As we prepare to say hello to fall, we’ve compiled a list of sensory-friendly events and activities for our friends with special needs to help keep the feeling of summer fun going. While transitions can be hard on kiddos, we hope these inclusive occasions add a little something to your days as we settle into the autumn season. Be sure to mark your calendars for each of these fun events, and enjoy those memory-making moments.
September boasts some worthy events hosted by local libraries and other organizations specializing in supporting families with children with special needs. While individual needs may differ, these events have a variety of accommodations, including ASL interpreters, low sensory input environments, and whole facilities built specifically for our friends with sensory differences. There are also educational opportunities for loved ones and caregivers to hear from experts on research-based strategies for teaching and supporting individuals with Down Syndrome and those with additional support needs.
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.
September Events for Children with Special Needs
All Ages Adaptive Dance Class
Hancock Wellness Center, 8535 N Clearview Drive, McCordsville
Thursday, Sept 4, 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 event. Siblings are also welcome to join in on the fun, though supervision is required for children under 18.
Ausome Fall Fest
Piney Acres Farm, 1115 E 1000 N, Fortville
Saturday, Sept 13, 11 am-2 pm
If a typical list of fall activities and treats is on your autumnal bucket list, Ausome Indy is hosting an event you’re sure to love! Family fun at this sensory-friendly event includes mining for gems, taking hayrides, and a chance to feed the animals. This event has been thoughtfully planned to support families who are raising children with a diagnosis of Down syndrome or autism, with resource tables available on site. Please register in advance.
Fossil Hunt Expedition Day
Sunpetal Pediatric Therapy, 9505 Delegates Row, Indianapolis
Saturday, Sept 20, 10 am-12 pm
Did somebody say “dinosaurs?” This sensory-friendly event is best suited for ages 2-10, free of cost, and abundant with prehistoric fun! With visual aids, soft sounds, and low lighting, this event is built to be a positive sensory input experience for your littles. Offering plentiful activities alongside their fossil dig, you’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy a sensory den and adopt a dino! Get ready to dig up some fun, and watch the magic unfold as your littles turn into dino-mite paleontologists for the day.
Sensory Friendly Afternoons
Indiana State Museum, 650 W. Washington St., Indianapolis
Sunday, Sept 21, 3 pm-5 pm
An inviting and inclusive experience for those with sensory processing differences! Lights will be lowered, and sensory stations will be placed throughout the museum for a calming atmosphere. Other on-site comforts include sensory bags available to patrons. Be sure to check the Indiana State Museum website for admission details.
Soaring for Autism
Indianapolis International Airport, 7800 Col. H. Weir Cook Memorial Dr, Indianapolis, IN
For information on the next event date, please contact info@inautism.org
This immersive opportunity helps families become familiar with the airport experience prior to the real thing. Families are able to participate in a variety of the usual checkpoints, such as taking the shuttle, visiting the ticket counter, participating in security screening, having an opportunity to visit the sensory room, and even boarding a plane! This includes meeting the pilot and flight attendants, as well as listening to and becoming familiar with the usual announcements. Don’t miss this invaluable experience for families that makes future air travel adventures feel less overwhelming and more accessible for all.
Indoor Playground
We Rock the Spectrum, 13644 North Meridian St, Carmel
Monday-Saturday, 10 am-6 pm; Sunday, 12 pm-5 pm
Looking for a village for your sensory-seeking, neurodivergent kiddos? WRTS is a one-stop shop for an open play gym, birthday parties, classes, and making connections with a community that just gets it. Not only is fun (and functional) equipment readily accessible, but there are also opportunities for arts and crafts, as well as the welcoming environment of the calm room. With snacks and beverages available on site, it truly creates a unique experience to allow your littles to be their true selves for as long as they’re comfortable. Be sure to check their website for special events such as Cut N Play days, where experienced hairstylists are on site and ready to give safe and sensory-friendly haircuts. Story and music times are also available, and events include open gym play. Yoga for moms, too? You bet. Bring your people, or find your people, and come as you are.
ASL Interpreted Events Through The Indianapolis Public Library
College Avenue Branch, 4180 N College Ave, Indianapolis
Play & Learn with Gymboree
Thursday, September 4, 10:30 am-11 am
Ages: Babies and Toddlers, Ages 6 months-36 months
Includes sensory play, songs, and the building blocks of social development.
Bilingual Storytime
Saturday, September 6, 10:30 am-11 am
Ages: School-Age Kids, Preschoolers, Families, Babies and Toddlers
A fully accessible and enjoyable event for Deaf and hearing kiddos alike.
Drag Storytime
Saturday, September 27, 11 am-12 pm
Ages: All Ages
Join in to celebrate diversity in many forms. Featuring entertaining stories and songs to foster a sense of belonging and acceptance. All are encouraged and welcome!
Irvington Branch, 10 S Audubon Rd, Indianapolis
Teen Giveback Day with Riley Cheer Guild
Monday, September 23, 4 pm-6 pm
Ages: Teens
A volunteer opportunity that supports patients at Riley Hospital for the first-ever Giveback Day. Teens wanting to make a difference within their community are invited to come help others and have a good time doing it!
Important note: Register in advance for all library events to ensure a spot at these wonderfully inclusive neighborhood happenings.
September Resources and Informative Events
Together, We Are Better! Special Education Night
Community Foundation of Hancock County, The Thrive Center, 971 US-40, Greenfield
Wednesday, Sept 10, 6 pm-8 pm
At Special Education Night, positive forces within the community come together to offer useful resources to caregivers of students with special needs.
GiGi’s Educator Symposium
Free, Virtual Event Through GiGi’s Playhouse
Saturday, Sept 20, 11 am-3:45 pm
Though designed for educators, this program also welcomes parents and caregivers who play a supportive role in the development of individuals with Down syndrome. Attendees will learn from a curated group of experienced speakers who will share essential strategies and tools needed to help individuals in their care lead full, independent lives.
Pick the perfect pumpkin at these accessible farms.
Independence Park in Greenwood is one of our favorite spots for inclusive, accessible play!
