselves with the various motor movement activities, and registration is required to attend.
DSI Black Family Village of DSI Fall Harvest Fest
Edna Martin Christian Center/37 Place Community Center 2605 E. 25th Street, Indianapolis
Saturday, Nov 15, 12 pm
Register in advance for this special DSI family event, sure to include an abundance of fun! Fall isn’t over, and this is the perfect opportunity to squeeze in one more autumnal celebration before the rush of the holiday season. Play with friends, laugh, and come as you are!
You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Sensory-Friendly Performance)
Waldron Auditorium, 122 S Walnut St, Bloomington
Nov 16, 4 pm
If you’re ready to try out a 60-minute musical experience, built entirely around sensory-friendly preferences, this one’s for you! Comforting accommodations include ambient lighting during the show, the freedom to talk and move as needed, no lights with strobing effects, minimization of potentially startling noises, and a room full of people who just get it. This experience promises to be as fun and inclusive as they come! Ticket prices start at $10, with an additional $3 venue preservation fee, but guests are invited to “Pay What You Will” over this amount as a donation to the venue. “Bring your fidgets, your noise-reducing headphones or earplugs, and the whole family! To ensure you have an overview of what to expect for the show, please find ticketing and other detailed information through Constellation Stage & Screen.
DSI Private Showing of Wicked: For Good
GQT Lebanon 7, 1600 N Lebanon St, Lebanon
Sunday, Nov 23, 2:30 pm (movie start time)
Ready for a movie experience that’s truly magical? You’re invited to a private viewing of Wicked: For Good, the follow-up to last year’s popular hit. This special event is exclusively for our friends with Down syndrome and their families, with a relaxed atmosphere to ensure everyone feels comfortable and has a great time at the show! Ticket registration is available through DSI, and is specially reserved for individuals with Down syndrome and their immediate family members.
Parent Events
Mousse and Massages
Chapple House Therapies, 6169 W 300 N N8, Greenfield
Monday, Nov 10, 7 pm-9 pm
Are you a parent or caregiver of an individual with disabilities, and in need of a little pampering? You don’t wanna miss this! This truly special R&R experience comes complete with soothing ambient music, treats, and a massage, and even free child care to fully embody peace of mind. Registration is required, so be sure to sign up in advance to experience a night of blissful indulgence.
DSI Mom’s Brunch
The Tea Room of Rustic Root, Address: 626 Main Street, Beech Grove
Saturday, Nov 22, 11 am
It’s tea time! You’re invited to share, laugh, and connect with other moms and family members in the Down syndrome community. If you’re ready to sit back and sip a deliciously warm cup of tea, be sure to RSVP and register for this event through DSI.
Recurring Events
Sensory Friendly Play
Urban Air Adventure Park, 14450 Mundy Drive, Noblesville
Sunday (1st Sunday of every month), Nov 2, 9 am-11 am
An excellent opportunity to let your kiddos get some extra wiggles out, with less overall sensory input. While the sounds of fun might be heard throughout the park, noises are reduced and flashing lights are eliminated for a more comfortable experience. This event is intentionally planned to be welcoming for children with autism who thrive with these additional supports, so they can have a blast in a setting designed just for them. See the Urban Air website for fees and additional details.
All Ages Adaptive Dance Class
Hancock Wellness Center, 8535 N Clearview Drive, McCordsville
Thursday, Nov 6, 5 pm-6 pm
While you do not have to be a resident of Hancock County to attend, registration is required to dance your heart out at this FREE, all-ages event. Siblings are also welcome to join in on the fun, though supervision is required for all children under 18.
First Fridays
ArtMix, 1505 N Delaware St, Indianapolis
Friday (1st Friday of every month), Nov 7, 6 pm-9 pm
While this event is not exclusively a special needs experience, the ArtMix embraces the sensory-different and special needs community with a warm welcome. At First Fridays, artists and their masterpieces will be on full display, with pieces available for sale, so you can take a part of the experience home with you! This event is free and open to the public. Talent and fun await!
The Arc of Hancock County Game Night
DDSi, 5999 W Memory Ln Ste C, Greenfield
Tuesday, Nov 11, 2 pm-4 pm
Do you have an older kiddo who would thrive joining an inclusive afternoon with game-loving peers? Siblings are not only invited, but encouraged to attend this monthly meet-up, which provides a safe and welcoming space for those with disabilities aged 15-25 years old. Attendees can expect a mix of card and board games, as well as light snacks and drinks. To ensure plenty of refreshments for all, registration is required before attending.
Bilingual Storytime with ASL
College Avenue Library Branch, 4180 N College Ave, Indianapolis
Saturday, Nov 15, 10:30 am-11 am
An inclusive event for Deaf and hearing kiddos alike! This program includes a story, songs, and an interactive ASL opportunity. Great for babies, school-aged children, and their families to attend and learn through immersion.
Sensory Friendly Afternoons
Indiana State Museum, 650 W. Washington St, Indianapolis
Sunday, Nov 16, 3 pm-5 pm
Visit the State Museum for an inviting and inclusive experience for those with sensory processing differences. Lights will be lowered, and sensory stations will be placed throughout the museum to create a calming atmosphere. Sensory bags are also available for patrons as needed. Please be sure to check the Indiana State Museum website for additional admission details.
Bilingual Storytime with ASL
Lawrence Library Branch, 7898 Hague Rd, Indianapolis
Wednesday, Nov 19, 10:30 am-11 am
An inclusive event for Deaf and hearing kiddos alike! This program includes a story, songs, and an interactive ASL opportunity. Great for babies, school-aged children, and their families to attend and learn through immersion.
The Arc of Hancock County BINGO
Shares Inc, 645 S State St, Greenfield
Friday, Nov 21, 4:30 pm-5:30 pm
Has your kiddo ever had the chance to experience the chill thrills of a good game of BINGO? Connect with the community at this all-ages, inclusive event. With the potential for prizes included, the whole family is sure to enjoy whatever the night may bring! Attendees do not need to be residents of Hancock County to participate, but do need to register in advance. Children 18 and under require adult supervision at all times.
Locations with Full-Time Accessibility Resources
The Children’s Museum, 3000 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis
At the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, accommodations such as dedicated quiet spaces, maps, and checklists are available to ensure a comfortable and well-planned trip for your family. Be sure to check their website for up-to-date hours for your visit, and keep an eye out for the next Museum My Way opportunity coming in December! Tickets will be limited, available beginning November 10th, to experience the museum in a comfortable, sensory-friendly setting.
Looking for adaptive sports, art, or music classes? Check out our guide to opportunities around Central Indiana.
Does your child use a wheelchair? Check out FLOW – a unique adaptive dance class provided by Kids Dance Outreach.
