For children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, sensory processing differences, developmental disabilities or other support needs, an ordinary outing can quickly become overwhelming. Bright lights, loud music, crowded rooms, unfamiliar smells, long waits and unexpected changes can turn a fun afternoon into sensory soup.
Other children actively seek movement, pressure, sound or tactile experiences. Some children move between both sensory-seeking and sensory-avoiding needs depending on the day, the environment, their sleep, their hunger and whether a sock seam has launched a tiny rebellion.
This guide brings together sensory-friendly events, welcoming businesses, adaptive recreation, parent support, disability advocacy, therapy resources, inclusive camps, calmer outings and simple activities families can enjoy at home.
The permanent resources can remain in the guide year-round. Each month, only the featured events, seasonal programs, field trips and recommended outings need to be updated. 🐝💛
This section should appear first in the guide and be replaced each month with current events.
🎮 Sensory Sensitive Sunday at Chuck E. Cheese
Date: Sunday, August 2, 2026
Location: Chuck E. Cheese, 2925 Geyser Drive, Colorado Springs
Cost: No separate event admission; food and game play are purchased individually
Registration: Generally not required, but families should call ahead
Sensory Sensitive Sundays are designed to offer a calmer arcade experience with reduced music, lower sound, dimmed lighting and fewer flashing effects.
Before you go: Confirm the participating location and exact sensory-session hours before leaving home.
August dates: Saturday, August 8 and Saturday, August 22, 2026
Locations to check: AMC Chapel Hills 13 in Colorado Springs and AMC Highlands Ranch 24 near Douglas County
Cost: Regular movie-ticket pricing
Movie and showtime: Announced closer to each screening date
AMC’s sensory-friendly screenings typically keep the auditorium lights slightly brighter and lower the sound. Guests are welcome to move, speak, stand or take breaks during the movie.
Date: Saturday, August 22, 2026
Time: 10:30 to 11:00 a.m.
Location: Library 21c, 1175 Chapel Hills Drive, Colorado Springs
Cost: Free
Recommended ages: Approximately ages 3 through 12 with a parent or caregiver
Registration: Required
This interactive storytime is created to welcome children with learning and sensory differences. Participation is flexible, and families may ask the library about available sensory supports such as fidgets or noise-reducing headphones.
A few more I found:
Aug. 2
Sensory Sensitive Sunday at Chuck E. Cheese
Monthly reduced-sensory arcade session.
Aug. 5
Play Street Museum Sensory Play (Wed.)
Limited-capacity sensory play session (recurs weekly).
Aug. 8
AMC Sensory Friendly Film
Lower sound, lights partially on, movement welcomed.
Aug. 12
Play Street Museum Sensory Play
Weekly session.
Aug. 19
Play Street Museum Sensory Play
Weekly session.
Aug. 22
Library 21c Sensory Storytime
One of the region's best sensory-specific children's programs.
Aug. 22
AMC Sensory Friendly Film
Monthly family screening.
Aug. 22
Bear Creek Nature Center "Bear-thday Party"
Not officially sensory-friendly, but a nature-based event that many families enjoy because it allows flexible pacing.
Aug. 26
Play Street Museum Sensory Play
Weekly session.
Aug. 28 to Sept. 7
Colorado State Fair
Includes a dedicated Sensory Day on Sept. 7, but August visitors can also take advantage of quieter morning hours and accessibility resources.
These aren't tied to one date, but they're absolutely worth listing.
We Rock The Spectrum - Colorado Springs: Open play, camps, themed events, inclusive indoor sensory gym.
Pikes Peak Library District - Library 21c: Makerspaces, children's programming, sensory accommodations.
Pikes Peak Library District - East Library: Storytimes and sensory accommodations.
Pikes Peak Library District - Old Colorado City Library: Cozy children's storytimes.
Pikes Peak Library District - Manitou Springs Library: Family storytimes and children's activities.
Colorado Springs Parks & Recreation: Adaptive and therapeutic recreation programming.
Colorado Lion's Camp: Adaptive camp sessions and respite opportunities.
This is hosted by the Colorado Neurodiversity Chamber of Commerce and is designed as an inclusive networking event for neurodivergent adults, entrepreneurs, employers, creatives, and allies.
📅 August 13, 2026
🕠 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM
📍 Cultural Office of the Pikes Peak Region
287 E. Fountain Blvd., Unit 100, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
While it's geared toward adults, it's an excellent addition to a Neurodivergent Resources section of your guide.
📅 August 11, 2026
🕡 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
📍 2328 E. Platte Ave., Colorado Springs
A recurring social event for autistic adults to connect through board games in a welcoming environment.
📅 August 17, 2026
🕕 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
A casual meet-up for moms of autistic children. The location changes monthly, so families should check the organizer's event page before attending.
These don't always publish monthly calendars far in advance, but they are worth monitoring every month:
Project Ember Counseling
Adult Women's ADHD Group
D&D Therapy Groups
Hiking Therapy
Teen therapy groups
Willows Counseling
Neurodivergent-affirming counseling
Parent support
Child and teen services
Cura Psychology
ADHD evaluations
Autism evaluations
Individual support
ADHD Clinic
ADHD assessments
Counseling
Academic accommodation guidance
NAMI Colorado Springs
Family support groups
Peer support
Educational classes
PEAK helps Colorado families of children and young adults with disabilities understand special education, IEPs, 504 Plans, inclusion, transition planning and disability rights. Parent advisors provide individualized information and support.
Address: 917 East Moreno Avenue, Suite 140, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Phone: 719-531-9400
Toll-free: 800-284-0251
Website: https://www.peakparent.org
Best for: IEP support, school advocacy, parent education, transition planning and family referrals.
The Arc provides free advocacy, education and social opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
Address: 10 North Meade Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO 80909
Phone: 719-471-4800
Website: https://thearcppr.org
Best for: Educational advocacy, disability rights, guardianship information, adult advocacy, family resources and social programs.
This volunteer-led Colorado Springs organization offers free or low-cost family activities, workshops, support groups, community events and resource fairs.
Mailing address: P.O. Box 16143, Colorado Springs, CO 80910
Phone: 719-210-5895
Website: https://www.autismvisionco.org
Best for: Autism family events, parent connection, workshops, social opportunities and local resource fairs.
Note: The organization does not maintain a public walk-in office.
The Autism Society of Colorado provides information, referrals, education, advocacy and community programs for autistic individuals and their families throughout the state.
Mailing address: P.O. Box 848, Broomfield, CO 80038
Phone: 720-214-0794
Website: https://www.autismcolorado.org
Best for: Statewide autism resources, support, education, community events and referrals.
Note: Office visits are by appointment only.
This statewide protection and advocacy organization assists with disability rights concerns, including education, discrimination, access, abuse, neglect and public benefits.
Mailing address: P.O. Box 300309, Denver, CO 80203
Phone: 303-722-0300
Toll-free intake: 800-288-1376
Website: https://disabilitylawco.org
Best for: Disability rights, discrimination, special education concerns and legal information.
Note: The intake line generally accepts messages rather than live calls.
The Resource Exchange, commonly called TRE, is the official Early Intervention provider for El Paso, Park and Teller Counties. It also provides case management and helps families apply for disability-related services and waivers.
Address: 6385 Corporate Drive, Suite 100, Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Main phone: 719-380-1100
Early Intervention phone: 719-577-9190
Toll-free: 877-611-7808
Website: https://www.tre.org
Best for: Early Intervention for children from birth to age three, Medicaid waivers, eligibility, case management, family support and service navigation.
TRE also maintains a Pueblo office for case-management and service-navigation needs.
Address: 201 West 8th Street, Suite 600, Pueblo, CO 81003
Phone: 719-601-9991
Toll-free: 877-423-0323
Website: https://www.tre.org
Best for: Pueblo-area waiver information, case management, eligibility and support navigation.
This office provides a closer contact point for Teller County families.
Address: 509 Scott Avenue, Suite 203, Woodland Park, CO 80866
Phone: 719-380-1100
Website: https://www.tre.org
Best for: Teller County case management, waiver navigation and disability-related support services.
Developmental Pathways is the designated Case Management Agency serving Douglas, Arapahoe and Elbert Counties. It connects eligible individuals and families with long-term services, supports, funding and community resources.
Address: 14280 East Jewell Avenue, Suite A, Aurora, CO 80012
Phone: 303-360-6600
Intake: 303-360-6600, extension 3
Website: https://www.dpcolo.org
Best for: Douglas County case management, Medicaid waivers, long-term services, early childhood resources and family support.
Families anywhere in Colorado may contact the statewide Early Intervention referral system for children from birth through age two who may have a developmental delay or disability.
Phone: 833-733-3734
Phone mnemonic: 833-REFER-EI
Website: https://www.eicolorado.org
Best for: Starting an Early Intervention referral and locating the correct local provider.
Address: Services are coordinated regionally rather than through one family walk-in office.
Colorado Lions Camp provides camps and weekend respite programs for children and adults with disabilities in a mountain setting near Woodland Park.
Address: 28541 State Highway 67 North, Woodland Park, CO 80863
Phone: 719-687-2087
Website: https://www.coloradolionscamp.org
Best for: Inclusive summer camp, weekend respite, recreation, outdoor activities and opportunities for greater independence.
The City of Colorado Springs Therapeutic Recreation Program offers inclusive camps, sports, social activities, outings and recreation for children and adults with disabilities.
Program office: 1620 West Bijou Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
General phone: 719-385-6964
Discovery Camp contact: 719-385-6965
Website: https://coloradosprings.gov/therapeuticrecreation
Best for: Adaptive recreation, camps, community outings, sports, art and social programming.
Special Olympics Colorado provides year-round sports, competitions, fitness programs and social opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. The Southeast Region includes Colorado Springs and Pueblo-area communities.
State office: 3033 South Parker Road, 12th Floor, Aurora, CO 80014
Main phone: 720-359-3100
Southeast regional phone: 720-784-3806
Website: https://specialolympicsco.org/getinvolved/regions/southeast/
Best for: Adaptive sports, competitions, athlete leadership, health programs and volunteer opportunities.
This state department oversees Health First Colorado, Medicaid waivers, Children’s Medicaid Buy-In and many home and community-based support programs.
Main address: 303 East 17th Avenue, Denver, CO 80203
Member Contact Center: 800-221-3943
Website: https://hcpf.colorado.gov
Best for: Medicaid eligibility information, waiver programs, provider information and long-term services.
Families should generally begin with their county’s Case Management Agency, such as TRE or Developmental Pathways, when seeking waiver eligibility or services. Colorado’s official agency directory identifies the correct agency by county.
Some addresses above are mailing or administrative offices, not drop-in family service centers. Families should call before visiting, particularly when requesting advocacy, intake, respite or waiver assistance.
This gives us a strong verified foundation. The next layer should add:
Parent and caregiver support groups
Respite providers
Teen and young-adult social programs
Employment and transition resources
Therapy and diagnostic providers
Inclusive camps
Adaptive horseback riding
Pueblo-specific resources
Douglas County-specific programs
Current community resource fairs
I would also add a small label beside each entry in the finished article:
FREE, MEDICAID, INSURANCE, REGISTRATION REQUIRED, or CALL FIRST.
That tiny detail will save parents approximately twelve acres of frustration. 🐝💛
ok, now can we put this into one amazing "guide" that monthly I will only update the events, fieldtrips or outtings for the apporpriate month
Colorado Springs Therapeutic Recreation offers seasonal programs for children, teens and adults with disabilities.
August offerings may include:
Camps
Swimming
Adaptive sports
Art
Community outings
Social activities
Outdoor recreation
Program office: 1620 West Bijou Street, Colorado Springs
Phone: 719-385-6964
Website: coloradosprings.gov/therapeuticrecreation
Families should contact the program for current openings, participant requirements and fees.
Fair dates: August 28 through September 7, 2026
Location: Colorado State Fairgrounds, 1001 Beulah Avenue, Pueblo
Cost: Admission varies by date and promotion
The Colorado State Fair has offered sensory supports and designated low-sensory programming in partnership with local disability organizations.
Families attending during August should check the current accessibility information for quiet spaces, sensory bags and available accommodations.
This section can also be refreshed each month.
Choose approximately five to ten seasonal outings and include:
Best day and time to visit
Approximate cost
Noise and crowd level
Accessibility
Restroom availability
Shade or indoor break areas
Whether families can leave and return
A direct planning or ticket link
Visit shortly after sunrise or early in the morning for cooler temperatures, lighter traffic and fewer visitors.
Families can choose a short paved route, stop at scenic overlooks or enjoy the visitor center before crowds build.
Best for: Short walks, nature observation and families who need easy access back to the car.
Bring wide paintbrushes and a bucket of water. Children can paint sidewalks, rocks, fences or picnic tables using only water.
Cost: Free
Best time: Weekday mornings
Sensory benefits: Repetitive motion, cool water and low-pressure creativity
Cleanup: Colorado sunshine handles it
Choose a smaller or less-crowded library branch and visit shortly after opening.
Bring headphones, a familiar activity and a visual schedule. Ask the service desk whether sensory tools are available.
Cost: Free
Best for: Short, predictable outings with an easy exit
Try a weekday-morning visit to:
Swing High Playground at Memorial Park
Panorama Park
A neighborhood park during low-traffic hours
Inclusive playgrounds may still become loud or crowded, so timing can matter more than the equipment itself.
A short drive into Teller County can provide cooler temperatures and quieter outdoor options.
Possible stops include:
A gentle nature trail
A picnic area
A quiet library visit
A short scenic drive
Colorado Lions Camp programs when available
Address: 4412 Austin Bluffs Parkway, Colorado Springs, CO 80918
Phone: 719-432-8383
Website: werockthespectrumcoloradosprings.com
We Rock the Spectrum is an inclusive indoor play gym built around movement, sensory exploration and social play.
Equipment may include:
Therapeutic swings
Climbing structures
Crash areas
Fine-motor activities
Imaginative play
Quieter play spaces
The gym welcomes children of varying abilities and may offer open play, camps, parties and social events.
Call first: Open-play hours may change for private events.
Website: ppld.org
Pikes Peak Library District branches can be excellent free or low-cost outings for families needing flexible and relatively predictable environments.
Programs and resources may include:
Sensory Storytime
Paws to Read
Crafts
Makerspaces
Homeschool activities
Children’s play areas
Family movies
Games
Sensory-accommodation kits
Branches serve Colorado Springs, Monument, Palmer Lake, Fountain, Calhan and Ute Pass.
Ask the service desk whether fidgets, headphones or other sensory supports are available.
Location: Lone Tree, Douglas County
Website: lonetreeartscenter.org
Lone Tree Arts Center offers select sensory-inclusive performances.
Possible accommodations may include:
Reduced sound
Adjusted lighting
Flexible audience expectations
Movement permitted
Break spaces
Pre-visit materials
Check the current performance schedule before purchasing tickets.
Website: amctheatres.com/programs/sensory-friendly-films
AMC offers sensory-friendly family screenings on select Saturdays.
Common accommodations include:
Lower sound
Brighter auditorium lighting
Freedom to move
Flexible audience behavior
Breaks permitted
Check AMC Chapel Hills 13 and AMC Highlands Ranch 24 for current screenings.
Address: 715 Prospect Lake Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80910
Features may include:
Accessible play equipment
Adaptive elements
Soft surfaces
Nearby open space
Easy parking access
Buzzy tip: Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and cooler equipment.
Address: 4540 Fenton Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80916
Features include:
Inclusive playground equipment
Splash features
Open lawns
Seating
Multiple play zones
Accessible paths
The park can become very busy. Weekday mornings or cooler days may provide a calmer experience.
Location: Colorado Springs
Website: gardenofgods.com
Families can choose from short paved routes, scenic overlooks and accessible viewing areas.
Peak tourism hours may be highly stimulating. Early mornings generally offer lighter traffic, cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Address: 917 East Moreno Avenue, Suite 140, Colorado Springs, CO 80903
Phone: 719-531-9400
Toll-free: 800-284-0251
Website: peakparent.org
PEAK Parent Center helps families understand:
Individualized Education Programs
504 Plans
Special education rights
School inclusion
Transition planning
Mediation
Family advocacy
This is one of the strongest starting points for parents who feel lost in the school-support maze.
Address: 10 North Meade Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO 80909
Phone: 719-471-4800
Website: thearcppr.org
The Arc supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
Services and resources may include:
Individual advocacy
Educational advocacy
Disability rights information
Guardianship education
Family referrals
Social opportunities
Community programs
Mailing address: P.O. Box 16143, Colorado Springs, CO 80910
Phone: 719-210-5895
Website: autismvisionco.org
Autism Vision of Colorado offers free or low-cost family programs and community connections.
Activities may include:
Parent education
Family gatherings
Teen programs
Holiday events
Resource fairs
Workshops
Autism acceptance events
This organization does not maintain a regular public walk-in office, so families should contact it before visiting.
Phone: 720-214-0794
Website: autismcolorado.org
The Autism Society of Colorado provides statewide:
Information and referrals
Community programs
Autism education
Advocacy
Family support
Sensory-friendly partnerships
Although it serves families statewide, programs may occasionally be offered in Southern Colorado.
Mailing address: P.O. Box 300309, Denver, CO 80203
Phone: 303-722-0300
Toll-free intake: 800-288-1376
Website: disabilitylawco.org
Disability Law Colorado provides legal information and advocacy related to:
Disability discrimination
Education
Accessibility
Public benefits
Abuse or neglect
Disability rights
The organization may not be able to accept every case, but it can help families understand available protections and next steps.
Address: 6385 Corporate Drive, Suite 100, Colorado Springs, CO 80919
Main phone: 719-380-1100
Early Intervention: 719-577-9190
Toll-free: 877-611-7808
Website: tre.org
The Resource Exchange, often called TRE, helps families access:
Early Intervention
Medicaid waivers
Case management
Eligibility assessments
Family support
Long-term services
Disability resources
TRE serves El Paso, Teller and surrounding eligible counties.
Address: 509 Scott Avenue, Suite 203, Woodland Park, CO 80866
Phone: 719-380-1100
Website: tre.org
This location provides a closer point of contact for Teller County families needing case management or waiver information.
Address: 201 West 8th Street, Suite 600, Pueblo, CO 81003
Phone: 719-601-9991
Toll-free: 877-423-0323
Website: tre.org
Families should contact the Pueblo office to confirm current service areas and available programs.
Address: 14280 East Jewell Avenue, Suite A, Aurora, CO 80012
Phone: 303-360-6600
Intake: 303-360-6600, extension 3
Website: dpcolo.org
Developmental Pathways serves Douglas County and neighboring eligible communities.
Support may include:
Case management
Medicaid waiver navigation
Long-term services
Early childhood resources
Family support
Community referrals
Families in Castle Rock, Larkspur and Douglas County can contact Developmental Pathways to determine eligibility and begin the intake process.
Phone: 833-733-3734
Website: eicolorado.org
Early Intervention Colorado connects families of children from birth through age two with local developmental services.
Services may include:
Developmental evaluations
Occupational therapy
Speech therapy
Physical therapy
Family coaching
Service coordination
Families do not need to wait for a formal diagnosis to request an evaluation.
Families seeking help with school services can begin with:
Phone: 719-531-9400
Website: peakparent.org
Best for:
IEP preparation
504 Plan information
Special education rights
Transition planning
Parent training
Phone: 719-471-4800
Website: thearcppr.org
Best for:
Educational advocacy
Family support
Disability-rights guidance
Community referrals
Phone: 800-288-1376
Website: disabilitylawco.org
Best for:
Serious disability-rights concerns
Discrimination
Access issues
Special education disputes
Legal information
Parent support may be available through:
Autism Vision of Colorado
PEAK Parent Center
The Arc Pikes Peak Region
The Resource Exchange
Developmental Pathways
Autism Society of Colorado
Local therapy providers
Community resource fairs
Military-family programs
School district special-education departments
Support groups may be organized around:
Newly diagnosed children
Autism
ADHD
IEP support
Caregiver stress
Grandparents
Teen transition
Adult services
Sibling support
Because meeting schedules can change, families should contact the organization directly before attending.
Respite provides temporary caregiving support so parents and caregivers can rest, attend appointments, spend time with other children or simply breathe without managing seventeen things at once.
Possible respite pathways include:
Medicaid waiver services
Family Support Services Program funding
Developmental Pathways
The Resource Exchange
Colorado Lions Camp
Approved respite agencies
Community or faith-based respite programs
Private caregivers
Seasonal respite events
Families should ask:
Is funding available?
Is Medicaid accepted?
Are background checks required?
Can the provider support medication or personal-care needs?
Is respite offered in the home or at a program location?
Is there a waitlist?
Can siblings attend?
Address: 28541 State Highway 67 North, Woodland Park, CO 80863
Phone: 719-687-2087
Website: coloradolionscamp.org
Colorado Lions Camp provides outdoor recreation and camp experiences for children and adults with disabilities.
Programs may include:
Summer camp
Weekend programs
Outdoor activities
Social connection
Independent-living experiences
Respite opportunities
Families should ask about staffing, medical support, dietary accommodations, communication needs and personal-care assistance.
Address: 1620 West Bijou Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80904
Phone: 719-385-6964
Website: coloradosprings.gov/therapeuticrecreation
Possible offerings include:
Discovery Camp
Adaptive sports
Swimming
Art
Community outings
Outdoor activities
Teen and adult programs
Social groups
Registration, fees and participant requirements vary by program.
State office: 3033 South Parker Road, 12th Floor, Aurora, CO 80014
Main phone: 720-359-3100
Southeast regional phone: 720-784-3806
Website: specialolympicsco.org/getinvolved/regions/southeast
Special Olympics Colorado offers year-round sports and fitness opportunities for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.
Programs may include:
Basketball
Bowling
Swimming
Track and field
Softball
Bocce
Soccer
Athlete leadership
Health programs
The Southeast Region serves Colorado Springs, Pueblo and surrounding communities.
Service area: Pueblo and Southern Colorado
Autism Mana provides exercise and recreational opportunities for neurodivergent children.
Programs may include:
Fitness
Movement
Recreation
Social connection
Confidence-building activities
Families should verify current program dates, enrollment requirements and contact information before attending.
Adaptive riding programs may offer:
Therapeutic riding
Horsemanship
Ground-based activities
Balance and coordination work
Confidence-building
Social connection
Because local stable programs can change, this category should be reviewed monthly or seasonally before specific providers are added.
The transition from school-based services into adulthood can feel like stepping off a paved road into fog. These organizations can help families begin planning earlier.
Support may include:
Transition planning
Postsecondary education
Independent living
Employment goals
Student participation in the IEP process
Website: dvr.colorado.gov
Colorado’s Division of Vocational Rehabilitation helps eligible individuals with disabilities prepare for, obtain and maintain employment.
Services may include:
Career exploration
Job training
Job coaching
Workplace accommodations
Education support
Employment planning
Families should locate the office serving their county.
Both organizations may assist eligible young adults with:
Case management
Waiver services
Community participation
Employment resources
Independent-living support
Day programs
Transportation resources
These organizations may offer:
Teen events
Social activities
Dances
Game nights
Community outings
Family programs
Adult advocacy
Check current calendars for age requirements and registration.
Address: 303 East 17th Avenue, Denver, CO 80203
Member Contact Center: 800-221-3943
Website: hcpf.colorado.gov
This department oversees Health First Colorado and many disability-related programs.
Families may ask about:
Health First Colorado
Children’s Medicaid Buy-In
Home and Community-Based Services waivers
Family Support Services Program
Respite funding
Long-term services
Adaptive equipment
Medicaid transportation
This program may allow children with qualifying disabilities to receive Medicaid coverage when family income would otherwise be too high.
Often called the CES Waiver, this program serves qualifying children with intensive support needs.
Often called FSSP, this program may provide funding for disability-related family needs.
These programs help eligible individuals receive services in their homes and communities rather than institutions.
SSI may provide monthly financial assistance for qualifying individuals with disabilities.
Eligibility can be complicated. Families should begin with their local Case Management Agency rather than attempting to decode the entire system alone at midnight with twelve browser tabs glowing like a tiny bureaucratic constellation.
This section should clearly explain that inclusion in the guide is informational and is not a medical endorsement.
Families may seek:
Occupational therapy
Speech therapy
Physical therapy
Feeding therapy
Applied Behavior Analysis
Mental-health services
Developmental evaluations
Autism assessments
Parent coaching
Social-skills groups
When contacting a provider, ask:
Do you accept our insurance?
Do you accept Health First Colorado?
Is there a waitlist?
Are services clinic-based, home-based or school-based?
Are parents included in treatment planning?
Do you offer feeding support?
Do you collaborate with schools?
What ages do you serve?
Do you provide diagnostic assessments?
Do you offer evening or weekend appointments?
Specific therapy providers should be reviewed regularly because locations, staffing, insurance participation and waitlists change.
Address: 7868 North Academy Boulevard, Colorado Springs, CO 80920
Phone: 719-593-7112
This locally owned store carries educational toys, games, classroom supplies and learning materials.
Families may find:
Fidgets
Fine-motor tools
Visual timers
Tactile toys
Social-emotional resources
Homeschool supplies
Sorting activities
Games
Classroom supports
Call ahead when looking for a specific item.
Noise-reducing headphones
Sunglasses
Brimmed hats
Weighted lap pads
Compression clothing
Soft blankets
Visual timers
Sensory bottles
Chew-safe jewelry
Resistance bands
Therapy balls
Scooter boards
Indoor tunnels
Crash pads
Body socks
Weighted stuffed animals
Mini trampolines with support bars
Therapy putty
Kinetic sand
Pop tubes
Lacing cards
Sorting trays
Textured balls
Reusable stickers
Sensory bins
Choose tools according to the individual child. The word “sensory” on a package does not guarantee that every nervous system will give it a standing ovation.
These activities are simple, adaptable and inexpensive. Families can repeat favorites throughout the year.
Freeze small washable toys in a container of water. Provide warm water, spoons and droppers.
Use large paintbrushes and water to paint sidewalks, fences or patios.
Move water between two bowls using sponges.
Freeze colored water and let children combine the cubes in clear cups.
Provide toy cars, soapy water, brushes and towels.
Use cups, funnels and containers in a shallow bin.
Wet and freeze clean washcloths for a cool tactile activity.
Combine water, clear glue, glitter and sequins in a sealed bottle.
Create a cozy retreat with pillows, blankets and soft lighting.
Hide familiar items in a dim room and search with a flashlight.
Take turns making slow movements for another person to copy.
Place a stuffed animal on the child’s stomach and watch it rise and fall.
Play instrumental music and draw lines or shapes that match the sound.
Blow bubbles and watch quietly until they pop.
Fill a laundry basket with towels and push it across the floor.
Try bear walks, crab walks, frog jumps and elephant steps.
Arrange couch cushions in a safe supervised area.
Place both hands on a wall and push firmly for ten seconds.
Carry books, cans or water bottles from one room to another.
Create paths to follow, hop over or crawl around.
Use a balloon for slower, softer movement.
Add colored rice, scoops and small containers to a bin.
Roll, press, cut and decorate pretend baked goods.
Find something smooth, rough, soft, bumpy, cool and flexible.
Combine washable paint with bubble solution and blow bubbles onto paper with adult supervision.
Crumple and shape aluminum foil into animals or abstract designs.
Use reusable stickers to create a scene without glue.
Combine fabric, craft foam, ribbon and paper.
Listen for a bird, vehicle, wind, footsteps, water and an insect.
Let the child choose which items help and which items should leave.
Repeat the activity that felt best.
Repetition creates familiarity, confidence and regulation. It is not a creativity shortage.
Food can be intensely sensory. Texture, smell, temperature, color and presentation may all matter.
Simple options include:
Cheese, crackers and fruit served separately
Smoothies
Frozen yogurt bark
Apple slices with toppings on the side
Toast cut into familiar shapes
Deconstructed sandwiches
Plain pasta with sauce served separately
Snack trays
Banana sushi
Dry cereal sorting cups
Mini pancakes with dipping choices
Children should not be forced to eat unfamiliar foods.
Food exposure may begin with:
Allowing the food on the table
Keeping it on a separate plate
Touching it with a utensil
Smelling it
Licking it
Taking a tiny taste
Families concerned about choking, swallowing, severe restriction, weight loss or nutrition should contact an appropriate medical or feeding professional.
Keep a small bag ready with items your child regularly uses.
Possible items include:
Headphones
Sunglasses
Hat
Fidget
Chew-safe item
Familiar snack
Water bottle
Comfort object
Hand wipes
Change of clothes
Visual schedule
Communication card
Small timer
Portable charger
Emergency contact information
There is no need to carry every possible tool. Pack what actually helps your family rather than preparing for a three-week trek across an enchanted mountain range.
First: Shoes on
Then: Music in the car
Get dressed
Drive
Enter the building
Complete the activity
Take a break
Go home
I need a break.
This is too loud. I need my headphones.
We can take a break, go to the car or go home. You are not trapped.
Knowing there is an exit can make entering a new environment feel much safer.
Before attending a new event or visiting an unfamiliar place:
Look at photos of the location together.
Explain the outing in a few simple steps.
Check parking and entrances.
Ask about the quietest time to visit.
Locate restrooms and exits.
Bring familiar regulation tools.
Avoid scheduling several demanding activities on the same day.
Agree on a signal for “I need a break.”
Keep the first visit short.
Leave while things are still going well when possible.
A successful outing might last two hours, twenty minutes or long enough to walk inside and decide that today is not the day.
It still counts.
Sensory-friendly does not mean silent, perfectly controlled or identical for every child.
One child may find swinging calming while another finds it frightening. One child may seek music and movement while another needs dim lighting and quiet. Needs can change from day to day depending on sleep, illness, hunger, stress, growth and the general weather system of being human.
The goal is not to make children tolerate every environment without reacting. The goal is to help families find places where they are welcomed, understand which accommodations are available and build experiences around safety, dignity and connection.
A meaningful family memory does not have to involve an enormous adventure. It might be a sensory storytime, a short playground visit, an afternoon rescuing toys from ice or a blanket nest in the living room.
Here is to quieter choices, stronger support systems, fewer apologies and more opportunities for every family to find its own kind of fun. 🐝🌈💗
