April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time to celebrate and support individuals across the entire spectrum. It's an opportunity to foster greater understanding, inclusion, and appreciation for the diverse ways people experience the world.
For many, environments like loud gyms and bustling playgrounds can be overwhelming, making it difficult to fully enjoy recreational activities. Fortunately, Collin County and surrounding areas offer a variety of sensory-friendly spaces for individuals of all abilities to participate, play and thrive.
We Rock The Spectrum
1941 Preston Road, Suite 1022, Plano
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Everyone is welcome at We Rock the Spectrum! The sensory-friendly indoor gym is designed for every kiddo, featuring swings, a zip line, crash mats, a trampoline, a crafts area, a calming room and more. Now that’s what we call rocking!
Down to Play
6464 Northwest Hwy Suite 138, Dallas
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Down to Play features a spacious 3,500-square-foot playground designed with special needs in mind. The playground caters to infants through elementary-age kids, with three distinct zones for safe, age-appropriate play. Dedicated toddler and baby areas ensure a secure and engaging experience for the youngest visitors.
The sensory room provides a calming retreat, supporting cognitive and sensory development while encouraging socialization. DTP also offers party rooms for birthdays and celebrations, along with amenities like free Wi-Fi and a coffee bar to keep parents entertained too.
Hope Park
8000 McKinney Rd, Frisco
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Hope Park isn’t just a playground — it’s a full-blown kiddie kingdom, complete with a wooden fence to keep even the best escape artists contained. This place is a mini-metropolis of fun, with winding walkways, towering turrets, daring bridges and slides galore. And of course, the OG playground crew is all here — swings, merry-go-rounds and teeter-totters, ready to make parents nostalgic and kids dizzy. Complete with a full "sensory area," this park ensures the kids stay busy all day long.
It’s a Sensory World
13617 Neutron Rd, Farmers Branch
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For a structured and engaging experience, sign your child up for a sensory circuit session at It's a Sensory World. This learning and play destination boasts two sensory gyms equipped with swings, rock walls, slides and trampolines. Additionally, they provide an academy, social skills programs and camps for more long-term activities.
Chuck E. Cheese
Multiple locations
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On the first Sunday of each month, select Chuck E. Cheese locations host Sensory Sensitive Sundays, opening early for a more comfortable environment. Features include dimmed lighting, lowered music and show volumes, quieter arcade games and fewer crowds. Please check with your local Chuck E. Cheese to verify their participation.
Peppa Pig Theme Park
8851 Blvd 26, North Richland Hills, Fort Worth
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Amusement parks are often known for their sensory challenges, but the new Peppa Pig Theme Park is a Certified Autism Center (CAC), ensuring an inclusive environment. At least 80% of staff are trained to support individuals with autism, offering expert care. Attractions like Peppa Pig’s Balloon Ride feature accessible baskets, while the Muddy Puddles Splash Pad has a graded surface for easy access. Peppa’s Pedal Bike Tour meets all ADA guidelines.
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