Fun Autism-Friendly Activities Around Columbus

Hannah Scott:  Columbus Recreation and Parks sponsors a wide variety of programming each year, and their Therapeutic Recreation program provides experiences that are planned with the needs of individuals with disabilities in mind. The city employs a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist who can help make any necessary arrangements or modifications to all other programs as well if you fill out a Columbus Recreation and Parks Department Accommodation Request.

Hannah Scott:  Kids on the autism spectrum or with other sensory sensitivities may benefit from the sensory bags provided by COSI free of charge, as well as the sensory friendly environment map available on its website. If the environment ever becomes overstimulating, families can also enjoy free access to the Calming Room to take a step back and regroup.

Hannah Scott:  In an effort to encourage everyone to engage in the arts,The Columbus Children's Theatre offers 1-2 Sensory Friendly Performances of each of their shows. Light and sound are adapted to avoid sudden changes or extremes, house lights are dimmed rather than turned off, communication cards are provided for those who are nonverbal, and a limited number of tickets are sold to keep the theater from getting too crowded (which can be a problem for those with spatial issues). The staff and volunteers are professionally trained to assist at these performances as well.

Hannah Scott:  RallyCap Sports is a national organization dedicated to providing sports opportunities to everyone, regardless of any special needs. The Columbus chapter is hosted by The Ohio State University. At RallyCap, athletes work 1-on-1 with volunteers to find adaptations that will help them achieve success -- ultimately putting the focus on ability rather than disability!

Hannah Scott:  If your kiddo has autism or a developmental disability, the Sensory Friendly Films at Gateway Film Center were created with your family in mind! The blaring volume of most movie theaters is turned down, the lights are kept up, and nobody expects your child to be still and quiet for the duration of the show. What a relief! Check the website for updated showtimes.

Hannah Scott:  Fishing Has No Boundaries is a national organization that hosts fishing events throughout the year with an emphasis on accessibility for all. Special equipment is provided (pole holders, joy stick or chin operated reels, reel grippers, etc.) and physical adjustments are made for boat access, like the addition of ramps.

Hannah Scott:  Special Olympics is an organization dedicated to empowering people with intellectual disabilities through sports (and inspiring their families and communities in the process). Regional, statewide, national, and even international competition are held in a wide variety of athletic disciplines including: skiing, basketball, bowling, cycling, figure skating, golf, gymnastics, swimming, tennis, and more. Families of the participants are highly encouraged to volunteer at the events!

Hannah Scott:  CCYHA Special Hockey provides individuals with physical and developmental disabilities the chance to play ice hockey with any necessary adaptations for success. The team will also have a chance to meet and play with the Columbus Blue Jackets each season! Beyond teaching hockey, this program encourages dependability, concentration, self-reliance, and confidence.

Hannah Scott:  The Outreach Program for Soccer, or "TOPSoccer," gives athletes with special needs a chance to reap the rewards (physical, mental, and emotional) of being on a soccer team. TOPSoccer relies on the buddy system, pairing each player with a local volunteer who is usually a skilled soccer player. Games are not competitive, and focus instead on the individual successes of each player.

Hannah Scott:  Straub Dance Center offers a 30-minute weekly Adaptive Dance class for children with developmental or physical disabilities. The class is intended to meet each child at their current level of movement, then use dance to increase balance, flexibility, mobility, and confidence -- all within a supportive and fun environment.

Hannah Scott:  Therapeutic riding lessons can be a great way to motivate children with special needs to achieve a variety of goals. Therapy horses are extremely gentle, and instructors are trained and certified to use equine activities and games to achieve goals (like problem-solving, facing fears, completing physical tasks, etc.) Adaptations are made as necessary to empower all students to succeed, regardless of their initial ability level.

Katie G.:  The Bounce Club, an indoor trampoline park, offers special needs classes for kids with developmental disabilities. The class takes place when the gym is closed to the public so children will receive quality jump time on the trampolines. An instructor will be there to interact with the kids and parents and offer assistance if needed. Classes are 45 minutes long.

Hannah Scott:  Large, noisy, and crowded activity centers can be a nightmare for kids with sensory processing issues, which is exactly why Sky Zone reserves one night per month where the environment is adapted for the enjoyment of all. Music is turned down, distractions are removed, and every effort will be made to accommodate any special need.

Hannah Scott:  Integrity Gymnastics gives children with special needs the chance to participate in gymnastics classes thanks to the HUGS program: Hope Unites Gymnastics with Special Athletes. As with traditional gymnastics classes, goals include improving motor skills, flexibility, balance, coordination, and strength. Special Needs Classes include Artistic, Trampoline & Tumbling, and Rhythmic Gymnastics.

Hannah Scott:  Recreation Unlimited is committed to providing sports, recreation, and educational opportunities to people with disabilities and other health concerns. Their weekend respite camps are available on select weekends throughout the year. Typical activities include swimming, fishing, canoeing, climbing, sports, archery, nature exploration, arts and crafts, cooking, theater, and a campfire.