Embrace the coming autumn chill with the warmth of friends! We’ve gathered some of the best ideas for our community to come together and get cozy this fall. We can’t wait to share all of the autumn goodness in store for October – helping you plan many sweet moments at upcoming events put on by some truly special and accommodating organizations. With everything from story times and sensory-friendly events to recurring game nights and parent resources, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for can’t-miss fun!
These thoughtfully planned offerings are sprinkled throughout the Indy metro (with a couple of special features slightly beyond our area!) and ensure you and your family have your choice of diverse, comfort-minded ways to celebrate the season. With more treats than tricks, a delightfully spooky(ish) time is sure to be had by all!
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.
October Events for Children with Special Needs
All Ages Adaptive Dance Class
Hancock Wellness Center, 8535 N Clearview Drive, McCordsville
Thursday, October 2, 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 children under 18.
Bilingual Storytime
College Avenue Library Branch, 4180 N College Ave, Indianapolis
Saturday, October 4, 10:30 am-11 am
An inclusive and enjoyable event for Deaf and hearing kiddos alike! This program includes a story, songs, and an interactive opportunity to learn ASL signs relative to the chosen story. Great for babies through school-aged children and their families to attend and learn through immersion.
Ausome Safety Fair
Harmony Church parking lot, 5693 Broyles Rd, Avon
Saturday, October 4, 11 am-1 pm
Get ready for fun while brushing up on some life-saving skills at this all-ages event! Local emergency service providers will offer CPR demonstrations and training on how to handle choking, while focusing on the unique needs of nonspeaking children. Not only does this event feature many resources and tool-kits in the world of safety knowledge, but kiddos will feel welcome and entertained through sensory play and crafts. Be sure to RSVP in advance, as registration is required for this event.
Ausome Spooky Touch a Truck
Estes Trucking, 2530 S Tibbs Ave, Indianapolis
Saturday, October 11, 2 pm-3:30 pm NO LIGHTS/SIRENS, 3:30 pm-4:00 pm LIGHTS/SIRENS ON
Get your RSVP in and don’t miss this opportunity for your truck-loving littles! School buses and emergency vehicles will be on site for kids to safely venture up to as they are curious. As a bonus, each Ausome kiddo will enjoy a free lemonade, courtesy of BeeFree Gluten Free Bakes. This event also includes sensory support available to maximize the ease of exploration.
The Arc of Hancock County Game Night
DDSi, 5999 W Memory Ln ste C, Greenfield
Saturday, October 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 meant to be a safe space for those with disabilities, ages 15-25 years old. Attendees can expect a mix of card and board games, as well as light snacks and drinks, while partaking in the afternoon fun. To ensure plenty of refreshments for all, registration is required before attending.
Zoo Boo
Indianapolis Zoo, 1200 W Washington St, Indianapolis
Wednesday, October 15 & 29, 2 pm-7 pm
These distinctively sensory-friendly days offer a unique and low-stimulation experience, ensuring comfort for guests with sensory processing differences. Music will be reduced, and quiet rooms and sensory bags will be available to all guests. The zoo will modify many events and attractions, including lowering music in the gift shop, turning off carousel lights and sound, and reducing sound during the beloved dolphin presentation. Please note that no changes will be made to the lighting in the dolphin pavilion. Weighted lap pads will also be available, and are a standard accessibility service for all zoo visits.
Sensory Friendly Afternoons
Indiana State Museum, 650 W. Washington St., Indianapolis
Sunday, October 19, 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. Be sure to check the Indiana State Museum website for admission details.
The Arc of Hancock County BINGO
Shares Inc, 645 S State St, Greenfield
Friday, October 17, 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.
Fall Family Festival
Borgmann Farm, 2615 S 700 W, New Palestine
Saturday, October 18, 4 pm-8 pm
A joint effort by FUSE and DDSi, you’re sure to fall for an evening packed with classic autumnal fun! This event has been intentionally curated for the special needs community and includes pumpkin painting, hayrides, Trunk or Treat, a lively dance contest, and a petting zoo – all in an environment focused on inclusivity and connection. Of course, costumes are encouraged for this spooktacular barnyard bash. You are also welcome to extend an invitation to your friends and family! Register in advance to be sure your family has properly RSVPed to dance and celebrate the night away. (*NOTE: Pre-orders for on-site meals are required to be made by October 3, while vendor treats and hot beverages will be readily available.)
D.A.D.S. Hayride
D.A.D.S. HayrideSpencer’s U-Pick Farm, 7177 E. 161st St., Noblesville
Saturday, October 25, 3 pm-7 pm
Join in on this free event to partake in all things fall! This annual hayride (and more!) has proven to be a wonderful tradition for local families supporting individuals with Down syndrome. With an abundance of fun to be had, be sure to treat yourselves to S’mores, try your hand at the various games, and make connections in a relaxed and casual setting. Packing a picnic blanket or chairs and registering in advance will help with proper planning for a wonderfully eventful autumn evening.
Fall Festival
Hobson Farm, 2301 W Strawberry Road, Rockville
Saturday, October 25, 11 am
Down Syndrome Indiana Terre Haute is excited to host this event for their families within the DSI community, and lean into the season with plenty of fall adventures and outdoor activities! With admission and lunch costs covered, the event is free to attend. Just be sure to RSVP for this wonderful opportunity. Gluten-free food options will be available and prepared with care for those needing dietary accommodations.
Buddy Walk & Boo Fest
Exploration Acres, 6042 Newcastle Rd, Lafayette
Saturday, October 25, 10 am
A special event to honor and uplift those with Down syndrome; costumes will be donned, funds will be raised, and smiles will dazzle at this celebrated event. Sign up today, and wow the DSI community with your themed team costumes!
The Spookley Trunk or Treat
Remark-Able Ranch, 1184 Remarkable Pl, Greenfield
Sunday, October 26, 2 pm-4 pm
A spooky, cute time awaits with Spookley and friends! With a wonderful lineup of activities and vendors, this is an inclusive event you won’t want to miss. Come for the trunk or treat, but stay for the cow costume contest, face painting, and the abundant disability resource vendors! It promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience with photo opportunities with highland cows, while keeping the family comfortable during the adventure with self-care and sensory activities. This family-friendly event is free, but registration is required to attend. A great opportunity to make connections and memories in a meaningful way!
Parent Resources
Cuenta Conmigo
Down Syndrome Indiana, 615 N Alabama St, Ste 219, Indianapolis
Wednesday, October 1, 6 pm-8 pm
Spanish-speaking parents of children with Down syndrome gather to discuss a multitude of related topics, with on-site childcare provided.
Find accessible parks and playgrounds in Indianapolis.
Soak up some fall fun at the most wheelchair-friendly pumpkin patches in Central Indiana.
