Finding fun and accommodating activities for families with children with disabilities can be challenging, but we are here to help. Our resources page offers a curated list of outings and experiences designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all family members. Whether you're looking for sensory friendly events, or creative indoor activities, we provide thoughtful suggestions to make your time together smooth and memorable!
AUTISM WELCOMING
For parents and guardians looking for events and activities to do with their families, Autism Welcoming offers a large database of inclusive businesses to choose from! Each business provided has been trained by Autism Welcoming and has received certifications to ensure that each business is qualified to support you and your loved ones. The data base includes more than just family fun. They also provide options for restaurants, dentists, and more! Click here to see more!
AUSTIM WELCOMING CENTERS
This center, located at the Natick Mall in Natick, MA, offers a supportive space for guests with autism and their families. When open, guests can utilize their sensory space and calm corner!
Here are some of our staff-favorite inclusive options for families!
ACTON DISCOVERY MUSEUM
The Acton Discovery Museum hosts "Especially for Me" events! the museum offers autism friendly evening with dedicated hours. Check out their website for more information, including a social story and sensory map of their location. Limited capacity, pre-registration is required.
CINEMAS
Multiple movie theaters in Massachusetts offer accommodating showings for guests!
- O'Neil Cinemas in Littleton, MA offers "sensory friendly flix"! These showings include no loud noises and higher house lights for better visibility. All shows are at 10:00am. Check out their website to view their listings.
- AMC offers family friendly, sensory friendly films on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Their participating locations include Burlington, Dartmouth, Framingham, Methuen, and Tyngsboro. Click here for more information!
- Regal Cinema's "My Way Matinee" provides a safe space for families to express themselves while watching new films on select Saturdays of each month. Participating locations include Bellingham, Hyannis, and Marlborough. Check out their listings for this month on their website!
NATICK MALL
Many stores located at the Natick Mall have been certified by Autism Welcoming, including:
- Build-A-Bear Workshop
- California Pizza Kitchen
- Dave & Buster's
- Jam Time Indoor Play and Enrichment Center
- Learning Express
- Lush Cosmetics
- Warby Parker
WE ROCK THE SPECTRUM
We Rock the Spectrum located in Wellesley, MA is a kid's gym designed to accommodate children on the spectrum in a safe, clean environment designed to help them flourish. With specially-designed sensory play equipment, all children can come play while practicing skills such as gross motor skills, social skills, self-regulation, and more! Click here to view their website!