Perhaps few groups of children have struggled with inclusion as much as people with sensory issues, and of course, parents who care for them. So many community activities provide an amount of stimulation that people with sensory disorders find overwhelming, uncomfortable, or even painful. The good news is that the Houston Metro Area has begun to provide some sensory-friendly opportunities for community and family fun.

Houston-Area Sensory Friendly Events

If you or a loved one struggles with sensory issues, start marking these sensory-friendly events on your calendar.

The Houston Rodeo Sensory-Friendly Carnival Experience

Few events around Houston get more attention than the annual rodeo. Of course, this event includes plenty of live shows and a large carnival midway. It's hard to imagine a less-sensory friendly event than a typical event of this size. However, Rodeo Houston has announced its first-ever sensory-friendly carnival experience in 2020. On March 5 from 10 AM until 1 PM, certain areas of the midway and The Junction had minimized lights and sounds. Rodeo volunteers also provided extra assistance in these areas.

The Children's Museum

The Houston Children's Museum has a private event planned to help children with sensory issues enjoy a fun and educational experience. They plan to keep the museum uncrowded and minimize sounds and lights. They will also offer designated quiet rooms and extra safety signs. To experience Sensory Friendly Day from 10 AM to 3 PM on April 13, 2020. Since the museum will close to public admittance during this time, it's important to register in advance.

Space Center Houston

Located in Clear Lake, Space Center Houston has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in the metro area. They hold periodic sensory friendly events with designated quiet rooms, modified light and sound, and a lower number of visitors. For 2020, upcoming events are planned between 8 AM and 10 AM on April 4, June 5, August 1, and November 7. You can also take advantage of a more family-friendly, reduced ticket price here.

Other Sensory-Friendly Events in the Houston Area

Families can also enjoy plenty of other sensory-friendly recreational, educational, and entertainment opportunities around Houston. Confirm the schedule because these could be subject to change, but these are some periodic events to take note of:

• You can look for accommodating movie showings at AMC Theaters and live theater and dance at Hobby and Wortham Center.
• The first Sunday of each month is dedicated to children with autism and other special needs at Houston-Area Chuck-E-Cheese locations.
• Sky High Sports Trampoline Park will reduce distractions and dim lights each Tuesday to accommodate customers with sensory issues.
• You can also find Little League teams, martial arts schools, and even sailing classes in and around Houston that are particularly welcoming of and designed for children with a variety of special needs, including sensory issues.
• The Houston Museum of Natural Science also hosts periodic sensory-friendly days. You can also take advantage of such resources as a sensory guide and even a sensory backpack any day.

Besides planned activities, the Houston Metro Area also has plenty of quiet parks, playgrounds, and shops to explore. Some good examples include miles of walking trails in The Woodlands and the quaint shops in Old Town Spring on non-event days. If you or a loved one has to cope with sensory issues, you don't have to stay home.