Sensory Friendly Events in NJ

Bright lights, loud music, big crowds! These are all things we have become accustom to when attending an event, concert or even a museum. For many, this is just par for the course, but for families with children that have special needs, this can be a nightmare. Kids (and adults) with sensory issues often miss out on experiences other individuals their age get to enjoy. Even just a trip to the movies on a Saturday afternoon can be a trying experience for kids with sensory needs or aversions.

Many kids on the autism spectrum have difficulties processing sensory information. They can be overly sensitive to lights, sounds and even touch. In addition, some kids seek sensory input constantly which means they need to move around or feel pressure. No matter what the sensory need, finding experiences the entire family can enjoy can be difficult. Last year, we shared a list of theaters in NJ that offer sensory friendly shows. Now, I would like to share some exciting sensory friendly events families of all abilities will LOVE!

Sensory Friendly Events in NJ

Special Evenings at Sahara Sam’s Oasis (SEAS)

Sahara Sam’s Oasis offers fun and judgement free experiences the entire family can enjoy. Each event, which is made possible by SAMBULANCE Saftey Squad, takes into consideration the sensory needs of children with special needs. There are quiet rooms available, modified lighting and sound, limited ticket sales and a relaxed dress code. Arcade games are also turned of and lifeguards use their whistles sparingly. Check Sahara Sams website to find out the next SEAS event. To learn more read our review of this sensory friendly experience.

AMC Sensory Friendly Films

AMC has proudly partnered with the Autism Society to offer sensory friendly movie experiences. During these events, the lights are on, the sound is lowered and kids can move about the theatre as needed. The films take place 2nd and 4th Tuesday and Saturday and include new releases such as Boss Baby, Smurfs and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. Check your local AMC for times and details.

Sky Zone Cares

Sky Zones throughout NJ offer a program called Sky Zone Cares which is open jump for kids with special needs. To address sensory needs, the sound is lowered and the staff to jumper ratio is increased. The amount of jumpers is also limited which decreases the stress of large crowds. Check your local Sky Zone for dates and times.

Open Arms at Garden State Discovery Museum

Throughout the year, the Garden State Discovery Museum opens it doors to kids with sensory needs. During Open Arms night families can explore the museum while interacting with other families with children on the autism spectrum. This event is FREE and does not require pre-registration.

Flight Fit N Fun

At the Cliffwood location, Flight Fit N Fun offers Sensory Friendly Jump. From 6-8 pm on the first Thursday of the month is reserved for jumpers that prefer a quieter experience.  Jumping on a trampoline is wonderful exercise helping to build strength and balance.

NJ Theatre

There are so many amazing theaters throughout NJ that offer sensory friendly performances. During these events, the lights are left on, the music is lower than regular shows and kids are allowed to move about their seats. Many places also allow families to bring their own snacks as well as offer quiet areas. Check out our list of Sensory Friendly Theaters in NJ.

Chuck E Cheese’s Sensory Sensitive Sundays

Chuck E. Cheese’s has announced that they will be offering sensory friendly experiences the first Sunday of every month. Chuck E. Cheese will be open from 9am-11am for children with autism and other special needs. The event will offer reduced lighting and noise along with trained and caring staff to help kids enjoy fun games.

 

Jump Altitude

In Woodbridge, another trampoline park, Jump Altitude has opened its doors to be all inclusive.  The first Sunday of the month from 10 am – 12pm, is a quiet and toned down jumping experience.

Liberty Science Center

 

We love Liberty Science Center! The experiential exhibits and hands on learning also hosts Special Needs Days.  Each Special Needs Day includes live science presentations, theatre shows and fun activities. Pre-registration is required but we like that this event is an entire day.

Get Air

In Freehold, Get Air offers a dedicated time on Saturday mornings for individuals with special needs to burn some energy in a quiet environment. One parent or guardian can support the jumper without paying the admission fee.  While the music is lowered, the environment is more calm. Check out Get Air’s website for more information.

Special Abilities Night at Diggerland (SAND)

Like SEAS (mentioned above), SAND offers fun and judgement free experiences the entire family can enjoy. Each event, which is made possible by SAMBULANCE Saftey Squad, takes into consideration the sensory needs of children with special needs. There is modified lighting and sound, limited ticket sales and ear plugs available to reduce sound. To learn more read our review of this sensory friendly experience.

Sensory Bounce Therapy

I recently learned about a Sensory Bounce Therapy program run by Miriam Skydell and Associates Pediatric Therapy Services. They offer sensory friendly bounce experiences at locations across NJ. This program is geared for kids with autism, ADHD, social skill delays and motor deficits. Locations include: Bounce U in Paramus and Marlboro, Pump It Up in Randolph, Roselle Park and Freehold and Jumpnazium in Fairfield. Times and prices may vary by location.

Raritan Valley Community College Planetarium

While the shows at planetarium are appropriate for those of all ages, the sensory friendly shows are designed to be inclusive for those on the autism spectrum or developmentally delayed. The doors remain open so visitors can leave the room if they choose and return, and the lights are dimly lit as opposed to completely dark. Music is played at a reduced level and played at a consistent level. For more information of times and dates, check the website.

Bonus Locations in Pennsylvania:

Sensory Friendly Hours at Choo Choo Barn 

On the 2nd Tuesday of each month from 5:30pm – 7pm, the Choo Choo Barn opens its doors to children with sensory needs. This is the 4th year of this amazing program for which the museum has consulted with local autism experts to make a pleasant experience for kids on the spectrum. Some loud noises and bright lights have been turned off during these events. For more information, visit their website.

Access to Science at The Academy of Natural Sciences

 

On select nights, The Academy opens its doors to families with children on the autism spectrum. The event is pay-what-you-wish and does not require pre-registration. The next event will be announced soon. The Academy also offers Museum Stories that helps prepare children for a visit to the museum. The stories are designed specifically for children with developmental disabilities. You can download the stories and maps on their website.

Sensory Friendly Sunday at Franklin Institute

 

On select Sundays during the year, The Franklin Institute offers a comfortable environment for children and adults with sensory needs. During these events, exhibits are modified, staff and volunteers are available to answer questions and quiet spaces are available.  Check the Franklin website to find out about upcoming dates.

Bonus Locations in New York City:

American Museum of Natural History

On select Saturdays, those on the Autism Spectrum can receive a 40 minute tour starting at 9am. Tour Guides are specially trained to offer an educational and pleasant experience. Afterwards, visitors can explore the Discovery Room. When the doors open to the public, visitors can stay. For more information visit the AMNH website.

Intrepid Museum

Eight times a year the Intrepid Museum offers either early morning or evening hours for individuals on the Autism Spectrum. For children ages 8-13, the doors are opened early while at night the doors at night for teens (14+) and adults. While programs are FREE, pre-registration is required which can be accessed through the website.

Lincoln Center 

Lincoln Center opens the door for tours that meet a wide variety of needs including those on the autism spectrum. The website states that the tours need to be scheduled at least three weeks in advance but notify them two weeks in advance of the specific accommodations needed.

I hope you have found this list helpful in finding an event your entire family will love.

Please check back as we will be adding to this list as we find more sensory friendly experiences for your family!

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