For individuals with sensory sensitivities, loud sounds and crowded environments can be overwhelming. However, many family-friendly venues in the Des Moines area have recognized this issue and have taken steps to offer inclusive events and accommodations to welcome all families to enjoy their amenities.
For additional inclusive attractions and activities, check out our list of Inclusive & Accessible Playgrounds for Des Moines Kids and Sensory-Friendly and Inclusive Events & Activities for Kids with Special Needs in Des Moines. And, if you’re thinking about sending your kids off to camp this summer, check out Summer Camp 2023: Special Needs Summer Camps for Des Moines Kids article.
Here are just a few sensory-friendly and inclusionary events and activities happening this spring in Des Moines:
Des Moines Performing Arts – Sensory Friendly Show
The “Ugly Duckling” performance scheduled for 2:00 pm on April 1, 2023, at the Temple Theater is designed as a sensory-friendly show. The performance is specifically intended for individuals on the autism spectrum, those with other sensory sensitivities, and their families. The show promises to provide all the joy of a typical theater setting while incorporating several adjustments to help attendees feel more comfortable. These accommodations will include modifications to light and sound, a variety of seating options, an environment that encourages movement and breaks as necessary, ASL interpretation, and a welcoming, inclusive staff from the moment guests arrive. While the show is tailored to individuals requiring these accommodations, families who do not require them are also welcome to attend.
Get Air – Special Time Just For You
Get Air in Urbandale provides a dedicated time for jumpers with special needs on the first Saturday of every month from 8:00 to 10:00 am. During this time, the music is played at a lower volume, and the atmosphere is quieter, which can be beneficial for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Additionally, one parent or guardian can support jumpers on the trampoline for free. Siblings of jumpers are also welcome to jump for the same admission price, but it is recommended that they exercise extra caution during this time.
Local Public Libraries – Sensory Spaces
Metro area libraries offer Sensory Spaces, providing special hours for members of the public who appreciate a sensory-friendly environment. While individuals and families with special needs are welcome during regular hours, these designated times offer quiet browsing, special programming, and other adaptive services that vary by location. This month, the Johnston Public Library will host on April 2, 2023, from 12:00 to 1:00 pm, and the Grimes Public Library will host on April 29, 2023, from 9:00 to 10:00 am. Please contact each location to find out what will be offered during their designated sensory-friendly hours.
AMC – Sensory Friendly Films
Experience the magic of movies in a quieter and brighter environment at AMC’s Sensory Friendly Film, held twice a month on the second and fourth Saturday, as well as the second and fourth Wednesday. At these screenings, getting up to dance, walk, shout, and sing is encouraged, as it’s all part of the experience. The event is designed to be inclusive of individuals with sensory sensitivities, creating a welcoming atmosphere for all. See “Super Mario Brothers” on April 8 and 22, 2023.
B & B Ankeny 12 & B-Roll Bowling – Sensory Friendly Film
B & B Ankeny 12 hosts Sensory Friendly Film viewings associated with specific films to better accommodate guests with varying levels of physical or mental challenges. During these showtimes, the auditorium lighting is brighter, and the audio levels are lower, creating an open and accessible cinema experience for individuals who may have trouble in conventional cinema settings. On April 8, 2023, at 12:00 pm, they will be showing “Super Mario Brothers” as their next sensory-friendly film. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this family-friendly film in a comfortable and accommodating setting.
Science Center of Iowa – Sensory Friendly Hours
Although the Science Center of Iowa is an exciting and bustling place, they understand that some families may prefer a quieter, less crowded experience. Families with children on the autism spectrum or children with sensory processing disorders can enjoy exploring the Science Center with the help of Sensory Guide signage, which indicates audio, visual, and activity stimuli. To accommodate such families, they offer Sensory-Friendly Hours on the second Tuesday of each month from 4-7 p.m. During these hours, the atmosphere is quieter and less overwhelming, providing a more comfortable experience. Admission is free, but advanced ticket registration is required to ensure availability.
Chuck E. Cheese – Sensory Sensitive Sundays
To mark World Autism Month, Chuck E. Cheese is hosting a Sensory Sensitive Sundays event at fun centers across the country. On April 30th, Chuck E. Cheese will open two hours early to provide a sensory-friendly dining and arcade experience that caters specifically to children with autism and other special needs. This event aims to create a safe and welcoming environment for all children and their families to enjoy Chuck E. Cheese’s fun activities.
