ML Interest Tag: sensory-sensitive

A Sensory-Friendly Aquatic Presentation and Other Inclusive Activities

by Maria Chambers

The hustle and bustle that’s bundled with everyday life for our littlest friends can be tough on a kid with special needs. That’s why some local kid-centric businesses and performance groups block off specific times where the noise is dialed back, lights are dimmed, crowds are kept small and kids are, well, free to be themselves! Read on to learn about a special Blue Man Group performance and museums, play spaces, theatres, a gym and more that keep special needs kids in mind when developing their programming.

photo: Chicago Children’s Museum

YEAR-ROUND ACTIVITIES

Play for All at Chicago Children’s Museum
On the second Saturday of every month from 9 a.m.-10 a.m., Chicago Children’s Museum invites children with disabilities and their families to experience playful, multi-sensory exhibits for a special Play for All private hour. The first 250 visitors to register receive FREE admission.  CCM opens to the public at 10 a.m. and Play For All families are welcome to stay and continue exploring the museum all day. Note: Pre-registration is required.

Outside of the second Saturday of the month opportunity, the museum has sound-reducing headphones, lap trays for wheelchairs, personal museum schedules, visual rule cards, an online Therapeutic Play Guide, a partnership with Francis W. Parker School to provide specially-trained student guides for your child and the entire museum is wheelchair accessible.

Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave., Navy Pier; Online: chicagochildrensmuseum.org

Get cultured with a Red Kite Project
Chicago Children’s Theatre created the Red Kite Project to bring on-going theatrical adventures, dynamic learning opportunities and camps to children on the autism spectrum and their families.

Every Monday, 4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m., kids in grades 5-12 can participate in Red Kite Presents Shakespeare and Autism where the Hunter Heartbeat method is utilized to help participants navigate the social and communicative barriers of autism. This class is designed for neurodiverse learners to develop imaginative play skills, engage positively with their peers and learn how to work together as an ensemble.

The Station, 100 South Racine Ave., West Loop; Online: chicagochildrenstheatre.org

We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym
We Rock the Gym is a safe space for kids all across the spectrum where apologies are never needed and uniqueness is celebrated. They’re committed to providing all children a fun, motivational environment to help increase strength and improve movement, sensory processing, communication, social interactions and self-care skills, while also incorporating positive behavior modification. Offerings include structured class times and open play sessions with drop-in and membership opportunities.

We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym, 553 E. Dundee, Palatine; Online: werockthespectrumchicagopalatine.com

Jump, jump, jump around at Airtastic
Start your week off with jumps at Airtastic’s Music FREE Mondays. They turn off the music to remove extra noise that can bother some children.

Airtastic, 850 S. Frontenac St., Aurora; Online: airtastic.com

photo: Blue Man Group via Caroline Talbot Photography

Blue Man Group goes sensory-friendly
Blue Man Group offers an annual sensory-friendly performance which includes slight modifications, such as dim lighting, bean bags, calm environment and quiet corners to better accommodate individuals with autism. Sound levels are reduced at select moments and noise isolating headphones also available upon request. Keep tabs on their website for future dates.

Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted, Lakeview; Online: blueman.com

Special needs screenings at Studio Movie Grill
Studio Movie Grill hosts family-friendly movies free for children with special needs and their siblings with the purchase of an adult ticket. These special screenings are shown with the lights up and the volume lowered. Don’t worry if your movie date likes to stay on the move, children are free to move around, talk and even dance in the aisle. All screenings are shown at 11 a.m. on select dates.

Studio Movie Grill, 301 Rice Lake Square, Wheaton, 630-480-9557; Online: studiomoviegrill.com 

photo: Shedd Aquarium

Fish around for fun times at Shedd Aquarium
Shedd Aquarium’s inclusion program, Calm Waters, extends hours on select days exclusively for persons with disabilities. These evenings include a Caribbean Reef dive, during which you can watch a scuba diver explore the habitat alongside the animals, a 4-D Experience that combines the elements of a 3-D film with additional sensory effects like water mist and bubbles, plus an opportunity to learn how Shedd’s marine mammal trainers care for the animals. Check their website for dates and times.

photo: Shedd Aquarium 

Shedd Aquarium is offering visitors a low-sensory aquatic presentation on Thursdays at 3:30 p.m. and on the last Sunday every month for the last presentation of the day. Shedd’s low sensory aquatic presentations have reduced volume, dimmed lighting and all flashing lights are removed.

Before you visit Shedd, download their sensory-friendly app designed for guests with autism and sensory-processing disorders in mind. It includes video social guides that offer information on individual exhibit spaces, including photos, tips on temperature and noise levels. The app also includes a visual schedule, communication tools, sensory-friendly maps and more tips to plan your visit, set expectations and ease anxiety. And for our Spanish-speaking friends, a Spanish version is now available.

In addition, the aquarium has created a quiet room providing a dedicated space that can be used as a calming room, prayer room or place to privately recharge mobility devices.

Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus, 312-939-2438; Online: sheddaquarium.org

Have wild fun at Lincoln Park Zoo
While Lincoln Park Zoo doesn’t have set times to bring kids who need special accommodations, they do have a great resource guide on their website giving tips on best times to come and which animal houses are the quietest, have lighting that’s comforting or are all-together sensory neutral. They also give information on best places to park, have wheelchairs available for rent with $20 deposit, ASL guides for the deaf and sighted guides for visually impaired visitors.

Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Lincoln Park, 312-742-2000; Online: lpzoo.org/accessibility

photo: The Field Museum via Maria Chambers

Visit the dinos at The Field Museum
The Field Museum understands that some kiddos may have specific sensory processing needs in order to have a great museum experience. For that very reason, they open the doors to the Crown Family PlayLap one hour early on select Saturdays, so families can enjoy a crowd-free space. There are tactile opportunities and sensory tools to help ensure an enjoyable experience for all.

The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus; Online: fieldmuseum.org

Popcorn and a show at AMC
AMC partners with the Autism Society to offer specialized movie showings where the lights are turned up and the sound down so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or belt out a tune. The Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday of every month.

Check for theaters and listings near you at amctheatres.com

Photo: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago via Maria Chambers

Play Well Days at LEGOLAND Discovery
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago and Austim Speaks teamed up to provide a sensory-friendly LEGO experience the first Saturday of every month. Special accommodations will be made during Play Well Days including reduction of sound and lights, quiet spaces, a reduced center capacity, staff training by Autism Speaks and earplugs are provided, if requested.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago, 601 N. Martingale Dr., Schaumburg; Online: chicago.legolanddiscoverycenter.com

Reach for the clouds at Sky High Sports
Every Tuesday, Sky High Sports turns off the music, dims the lights and dials down the distractions for the comfort of their guests. Jump sessions for kids with special needs and their families is a passion project for Sky High founder Jerry Raymond. The father of a special needs son, Jerry has witnessed how jumping can help improve motor and sensory skills, social interaction and overall fitness for kids and young adults. Times of the jump vary by location, so check the website for the location nearest you before heading to jump.

Sky High Sports, 6424 Howard St., Niles; Online: nil.skyhighsports.com or 2244 Corporate Lane, Naperville; Online: nap.skyhighsports.com

photo: Brookfield Zoo

Go blue at Brookfield Zoo
For the last 4 years, Brookfield Zoo has hosted Autism Awareness in April, where they dye the fountain blue and have special activities — like crafting, quieted carousel rides, tailored Zoo Chats with animals and designated areas for quiet time geared toward special needs families. If you’re visiting on a day outside of the designated Autism Awareness Day, you can pick up a BZ Care Kit for free that includes noise-reducing headphones, hard copies of visual schedules, autism stickers and safety alert badges and ID bracelets in case a child gets separated.

Also good to note, Brookfield Zoo has an online map that shows quiet spaces throughout the zoo where you can duck into when needed. They also have wheelchairs and Electronic Convenience Vehicles available for rent, ASL interpreters upon request and those with disabilities are not required to wait in any lines. They have a robust Accessibility Guide online that’s worth a look through before your zoo visit, as well.

Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd., Brookfield; Online: czs.org

Family Night Out at DuPage Children’s Museum
DuPage Children’s Museum’s Family Night Out provides an evening of play and learning for children on the autism spectrum and other sensory processing disorders, as well as physical disabilities. Check their website for dates.

If you find a member of your crew needs a break from the action, let a DCM worker show you to the Quiet Room. You’ll find a soft couch, dimmed blue lights and a calming marble wall full of light and touch sensations. TIP: After school and early evening are often quieter times for family or therapeutic visits.

DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville; 630-637-8000; Online: dupagechildrens.org

photo: Morton Arboretum

Take a nature walk at Morton Arboretum
A trip to the Arboretum is a great first ingredient for a good day for both kids and parents. It’s a fun place to explore and develop a love of the great outdoors. While they don’t have specific hours that target families with special needs, they do offer a thorough resource page on their website to help navigate the Arboretum comfortably and special Visual Schedule books are available at the Information Desk in the Visitor Center on a first-come, first-served basis. The book helps guests plan their visit and is designed specifically for individuals on the autism spectrum or with learning or development disabilities.

To expand your nature walks beyond Morton Arboretum, check out our story Hiking Trails That Even Toddlers Will Love.

Morton Arboretum, 4100 IL Rte. 53, Lisle; Online: mortonarb.org

Take a swim with JCC
JCC Chicago has created an All-In Swim program for children on the autism spectrum designed to teach water safety and swim skills in a comfortable, supportive environment. Their unique curriculum focuses on valuable life-saving techniques, recreational swim therapy and increased independence and self-esteem. Each class incorporates creative games and play, as well as visual instruction such as picture cards. For certain sensory sensitivities, textured mats, wet suits, water toys and flotation devices may be used to maximize the experience. With seven levels of learning, students will make progress at their own pace.

If JCC Chicago isn’t convenient for you, reach out to one of the pools in our story 7 Swimming Schools That Will Float Your Boat to inquire about your child’s unique needs.

Programs available in West Rogers Park and Northbrook; Online: jccchicago.org

photo: Autism Speaks

HOW TO SUPPORT

Walk Now for Autism Speaks
This no-pressure, three-mile walk takes place in two locations in the spring, downtown Chicago and Northfield. The downtown walk takes you leisurely by the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium and along the lakefront. Strollers — and even Radio Flyer wagons — are welcome. And, that’s right: no registration fees. You won’t get a T-shirt unless you raise at least $150 for Autism Speaks, but anyone is welcome to participate, whether or not you choose to fundraise. This annual event also features an after-party with kid lures like inflatable bouncers, sensory sensitive activities and a petting zoo.

Find out more at autismspeaks.org

— Maria Chambers

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NYC Autism-Friendly Museums, Theaters & Programs

by Mimi O'Connor

Looking for autism-friendly events for kids in NYC? We found lots of sensory-friendly and inclusive performances, museum programs and opening hours throughout the city, as well as story times, movie screenings, and more for kids on the spectrum or with special needs. In addition to sensory-friendly programming and events, many museums and theaters offer visual guides, social narratives, sensory maps, and in some cases, even aids on site to make sure your outing is as fun and enjoyable as it can be.

The New Victory Theater

Jeremy Daniel

One of our favorite theaters for kids in NYC is the New Victory Theater. (Check out what they have on stage this season here.) And one of the reasons we love them is their ongoing efforts to reach audiences of all kinds. 

In consultation with Autism Friendly Spaces, Inc., select performances at the New Victory are adapted for individuals on the autism spectrum or with sensory sensitivity, with modified lighting and sound, a judgement-free atmosphere and calming corner and activity area. Additionally, Autism Specialists are available throughout the performances to provide assistance as requested or needed. See what shows currently offer sensory-friendly performances here. 

LC Kids Relaxed Performances

Theatre des Petites Ames

Another venue for sensory-sensitive theater is Lincoln Center. The organization’s LC Kids program offers relaxed performances adapted for neurodiverse audiences, including children with autism or other disabilities. At these performances, there are no restrictions around noise or movement, audience members are welcome to leave and re-enter the theater, and adjustments are made to these productions to reduce sensory stimuli.

Lincoln Center also offers Passport to the Arts: A Program for Children with Disabilities and their Families, which includes programming across the complex’s many venues, including the New York City Ballet, the Metropolitan Opera, the New York Philharmonic and the Big Apple Circus, the last of which holds autism-friendly performances and Circus of the Senses. Register for the program here. 

TDF Autism Friendly Performances

Paul L via Yelp

For autism-friendly performances of big Broadway shows, check out TDF Autism Friendly Performances. These Broadway musicals are presented in a supportive environment for children and adults who are diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder or other sensitivity issues and their families and friends. 

Titles include Frozen, The Lion King, Aladdin, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and others. You can see the list of upcoming performances here.

Kaiser's Room

Kaiser's Room

Kaiser’s Room  offers arts-based classes in dance and acting aimed at social and skill development. Classes are inclusive and for all ages and held in a safe and supportive environment. You can read more about classes here, and they also run a summer camp for kids ages seven and up. 

The organization also produces a sensory-friendly, interactive theater piece throughout the year, Treasure in NYC.

This winter, Kaiser's Room is staging a unique show on December 14 for people with developmental delays. Adventure in Winter Wonderland is a 45-minute multi-sensory, interactive theatrical experience. Five performers take a maximum of seven "Junior Adventure Guides" on a search for holiday presents in a safe environment. The show includes singing songs, making new friends, and using your imagination.

Sat., Dec. 14. Noon-1p.m.
Tickets: $35/participant (families watch for free)
The Studio Lab 
32 Sixth Ave.
Soho
Online: kaisersroom.org

Marlene Meyerson JCC

iStock

The Center for Special Needs at the Marlene Meyerson JCC offers classes and programming that is open to the community. Classes, which have a high staff-to-child ratio include supportive gymnastic and swimming, as well as events for teens, parents and siblings.

The Samuel Priest Rose Building
334 Amsterdam Ave at 76th St.
Upper West Side 
646-505-4444
Online: jccmanhattan.org

Liberty Science Center

Liberty Science Center

The Liberty Science Center in Jersey City offers a Sensory Map, which idenitifes areas in the building with bright lights, high volume, tight spaces, strong smells, live animals, and other points to help people plan their visit. You can download it here. 

The museum also developed a Social Narrative Map that helps prepare learners for the new experience and environment of visiting the museum. You can download it here. 

The museum also hosts Special Needs Days for school groups, that require pre-registration. Find more info here.

Liberty Science Center
222 Jersey City Blvd.
Liberty State Park
201-200-1000
Online: lsc.org

Guggenheim for All at The Guggenheim Museum

Jennifer H. via Yelp

A drop-in program designed for families with children ages six and up, Guggenheim for All invites children on the autism spectrum and their families to explore works of art in sensory-friendly experiences in the galleries and create their own art in the studio. It’s free, although registration is required. 

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
1071 5th Ave.
Upper East Side
212-423-3500
Online: guggenheim.org

Family Fun for All at the Whitney Museum of American Art 

Whitney Museum of American Art

Every three months the Whitney invites families with children ages six and up on the autism spectrum to enjoy sensory-friendly gallery activities and a hands-on art-making workshop before the Museum opens to the general public. Families explore a current Whitney exhibition and create their own art inspired by works on view. Registration is required. 

The museum also has a social narrative that can be downloaded here. 

The Whitney Museum of American Art
99 Ganservoort St.
Meatpacking District
212-570-3633
Online: whitney.org

The Metropolitan Museum of Art Discoveries Program

Vivian L. via Yelp

The Metropolitan Museum of Art has developed a robust library of museum-specific resources for visitors on the Autism Spectrum, including tips for parents,  sensory-friendly maps, social narratives, a “My Met Tour”, a visual checklist and tour, and an interactive map. 

The Museum also hosts a monthly Discoveries program for children and adults with a range of developmental and learning disabilities and those on the autism spectrum. These multi-sensory workshops, which explore a different theme each session include tactile opportunities and art-making activities. Workshops are free, but you must register, which you can do by calling 212-650-2010 or emailing access@metmuseum.org. 

Metropolitan Museum of Art
1000 5th Ave.
Upper East Side
212-535-7710
Online: metmuseum.org

The American Museum of Natural History: Discovery Squad Tours 

ryan p via yelp

The Discovery Squad is a unique tour program designed for families affected by autism spectrum disorders. Developed in collaboration with the Seaver Autism Center at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, the tours take place before the museum is open to the public, and are free with regular museum admission. Click here for upcoming tour dates. Advance registration is required; email accessibility@amnh.org or call 212-313-7565 to register. 

American Museum of Natural History
Central Park West & 79th St.
Upper West Side
212-769-5100
Online: amnh.org

Access Family Programs at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum 

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum 

The Intrepid offers many resources and programs for children on the autism spectrum. You can access social narratives, sensory guides, and visual vocabularies prior to a visit, and sensory bags, containing noise-cancelling headphones, fidget toys, and other tools can be borrowed as well. 

On the programming front, the Intrepid Museum offers Early Morning Openings and for children ages three to 18 and their families, when they can experience the Museum in a sensory-friendly environment. In the morning, educators lead short, interactive tours designed for all learners, as well as drop-in art activities and structured social/play opportunities. 

The Intrepid Museum also offers monthly programs for children (ages 5-17) with learning and developmental disabilities. Similar family programs for teens ages 15 and older and adults with developmental disabilities are offered six times a year. These two-hour programs take place on select Sundays during regular Museum hours. Families take a guided, interactive tour of the museum and participate in art-making activities. 

Advance registration is required.

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Pier 86
West 46th St. & 12th Ave.
Midtown Manhattan
Tickets: $25 Adults; $18 children 5-12 (free for 4 and under)
Online: intrepidmuseum.org

Access Family Workshops at The Jewish Museum

Jewish Museum

These workshops invite visitors with learning or developmental disabilities to examine current exhibits and permanent works in the museum and then create a work of their own. Workshops include gallery activities and an art project. For more information or to register for a workshop, call 212.423.3289 or email access@thejm.org. 

Jewish Museum
1109 5th Ave.
Upper East Side
212-423-3200
Online: thejewishmuseum.org

Sensory Room at Brooklyn Children's Museum

Brooklyn Children's Museum

Created with an advisory committee of scholars and professionals with experience serving children with Autism Spectrum Disorders the Brooklyn Children's Museum's Sensory Room is an inclusive space where children of all abilities can engage with their peers and explore their senses. Sessions in the space are balanced between self-guided exploration of the space and a facilitated program by one of BCM’s Educators. Let the educator facilitating know if your child has any particular needs or sensitivities.

145 Brooklyn Ave.
Crown Heights
718-735-4400
Online: brooklynkids.org

Alamo for All at Alamo Theaters

Alamo Draft House

The Alamo Draft House Alamo for All program is for young families and guests with special needs. (So the audience may include some new moms with babies, and the films aren't always for kids.) Screenings feature reduced sound, the lights turned up, and noise and latecomers are allowed. You can also move around if you need to. 

 The first showings of each film on Tuesdays follow Alamo for All rules, with more shows on the weekends.  Note that the schedule may vary during holidays.  Click here to see what's screening now.

445 Albee Square
Downtown Brooklyn
718-513-2547
Online: drafthouse.com

Sensory Friendly Film Program at AMC Theaters

Yanira M. via Yelp

AMC Theaters partners with the Autism Society to offer movie showings when the lights are up, the sound is down, and you can move around as you please. The Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday of every month for family-friendly films and Tuesday evenings (for mature flicks).  You can find AMC locations in Bay Plaza in the Bronx and Magic Johnson Theater  in Harlem. Check your local theatre listings for specific showtimes. 

Online: amctheatres.com

Sensory Storytime and Events at Your Local Library

iStock

It’s well-known that libraries host loads of events for kids of all ages, from LEGO play to sing-alongs and holiday happenings. Among them, is Sensory Storytime, a fun and interactive library literacy program designed to engage kids through movement, music, stories, and sensory activity play. Open to all, the program and is ideal for children with autism spectrum disorders, sensory integration challenges, or children who have difficulty sitting still.

Search New York Public Library Events calendar for this and other special events for sensory-sensitive kids in Manhattan, the Bronx and Staten Island. 

The Brooklyn Public Library  hosts inclusive story times at branches throughout the borough.

In Queens, the Astoria branch hosts Circle of Friends for children 6-13 years old with autism spectrum disorder. The program’s goal is to help children learn social skills through simple science experiments, art projects, and board games. The branch holds reading with therapy dogs for kids; advance registration is required for those; call 718-278-2220 to do so.

Also in Queens, select branches host sensory-friendly story times. Search the Queens Library events calendar for info.

Programs at the New York Transit Museum

New York Transit Museum

The New York Transit Museum hosts a wide variety of events and programs for New Yorkers with special needs as part of its Access Programs. 

One Special Day for Special Kids, the museum invites children with disabilities and their families to explore the space while it is closed to the public for the first hour of the day. The event includes free admission, fun activities about transit, and a quiet room.  Special Day for Special Kids takes place three times a year (next one is March 2020), and registration is strongly recommended. All ages are welcome. 

Subway Sleuths is an after-school program for students in 2nd through 5th grades who are on the autism spectrum. The program uses a shared interest in trains among kids on the autism spectrum as a means to encourage peer-to-peer interaction and develop social skills and confidence. Subway Sleuth groups are created through advance screenings by expert facilitators, who curate groups of kids with similar social and communication profiles. Applications are typically due in September of each year. Read more about the program here. 

Boerum Place at Schermerhorn Street
Downtown Brooklyn 
718-694-1600
Online: nytransitmuseum.org

featured image: Brooklyn Children’s Museum 

—Mimi O’Connor

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Why Don’t We Talk about This More Often?

By Brooke Brown

Photo: IECL

Why do I tear up every time I hear or read a good parenting book? There’s no way to experience transformational growth as fast and as intensely as when you parent a child. No one told me parenting would not only be physically and emotionally challenging, but also so psychologically revealing. I have cried, scoffed and resented my parents in every parenting article and book I read. It puts a spotlight on my own unhappy inner child and forces me to reconcile with the push-over, permissive parenting of my mother with the autocratic, demanding punitive st‌yle of my father. Learning how much they didn’t get right or better said how much I was committed to changing the dynamic and how I wanted to show up differently for my son, has not only made me a better parent, but also helped me re-parent myself and heal old emotional wounds.

No therapist has been able to trigger me and target my emotional baggage and unmet needs as quickly and as effectively as raising a child has.  In an ironic twist of fate, my kid is often just like me—forcing me to look into the mirror over and over again until I dig deep for compassion or see beauty in what may initially be hard to watch. For me, those are really inspiring outcomes. Yet there are many days when it seems like brain surgery to rewire neuro pathways and retrain my instinctual reactions that I have to activate within seconds of an unexpected fire drill.

How do you keep it all together during a sleep-deprived, rushed morning and positively manage a whining, clumsy, non-compliant, sensory sensitive kid? How do I not feel shame and embarrassment when my child darts out of the airport security line and runs for the automatic doors towards on-coming cars? How do you ignore the head-shaking disgust from other onlookers and not want to shame yourself and your child? It takes a lot of internal work, stamina, self-restraint and re-parenting to summon your composure, find a way to connect and then sternly correct the behavior with your kid and in you. That’s the honest truth that no one talks about at baby showers, in hallmark cards or even in parenting workshops.  This kid is hitting all your hot buttons and triggers that was traumatic to you growing up and fragmented your own identify and feelings of self-worth. Yet you’re supposed to leap over that land mine, summon your Martha Stewart manners and smile like a lucky Stepford wife. Ha! Juggling so many strong emotions all the while loving yourself is the magic trick of parenting.

I may never be able to get my aging parents to change or apologize for their parenting faux-pas. Instead I can choose to replay the tape inside and softly connect with that child that so desperately wanted to belong and be understood just as I would my own son.  So I am really parenting two kids at the same time and when I don’t get it right some days I remember to be just as compassionate to myself as I would my son. There will always be more opportunities to try again and change the conversation from within or with my son. I thank my effort, forgive myself, remember I can only control my reactions and then try again using my own elastic bubblegum brain. If I model this, even if it means giving myself a time out for some deep breaths, my son will also model it for himself.  With some success, I’ve learned there’s nothing more valuable than teaching my kid that mistakes are “beautiful oopsies” or opportunities for growth and connection. I don’t always lean into the vulnerability, but when I do, I make best friends with both my inner child and my son.

Some days are a roller coaster ride. There are days I feel overwhelmed, inadequate and unequipped to even handle my own juvenile emotions, and moments when I am elated to redefine what parenting means.  Inevitably my mom shows up in me and feelings of distaste come up from her permissive, unstructured parenting st‌yle and I want to scream and grab back control, but I also remember there was independence and creativity in that freedom. When my dictator dad shows up, I remember there was some security and respect in structure, rules and in saying no. I also like to remind myself that I don’t own the whole parenting process. My son will also be taught and parented by his teachers, friends, neighbors and even by nature, so I don’t need to feel like I need to lay down the hammer that hard. I never have to play the same role exactly as they played it, but I can re-frame what their roles meant and find a happy middle between the two that’s all my own and connects both me and my kid. Outsiders may judge from time to time, but I get to set the pace for my growth and know intuitively what feels right as I work to make it look easy pulling the rabbit out of the hat and other tricks of illusion.

Holding the honorable position of parent, gives me an opportunity to not just re-frame the role, but also re-experience it in a new way. For instance, instead of being thrown into the pool against my will and forced to learn to swim with anxiety at my side, I can teach my son at his own pace and nurture him with encouragement along the way. I enjoy watching him get playful in the water because when he’s playing, he’s also learning and letting go of his fears and some of mine too. When I share the outdoors with my son and point out all the beauty along a long hike, I get to let my own playful kid outside and share my appreciation for nature as I had dreamed my parents would have done with me.  Like a choose-your-own-adventure book, I get to recreate my past and turn the sour memories and experiences into fuel that nourishes myself and my kid in a much more rewarding way. Parenting is a gift in this way—forcing you to shake hands with your enemies, confront your fears and accelerate your growth and emotional maturity.

I’ll never again underestimate the job of parenting and stay-at-home parents. Working a corporate office job may be taxing at times, but parenting is relentless and so much like the environment of an emergency room where you’re triaging a constant barrage of emotional and physical wounds day and night with often no staff to help delegate or offload the work to. I have great appreciation of the parent who squeezes in self-care along with thank you notes, visual reminders, checklists, routines, habits, schedules to maintain sanity, consistency and prevent the bleeding. I read about their perfectionist ways on revenue-generating blogs, see their Pinterest pages of immaculate play rooms with white couches and watch their assembly-line, perfectly timed mornings on YouTube, but I know that structure will eventually be tested and break. Why? Your kids will eventually find a way to shine a mirror into you and cause the inner child within to breakdown. That means screaming profanities, bawling in the shower, late-night drinking, or thinking up ways to run away and quit.

They want you to grow up and branch out too. I’m convinced they push to help you define your own boundaries and values for your own inner kid. Perhaps it’s the cycle of life or it’s evolution or it’s the process of uncovering your divine purpose, but I like to think my son is really in the stands with all my role models rooting for me to get on the field and take advantage of this opportunity for transformational growth. Intuitively they know, on the other side is an experience of pure joy, confidence and self-love—the same hopes we have for them.

I am a single working parent of a differently wired son with ADHD. We go on many adventures together and are always teaching each other new ways to love and find compassion for ourselves. I love learning about parenting and connecting with other parents.

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7 Fresh Picks from Pillowfort’s Awesome New Sensory-Friendly Line at Target

by Erica Loop

Target is expanding its popular home brand! Pillowfort’s sensory-friendly line for kids is here and includes nearly 20 pieces, ranging from $19.99 to $99.99. The big red bullseye retailer’s new collection features everything from weighted blankets to crash pads—and it’s all available in store or online at Target.com.

Senior vice president, owned brand management and product design, Julie Guggemos said, “With our Cat & Jack and Universal Thread adaptive and sensory-friendly apparel, we’ve seen that little details can have a huge impact. I’m so proud to bring that spirit of inclusivity and incredible design to Pillowfort’s new sensory-friendly assortment, which hopefully can bring more ease and joy to our guests’ everyday lives.”

Read on for some of our top picks from this stylish, sensory-friendly collection!

Pineapple Sensory Floor Cushion Yellow

Use this sensory-friendly cushion ($29.99) on the floor as seating or for a snug hug. 

Sensory Support Pillow

The U-shaped pillow ($44.99) is perfect for bedtime support or just lounging. Pair this with the Adaptive Cocoon Snuggle Ball to make an armchair!

Sensory-Friendly Cocoon Seat

The cocoon seat ($74.99) is made from a velvet material, making it extra-soft. Add the Adaptive U-Shaped Support Lounger with Pockets to make a full-on chair.

Sensory-Friendly Rocking Activity Chair

This Pillowfort product combines form and function. The activity chair ($49.99) has a contoured seat, wipeable surface and the ability to help your kiddo calm themselves.

Waterproof Weighted Blanket

The six-pound weighted blanket ($50) promotes relaxation in a completely cozy way. And bonus, it has a washable cover too!

Sensory-Friendly Hideaway Tent

Give your sensory sensitive child a respite with these awesome indoor tent ($49.99). 

Crash Pad

Help your child to release excess energy with this crash pad ($49.99). The foam filling absorbs impact and the exterior has a machine washable cover. 

—Erica Loop

All photos: Target

 

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Go West! Two New Places to Play in West Seattle

by Helen Walker Green

West Seattle already has tons of activities for families, but now there’s two more reasons to go west—an awesome new play area at Lincoln Park and a new bike playground your little pedalhead is going to love. Sound like fun? Read on to find out why you need to give ’em both a spin this winter.

photo: King County Parks

Hit the Road

Test Your Skills
They may not be ready for the busy streets just yet, but there’s a great place in West Seattle for little cyclists to test drive their road skills and bigger cyclists to brush up on them. The White Center Bike Playground (the first one in our state) has stop signs, intersections, a one-way street and even a roundabout for kids to navigate—all in a safe car-free environment.

photo: Aaron Moy

A Community Project
Based on Denmark’s Trafiklegepladsen (traffic playgrounds) – a big hit with European families – this bike playground was very much a community project. Cascade Bicycle Club, the YES! Foundation of White Center and White Center Community Development Association all worked together with King County Parks to bring it to life. The park was designed, pro bono, by Alta Planning and Design and funded by a King County Parks grant and donations. It’s a great example of how a community can work together to build something that families can enjoy for years to come.

photo: King County Parks

Give it a Spin
Rain or shine, dust off those training wheels and two-wheelers and learn the rules of the road. Cascade Bicycle Club says the bike park is designed for all ages and abilities (grownups included). In an effort to make this a new community hangout, the Club hopes to have its members there on weekends to loan bikes and helmets for anyone who wants to try it out. Psst! The goal is to have summer camps here too, so keep an eye on the Cascade Bicycle Club website for more info.

photo: Cascade Bicycle Club Facebook page 

Good to Know
If all that cycling makes you peckish, check out some great neighborhood eats and activities in White Center. Psst! You can even catch a game of disc golf right next door to the bike playground.

White Center Bike Playground
Dick Thurnau Memorial Park (formerly Lakewood Park)
11050 10th Ave. S.W.
Seattle Wa 98146
Online: kingcountyparks.org/2016/10/03/bike-playground-dick-thurnau-memorial-park or map it

Into the Woods

Slides and Ladders and Ropes. Oh My!
Like any good hideaway in the woods, Lincoln Park’s brand new north play area is full of exciting things for your crew to explore. Which route will you take down from the tree house? The slide-winder, curvy slide, ladder or ropes? Kids of all ages will love traversing between the three awesome play structures linked together by rope bridges. And little ones will especially love the pint-sized Lincoln Park Club House!

photo: Kristina Moy

Other fun activities include a group saucer swing (jump in with buddies), big and little kid swings, a sand pit and a super-fun, speedy zip line!

photo: Kristina Moy

Designed for All Abilities 
Explorer West Middle School students helped the designers make sure the playground was accessible for all kids. Some of the design elements include a raised platform on the zip line so tykes of all sizes can easily hop on, as well as an all-access sand table and a small alcove for sensory sensitive kids.

photo: Richard Green

Extra Perks 
To make this playground even more appealing to all ages, the park designers included interactive information on all the birds you can spot in Lincoln Park, with photos by West Seattle photographers Trileigh Tucker and Mark Ahlness. Psst… be on the lookout for fun character artwork hidden in the play area as well. Can you spot a friendly raccoon and an owl?

Lincoln Park North Play Area (next to the wading pool)
8011 Fauntleroy Way S.W.
Seattle, Wa 98136
Online: seattle.gov/parks/find/parks/lincoln-park or map it

Have you visited these two new West Seattle playgrounds? Tell us about your adventures in the Comments below!

— Helen Walker Green

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