Sensory friendly activities in Pennsylvania are a wonderful way for families with kids who have special needs to enjoy fun, inclusive experiences together. These activities create spaces that are comfortable for children with different sensory processing needs; they help kids feel at ease and ready to explore.
Sometimes, traditional settings can be a bit too much for kids with sensory sensitivities. Loud noises, bright lights, or crowded places can make it hard for them to play, learn, and connect with others. That’s why it’s super important to have accommodating environments that help reduce anxiety and encourage kids to engage.
With the right activities and spaces, every child can discover new interests and have a great time with their family. This guide features a variety of sensory friendly attractions and events across Pennsylvania, making it easier for you to find enjoyable and supportive experiences for your family.
The Please Touch Museum is a children’s museum created to make sure kids feel comfortable and happy. It has special sensory-friendly programs and events where you can explore the exhibits in a quieter, calmer atmosphere. You’ll find cozy, quiet spaces to take a break and sensory maps to help you explore the museum. This way, you can enjoy everything without feeling overwhelmed.
At The Crayola Experience, they host super fun, sensory-friendly days! During these special events, families can engage in various colorful activities in a relaxed setting. The staff is trained to help kids with sensory needs so everyone can create and play without any stress.
Some of the attractions include:
The Philadelphia Zoo offers sensory-friendly events that make visits enjoyable for families with kids who have special needs. They host Sensory-Friendly Mornings, where families can explore the zoo with smaller crowds, lower music, and quiet areas to relax.
You’ll find Quiet Areas Maps to help you locate peaceful spots throughout the zoo. This way, your family can focus on the amazing animals and have a great time without the usual hustle and bustle.
At the Pittsburgh Zoo & PPG Aquarium, you’ll find thoughtful, sensory-friendly features that make visits enjoyable for families and kids with special needs. The zoo has teamed up with KultureCity to provide visitors with sensory bags containing helpful tools, such as noise-canceling headphones, weighted lap bags, and the KultureCity all-inclusive app. You’ll also find quiet spaces and friendly staff ready to help so your family can enjoy a wonderful day at the zoo.
The Kimmel Center offers sensory-friendly performances that make it easier for families with kids who have sensory sensitivities to enjoy live theater. These shows have special adaptations, like softer sounds and dimmer lights, so everyone can feel comfortable. You and your family can relax knowing that it’s okay to move around or take breaks whenever you need to.
They also provide helpful resources like fidget tools and noise-canceling headphones to make the experience even better. With friendly staff ready to assist, your family can enjoy live performances in a supportive environment.
AMC Theatres teams up with the Autism Society to host sensory-friendly movie showings that create a relaxed atmosphere for families with special needs. During these screenings, the sound is turned down while the lights are turned slightly up, making it easier for kids to enjoy the film without feeling overwhelmed. These showings encourage families to be themselves so kids can walk around or sing along without worrying about bothering anyone.
The Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday of every month for family-friendly movies and on Wednesday evenings for more mature audiences. Families with specific dietary needs can bring their own casein-free or gluten-free snacks.
The Autism Society of Greater Philadelphia offers several sensory-friendly community events and programs that focus on inclusion and fun. These activities are perfect for everyone, including families with special-needs kids.
Local rinks host sensory-friendly skate days where the atmosphere is adjusted to be more comfortable for kids with sensory sensitivities. You can expect lower music volume, softer lighting, and a friendly vibe, making it easier for your family to enjoy skating together.
The Ice Rink at SteelStacks is a great example of a local rink where your kids can have fun skating, no matter their unique needs.
Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse is a fantastic place for kids, especially those with sensory needs. It has features that help kids with sensory processing needs play happily and safely alongside their friends. These features include:
Variety Club’s Camp offers lots of sensory-friendly outdoor activities that are flexible, so your child can join in at their own comfort level. The staff is great at supporting kids with different sensory needs, making sure everyone has a good time.
Some of the programs include the popular Saturday Day Camp, the free Widener After School Program, and Weekend Overnight Retreats that help kids learn independent living skills while giving families a well-deserved break.
At Tyler Arboretum, you’ll find sensory-friendly trails and special events that everyone can enjoy. The trails are easy to walk and create a calming space for you and your family to connect with nature.
Longwood Gardens offers sensory-friendly visiting hours and helpful resources to make your visit more enjoyable. During these times, the atmosphere is adjusted to be more peaceful, so you and your kids can explore the beautiful gardens without feeling overwhelmed.
It’s a good idea to prepare before going on sensory-friendly outings. Here are some helpful tips to make your experience smoother and more enjoyable:
Consider packing a sensory kit with items like fidget toys, soft fabrics, or calming scents. Noise-canceling headphones are also great, especially if your child is sensitive to sounds. Also, don’t forget snacks and water to keep everyone happy and energized.
Before you head out, talk to your child about what to expect. You can look at pictures of the place together or discuss the activities you’ll be doing. This can help them feel more comfortable and excited. If possible, try to visit during less busy times to avoid overwhelming crowds.
Sensory friendly activities in Pennsylvania can really help kids with sensory sensitivities feel comfortable and enjoy themselves. Besides providing lots of fun, these experiences can also help with managing emotions and making friends.
If your child has special needs, like autism, consider checking out the many sensory-friendly activities Pennsylvania has to offer for your family. Need more support or resources? Feel free to reach out to us at Abby Care. We’re always here for you!
https://www.kidsburgh.org/dont-miss-these-9-sensory-friendly-programs-for-kids-in-pittsburgh/
https://beaminghealth.com/after-school-community-activities/philadelphia-19102/all
https://www.belikebuddy.com/sensoryfriendly/pennsylvania
https://www.visitpittsburgh.com/blog/sensory-friendly-guide-to-pittsburgh/
https://paautism.org/resource/hosting-sensory-friendly-event/
