10 minute read
Local Events
Through Museums for All, those receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can gain free or reduced admission to more than 1,000 museums throughout the United States simply by presenting their EBT card and a photo ID. Check here for participating museums. https://museums4all.org/
Museums
Ella Sharp Museum Sensory Time
Every Saturday at 9-10 a.m.
3225 4th Street, Jackson, Michigan 49203
During sensory-friendly-hours, the Ella Sharp Museum will open its galleries at 9 a.m., one hour before the museum opens to the public. Families with members who are neurodiverse, autistic or have other sensory processing disorders or cognitive disabilities, are welcome to visit for a quieter experience in a controlled environment. Designated quiet zones will allow visitors to decompress and explore the museum at their own pace.
Before each program, families can browse “pre-visit” materials to help prepare for their visit, including social narratives and maps of the facility. These materials are also available to assist families planning visits outside of program hours. A sensory backpack is available at the front desk for use.
To ensure the most sensory-friendly environment possible, capacity during these special hours will be limited to 50 people.
More information is available at ellasharpmuseum.org/classes-and-events/sensory-time/.
Impression 5
Dec. 7 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. and Dec. 17 from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Impression 5 Science Center, 200 Museum Dr., Lansing, MI 48933
Explore the Science Center during Sensory Friendly Hours, with select exhibits modified to reduce sounds, scents and lighting stimuli. Guests can expect limited building capacity, pop-up activities, and a map indicating the sensory experiences in each exhibit.
Thanks to MiABLE for supporting Sensory Friendly.
Admission is regular price; free for members.
More information is available at impression5.org/sensoryfriendly.
Abrams Planetarium Sensory-Friendly Shows
755 Science Road, East Lansing MI 48824
Season of Light
Dec. 21, 11:30 a.m.
Many of the familiar customs that we observe this time of year have an astronomical connection. Our holiday offering explores the traditions that we associate with this special season.
Christmas Constellations
Dec. 21, 1:00 p.m.
When we look at the stars, we can play a giant game of dot-to-dot. We can use our imaginations to come up with amazing things from basic shapes to mythical creatures to our favorite animals. In this show, we will use our imaginations for a search through the stars for holiday themed shapes in the sky. This show is suitable for preschoolers, young elementary aged children, and their families.
These shows will run with the lights up, the sound down and theater doors open so attendees can move around as needed. A “chill out” area is available in the lobby. All shows include a live star talk about what’s visible in the night sky. A short break will occur between the main show and the star talk. Information about what to expect will be provided when tickets are purchased.
Cost: Adults, $5.50; students and senior citizens, $5; children 12 and under, $4.50.
Friends of Abrams Planetarium members: free.
Free with Museums for All (valid EBT, Medicaid or WIC card and photo ID required).
More information: abramsplanetarium.org/Programs/Sensory.html
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum Sensory-Friendly Play
Check website for upcoming events
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, 11 Sheldon Ave. NE, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503
Together with Autism Support of Kent County, Grand Rapids Children’s Museum welcomes families to play in a calmer, quieter environment outside regular museum hours. Registration is required.
Check the calendar for specific sensory-friendly event dates: grpm.org/visit
More info: autismsupportofkentcounty.org/new-products/p/2024-night-at-the-gr-childrens-museum.
Sports
TheraplayYoga: Therapeutic Playful Yoga for Diverse Abilities
Adaptive Yoga Studio, 2015 E. Michigan Ave. Lansing, MI 48912
Inclusive and Accessible Yoga for Diverse Bodies, Brains and Abilities
Check the website for the current schedule.
Email: gloria@theraplayoga.com
Website: theraplayoga.com
Family Fun
Adult Adaptive Social Engagement: Diner's Club
Dec. 1, First Monday of the month.
Enjoy a meal with friends at local restaurants in a welcoming and supportive setting. This program is designed for individuals with special needs and offers an opportunity to build social skills in a fun, inclusive environment.
Participants must be 14 or older and are responsible for the cost of their own meal, beverage and tip. Spots are extremely limited, so pre-registration is required to ensure proper assistance and space.
The selected restaurant will be emailed to registered participants one week before the program.
Check the website for dates, times and registration: rararecreation.org/programs/social_engagement.php
Fascination Factory Sensor-Friendly Play
Dec. 2, 2:30-5:30 p.m.
2295 E Lincoln St; Suite 150, Birmingham, MI
What to expect in our new sensory-sensitive hours: Back door locked for safety, no music,
noise cancelling headphones, and oral chews offered at check-in. Plus a calming corner tent. Minimized Capacity Families $30.00 https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/events/list/?tribe-bar-date=2024-10-01
DNR Outdoor Adventure Center Sensory Friendly Play
Dec. 3, 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Outdoor Adventure Center, Globe Trading Company Building, 1801 Atwater St, Detroit, MI
The DNR Outdoor Adventure Center welcomes individuals and families with sensory processing differences to enjoy special sensory-friendly hours. During this time, building sounds and ambient noise levels will be reduced to create a more comfortable environment.
A quiet room with sensory materials will be available, and building capacity will be limited to ensure a calm experience. Sensory-friendly hours end at noon, when the building opens to the general public and sound levels return to normal.
All staff members are certified through KultureCity to provide the best possible experience for guests with sensory needs.
Various activities are scheduled throughout the month of October. Visit michigan.gov/oac for details.
Together Let’s Sing, Dance and Jam!!
Dec. 3, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Virtual
Please join us for our monthly "virtual" music therapy event!! Please RSVP by February 25 to Cathy Blatnik at blatsie63@yahoo.com with your name, age, contact phone number and e-mail address.
High Caliber Karting – Sensory-Friendly Sundays
Dec. 7, 11:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. Additional dates for regular sessions Dec.14, Dec.21, Dec. 28, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. $50
High Caliber Karting and Entertainment, 1982 W Grand River Ave #800. Okemos, MI 48864
On the first Sunday of every month, High Caliber opens early from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for
sensory-friendly hours. If someone in your life would love to drive a go-kart or play arcade games in a quieter, more accommodating environment, this is the perfect time to visit. High Caliber is committed to creating inclusive experiences for all guests.
Learn more at highcaliberkarting.com/sensory-hours.
Detroit Zoo
Sensory-Friendly Evenings – Second Monday of Every Month
Dec. 8, 9:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.
Throughout 2025, the Detroit Zoo will host Sensory-Friendly Hours—monthly opportunities for guests to experience the Zoo in a more inclusive, calming environment.
Held once a month from opening until noon, these hours are designed for individuals with sensory sensitivities or other sensory needs. The Zoo and its attractions remain open to all guests, with intentional adjustments to lighting and sound to create a more welcoming experience.
Modifications include reduced or altered volume and lighting throughout the Zoo and at select attractions, including the 4D Theater. Effects and lighting in the theater will also be adjusted.
KultureCity sensory bags—equipped with noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools and verbal cue cards—are available for guests who may feel overwhelmed. Bags can be checked out at Customer Care, the 4D Theater and the Park Safety Office. Weighted lap pads and strobe glasses are available upon request.
A designated indoor quiet space is located near the wolf habitat for those in need of a more secure and calming environment.
Sensory-Friendly Hours are included with Zoo admission and free for members. No registration is required.
For more details, visit detroitzoo.org/events/sensory-friendly-hours.
Wild Lights
Dec. 5-7, 11-23, 26-31, Jan. 2-4
Wild Lights has been lighting up the holiday season for more than a decade, and it’s easy to see why! This dazzling event is full of enchanting, animal-themed light sculptures that add a fun, whimsical twist to your festive adventures.
https://detroitzoo.org/events/wild-lights/
Sensory-Friendly Jump at Launch Lansing
Dec. 10, 4-8 p.m. $17
1982 W. Grand River Ave., Okemos, MI 48864
1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month*
Enjoy two hours of specially priced jump time during our sensory-friendly sessions. Additional discounts are available for families with more than one participant.
To create a more comfortable experience, music volume will be reduced and no special effects lighting will be used. Guests may borrow noise-reducing headphones and/or sunglasses free of charge. All rental items must be returned at the end of the visit for sanitation and future use.
Please note: Sensory-Friendly Nights are paused during school and holiday breaks, including Christmas, spring and summer break.
While the park remains open to the public during these evenings, this time typically sees low attendance, providing plenty of space for all guests to enjoy.
Learn more or reserve your spot: launchlansing.centeredgeonline.com.
RARA Movie Night Out
Dec.10
Emagine Theatre Rochester Hills 200 Barclay Circle, Rochester Hills MI 48307
Hosted by RARA Recreation. Enjoy a movie with your friends at the theater one Wednesday a month. You will pay for your own ticket and concessions. Plans are based on the current theater schedule. You must pre-register so that enough assistance is provided and space reserved. Ages 14+. Fee is $6 for residents & non-residents. Register via RARARecreation.org
Milk & Cookies with Santa Hosted by RARA Recreation
Dec. 12, 4-8 p.m.
Rochester Avon Recreation Authority, 500 E Second Rochester, MI
Come to this special event and meet Santa! Take a picture
with him as well as enjoy delicious milk and cookies. Come
Celebrate the Holidays at this festive event with many activities
throughout the night. To register: https://rara.activityreg.com/selectActivity
RARA Candy Cane Hunt
Ages & Times:
Ages 1–4: 5:00 PM
Ages 5–8: 5:30 PM
Ages 9–11: 6:00 PM
(RARA) Fieldhouse is 500 E 2nd St, Rochester, MI
Get into the holiday spirit with this festive, Christmas-themed event—similar to our popular Easter Egg Hunts! Kids will enjoy a cheerful candy cane hunt along with holiday tasty seasonal treats. Please make sure to arrive early as hunts will start right on time!To Register: https://rara.activityreg.com/selectActivity
Inclusive Game Night
Dec. 26, 6-7:30 p.m.
Therapeutic Concepts, LLC 38257 Mound Road, Building D, Sterling Heights, MI
This event is designed for the whole family, with a focus on inclusion, safety, and enjoyment. The cost is $10 per family, and registration is available online at therapeuticconceptsllc.com.
MJR Digital Cinema Sensory-Friendly Film
Check the website for movie times.
100 East Maple Road, Troy, MI, 48083, United States
Arts
GiGi's Playhouse
Monday through Thursday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Friday: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
19799 W. 12 Mile Road Suite L15, Southfield, Michigan
Various fun classes in art, dance, cooking, yoga and more are offered virtually and in person throughout the month.
See the calendar at gigisplayhouse.org/detroit/sfcalendar.
Events
Come Join Scout Troop 1197! First All Inclusive Troop!
4920 Groveland Rd, Ortonville, MI 48462
The only troop of its kind in Michigan, Troop 1197 is currently meeting at O.A.T.S. (Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles) in Ortonville for individuals with special needs ages 11 and older. Designed by experienced scout leaders, the troop offers typical scouting activities, including camping and outdoor skills.
For more information, email walkonoats@gmail.com.
Cheers Gala Hosted by Easterseals/MORC
Dec. 5
1 Concourse Dr, Pontiac, MI 48341
Check website for further details https://morc.easterseals.com/take-action/attend-an-event/cheers-gala
Winter Wonderland Ball Hosted by Rara RecreationDec. 12, 6-8 p.m.
Chief Financial Credit Union Banquet Center: 200 Diversion St, Rochester Hills, MI
Experience the magic of the season at RARA’s Winter Wonderland Ball on December 12th from 6:00pm - 8:00pm at Chief Financial Credit Union! Designed especially for 1st - 5th graders, this festive holiday event will be filled with joy and cheer. Kids will indulge in holiday cookies, snacks, and drinks, twirl on the dance floor, and capture picture-perfect moments on the red carpet. A holiday craft station will inspire creativity, while classic holiday movies set the perfect cozy backdrop. It’s an evening of sparkling lights, seasonal fun, and magical memories that you won’t want to miss! Raffles and goodie bags will close out your night. This dance will be semi-formal. To Register: https://rararecreation.org/events/winter_wonderland_ball.php
Is there a local event for the special needs community you would like us to promote in an upcoming issue? Email us at Jamie.Olson@n2co.com
