For some children, particularly those with autism or sensory processing disorders, a visit to a space like Recess can be difficult or overstimulating. Kids melt down. Music, bright lights, and a lot of action are just too much to take in all at one time.
This summer, we are thrilled to be launching a program that's been in the works for years, Recess for All.
Since we opened nearly 10 years ago, Recess' playspace, has been inclusive. We welcome children of all abilities, from all walks of life. We have welcomed ABA therapists with special professional memberships who meet their clients at Recess. We've had children on the Autism spectrum come for open play and join our Precess program. Kiddos with a variety of other developmental delays, sensory processing disorders and physical disabilities have been able to thrive at Recess.
But we've always known we could do more to meet the needs of all children. So last fall, we brought together a team of professionals (a Special Ed PhD, Occupational Therapists, Speech Pathologists, Pediatric PTs, parents, advocates, an infant mental health specialist & a recreational therapist) and launched our Recess For All initiative. Through this incredible brainstorm, were able to pull together expertise from a variety of disciplines and identify ways to make Recess more inclusive during open hours, and more useful for children with disabilities during times Recess is closed to the general public.
Our first sensory friendly playtime is July 26.
With this new offering, our goal is to support families of children with autism or sensory processing disorders by providing these Sensory Friendly Playtimes events every month. Our first one will be July 26, 2017.
We'll be limiting the number of families who can attend at any given time, turning down the lights and sounds, providing adaptive equipment for those who would like it and, if available, bringing in volunteer therapists to create a welcoming environment for families who wouldn’t be able to visit during regular hours.
During these play times, we'd love your feedback. Whether you are a parent or a professional, we want to know how we can create the most optimal environment for your child to play.
Other goals under Recess for All:
- Increase Recess' library of resources for parents who are curious about their child's development, those who are just starting down the path of diagnosis and the families who are looking to connect with others in the same boat. If you have books or resources to donate, please get in touch. If you are in need of resources, let us know!
- Build a lending library of various tools to be available for kids who need them.
- Starting in the fall, host support groups for parents.
- Starting in the fall, provide childcare for children during designated times, while parents can take a break, work in the Workspace, or use the community room to chat with others, read a book, meditate.
What else would you like to see? How else can we support YOUR family? Please let us know.
Is your child a candidate for Sensory Friendly Playtime?
Tell us more as we organize sign ups:
Visit our Recess For All page for additional information.