12 minute read
LOCAL EVENTS
BY CHRISTIA WOODFORD — PUBLISHING ASSISTANT AND LOCAL EVENTS
Visit a Museum through Museums for All
Due to COVID-19, many museums participating in Museums for All have adjusted their hours and ticket purchasing policies. Before visiting a museum, please call or check their website to see if they are open or require advance registrations. Many museums are offering virtual resources—check your local museum’s website for more information.
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/
Is there a local event for the special needs community you would like us to promote in an upcoming issue? Email us at SpecialNeedsIndy@n2pub.com
Museums
Abrams Planetarium
Sensory Friendly Shows
The Sun Our Living Star
May 19,11:30 a.m.
755 Science Road, East Lansing, MI, United States
The Sun has shone on our world for four and a half billion years. The light that warms our skin today has been felt by every person who has ever lived. It is our nearest star and our planet's powerhouse, the source of the energy that drives our winds, our weather and all life. The passage of the Sun's fiery disc across the sky - day by day, month by month - was the only way to keep track of time for countless past civilizations. Discover the secrets of our star in this planetarium show and experience never-before-seen images of the Sun's violent surface in immersive full dome format.
Zula Patrol Under the Weather
May 19, 1:00 pm
The stalwart heroes of The Zula Patrol are on an expedition collecting samples of weather for scientist Multo's research. When the Zula gang inadvertently hurts their loyal pet Gorga's feelings, he decides to leave Zula and find another planet to live on. Villain Dark Truder then tricks Gorga into helping with his latest nefarious scheme to rule the universe. The Zula Patrollers find out and go after him-in the process learning all about weather, both terrestrial and interplanetary. Based on the hit TV series.
These shows will run with the lights up, the sound down, and the theater doors open so people can move about as needed. We also provide a place to “chill out” in our lobby. All shows include a live star talk about what is up in the sky that night. We will include a short break between the main show and the star talk. Information about what to expect during the show will be provided when you purchase tickets.
Cost: Adults, $5.50, Students and senior citizens, $5.00, Children (age 12 and under), $4.50Friends of Abrams Planetarium Members, FreeFree with Museums For All (with valid EBT, Medicaid, or WIC card and photo ID)
https://www.abramsplanetarium.org/Programs/Sensory.html
Impression 5
May 15, 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Impression 5 Science Center, 200 Museum Dr., Lansing, MI 48933
Explore your Science Center with select exhibits altered to reduce sounds, scents, and lighting stimuli. Guests can expect a limited building capacity, pop-up activity, and map designating the sensory experiences in each exhibit. Thank you to MiABLE for supporting Sensory Friendly.
Admission: Regular admission prices apply. Free for members.
https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/event/sensory-friendly-hours/2024-03-20/
Ella Sharp Museum
Sensory Time
Every Saturday at 9:00 am
3225 4th Street, Jackson, Michigan 49203
During Sensory Friendly Hours, the Ella Sharp Museum will open its galleries at 9 a.m., an 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 the museum for a quieter experience in a more controlled environment. Designated quiet zones will allow visitors to decompress and experience the museum at their own pace.
Before each program, families are invited to browse our “pre-visit” materials to help them prepare for their visit including social narratives and maps of our facility. These pre-visit materials are also available to help families plan for visits that take place outside of program hours and a sensory backpack is available at the front desk for use.
To provide the most sensory-friendly environment possible, we will limit the capacity for these special times to 50 people. https://ellasharpmuseum.org/classes-and-events/sensory-time/
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
Various Events Scheduled
May.1- May. 31
Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, 11 Sheldon Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Check calendar for Sensory Friendly evenings https://www.grpm.org/visit/
https://www.autismsupportofkentcounty.org/new-products/p/2024-night-at-the-gr-childrens-museum
Sports
Buddy Soccer League
Tuesdays April 16, 2024 through May 21 from 5:30p-6:30p
Sashabaw Plains Park, 5620 Maybee Rd, Clarkston, MI 48348
6 week soccer league for boys and girls ages 7-14 with cognitive disabilities with or without physical impairments. Each player will be paired with a buddy, ages 10-17, to assist as needed. Minimum of 10 players/buddies. Hosted by www.itpr.org
TheraplayYoga: Therapeutic Playful Yoga for Diverse Abilities
Adaptive Yoga Studio, 2015 E. Michigan Ave. Lansing, MI 48912
Inclusive & Accessible Yoga for Diverse Bodies, Brains, and Abilities. Check website for schedule. Gloria@TheraPLAYoga.com https://theraplayoga.com/
Detroit City FC
May 4, 29
Keyworth Stadium, 3201 Roosevelt St, Hamtramck, MI 48212
Detroit Tigers
May 1, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 23, 24, 25, 26, 28, 29, 30
Comerica Park, 2100 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Family Fun
Detroit Zoo
Sensory Friendly EveningsCheck the website for the day!
As part of our work to create accessible and welcoming spaces for all, the Detroit Zoo will turn down the music and adjust the lights during special evenings this summer.
Starting in June, the Detroit Zoo is hosting three Sensory Friendly Evenings for guests with different sensory needs. Sensory Friendly Evenings will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. on Aug. 30. During these times, the Zoo and its attractions will be open to all visitors, but special accommodations will be in place to ensure the Zoo can be enjoyed by families and individuals of all abilities. Sensory bags and a dedicated sensory room is available for those who may need a quieter and more secure space.
Included with Zoo admission | Free for members | No event registration required
https://detroitzoo.org/events/zoo-events/sensory-friendly-evenings/
Legoland Discovery Center Michigan
Sensory Friendly Mornings Check the website for upcoming Mornings
4240 Baldwin Rd, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
During Sensory Friendly Mornings, we’ll reduce the lighting, turn off music & disable distracting stimuli for an hour before we open to the general public. This event is perfect for our friends on the autism spectrum.
Sensory-sensitive adults are welcome to visit during Sensory Friendly Mornings without a child (age 16 or under) in the party until the attraction opens to the general public at 10 am. Adults who are not accompanied by a child must exit the attraction upon opening. Groups that are accompanied by a child are welcome to stay past 10 am.
Tickets are limited and must be purchased online in advance for this special event.
https://www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/michigan/tickets-passes/
Sealife Michigan
Sensory Friendly Mornings Check the website for upcoming mornings
4316 Baldwin Road, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
During Sensory Friendly Mornings, we’ll reduce the lighting, turn off music & disable distracting stimuli for an hour before we open to the general public. This event is perfect for our friends on the autism spectrum.
The aquarium will open to the general public with normal lighting, sound, etc. at 10 am, but you're welcome to stay as long as you like and do not have to leave when the event ends at 10 am.
Tickets are limited and must be purchased online in advance for this special event. Please check https://www.visitsealife.com/michigan/what-s-inside/events/sensory-friendly-mornings/
Together Let’s Sing, Dance and Jam!!
May 1, 6:30 pm- 7:30 pm 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
Spring Dance Party
May 2, 6:00 pm- 8:30 pm
Roll Arena 2909 Bay City Road, Midland, MI
A community event for all 18 and older! There will be music, dancing, and cookies and drinks are included. Games will also be available to play. Admission is $7 per person
https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/event/spring-dance-party/
Swift-TeaMay 4, 11:30 am- 2:30 pm
Troy Community Center, 3179 Livernois Rd, Troy, MI 48083
Calling all Taylor Swift Lovers: No need to stay out ‘til Midnight to enjoy this Fearless Swiftie Event! Dress up in “Style” in your favorite Taylor era. Our DJ will supply music from all ten albums, so come ready to dance and sing along. You’ll have the chance to visit our friendship bracelet making stations, but feel free to wear your own to trade too. Brunch menu including scrambled eggs, hash browns, bagels, coffee and tea, and dessert of Red Velvet cupcakes provided. We have just one question, are you “…Ready For It?” Register by 5/1. Only one person needs to register, then you will be prompted to list the additional person(s) in your party. Ages 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult age 18+ FEE: $25 per pair, $10 per additional person https://rec.troymi.gov/programs___events/recevents.php
Fascination Factory
May 7, 2:30 pm- 5:30 pm
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 Oral chews offered at check-in Calming corner tent Minimized Capacity Families $30.00 https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/event/sensory-sensitive/2024-05-07/
REC-IT Class: Inclusive Art
May 9 and 23, 1:00 pm-2:00 pm
Disability Network Eastern Michigan - Troy 1709 John R Road, Troy, MI
Join us for in-person art classes. Participants will learn new artistic skills using a variety of mediums, such as: acrylic painting, oil pastels, watercolor, and mixed media. Class includes group and individual instruction and meets on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month. In order to promote inclusion for all, we request a maximum of 4 individuals from any one agency. All levels of experience and ability are welcome. https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/event/rec-it-class-inclusive-art-2/2024-04-11/
iCanBike Bike Camp
May 13, 8:00 am - May 17, 5:00 pm
Roll Arena 2909 Bay City Road, Midland, MI, 48642
The Arc of Midland is so excited to announce another year of iCanBike Bike Camp!
Our most anticipated camp of the year! iCanBike Bike Camp is designed to teach people with disabilities how to ride a bike where traditional training wheels have failed. Riders will be encouraged every step of the way by supportive staff! iCanBike – Midland lasts for 5 days with sessions lasting for 1 hour and 15 minutes each day. You can choose which session time works best for you / your child! More information can be found in the flyers attached below, along with a video walkthrough of what a day at camp looks like.
Register soon, as space is limited! We need both riders and volunteers!
Rider Online Registration Form: https://forms.gle/dBUx8NqUCtTYoq2h8
Volunteer Online Registration Form: https://forms.gle/4cGYT8yrux2BugaW9
Call The Arc of Midland at (989) 631-4439 with any additional questions.
ARC Livingston Dance 2024
May 18, 6:00 pm- 8:00 pm
Howell Elks Lodge 2830 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI
The Arc Livingston Dances Schedule for 2024 is Here!! Mark your Calendars!! Arc Dances are held monthly at different locations throughout the community. There is a charge of $3
https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/event/arc-livingston-dance-2024/2024-04-27/
Inclusive Game Night
May 31, 6:00 pm to 7:30pm
Therapeutic Concepts, LLC 38257 Mound Road, Building D, Sterling Heights, MI
For the whole family focusing on inclusion, safety, and enjoyment! $10 per family, register online https://therapeuticconceptsllc.com
MJR Digital Cinema Sensory-Friendly Film
Check the website for movie times
100 East Maple Road, Troy, MI, 48083, United States
Events
Come Join Girl Scout Troop 1197! First All Inclusive Troop!
4920 Groveland Rd, Ortonville, MI 48462
The ONLY troop of its kind in MI, troop 1197 is being formed right now at O.A.T.S. (Offering Alternative Therapy with Smiles) in Ortonville for those with special needs ages 11 and up. The troop, designed with experienced scout leaders, will include typical scouting activities including camping and outdoor skills. For more information, email walkonoats@gmail.com
7th Annual Hats and Horses Hosted by Pioneer Resources
May 6, 5:00 pm- 9:00 pm
Bella Maria’s Event Center ,513 W Pontaluna Rd, Norton Shores, MI 49444
Hats and Horses is our most anticipated fundraising event. Themed around the Kentucky Derby, this “party with a purpose” raises funds for our agency or sometimes, a specific area or program. This event takes place every year on the first Saturday in May, Derby day! Dress in your derby best and enjoy a live auction, silent auction, our famous “Wheelbarrow of Booze” raffle, and many other fun derby-themed activities. The race is shown live and the music, food and atmosphere is fantastic. You won’t want to miss it!
For Tickets: https://betterunite.com/pioneerresources-hatsandhorses2024
Walk for Autism
May 19, 9:00 am- 3:00 pm
Autism Support of Kent County160 68th Street Southwest, Grand Rapids, MI, 49548
Check for more information at https://www.autismsupportofkentcounty.org/events/2024/5/19/walk-for-autism
Sibshops 2024
May 20, 6:30 pm- 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
2/42 Community Center, 7526 Grand River Avenue, Brighton, MI 48114
What are Sibshops? Sibshops provide support and guidance to siblings (ages 8-12) of children with special medical or developmental needs. Siblings are encouraged to share the challenges and celebrate the joy with brothers and sisters in similar situations. Each session will meet in person for roughly two hours. We will play games, talk about life with a sibling with disabilities, and play a few more games! A light dinner is provided.
Fee: $10 per session (covers activity supplies and dinner) Special note: If your child would not be able to attend due to the fee, please contact our office at 517.546.1228 for financial assistance. Register at: https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/event/sibshops-2024/2024-03-18/
Apr. 18th session https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/event/sibshops-washtenaw/2024-04-18/
Prom Night for Autism 24 - The Silent Party
May 31, 7:00 pm- 10:00 pm
100 Lenox St, Detroit, MI 48215
A silent prom where you control the volume! Dinner, décor, sensory activities, and more! Au-Some City 313 is having it's 4th annual free prom night for autism in Detroit! Come out and have a great time! Prom King and Queen will be selected! Who will it be for 2024? Sensory Sounds provided by Win with Windless. For tickets: https://www.ausomecity313.org/event-info/prom-night-for-autism-24-the-silent-party
IEP: A Closer Look
May 31, 9:30 am - 11:30 amRegister at https://autismallianceofmichigan.org/event/iep-a-closer-look-11/2024-04-29/
This free, online workshop takes a closer look at the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process. This workshop will help you:• take a more in depth look at the core areas of the IEP• prioritize your greatest concerns• learn how to address those concerns through the IEP process• improve your ability to have productive conversationsThere will also be time set aside to ask questions.
Who should attend? Families with a child or young adult with an IEP or IFSP.
Questions? info@michiganallianceforfamilies.org
