Sensory-friendly family activities for the holidays in Metro Vancouver
For families with children who have sensory processing challenges, it can be a struggle to find family-friendly events that aren’t overwhelming. Here is a round-up of some sensory friendly experiences the whole family can enjoy.
Quiet Time With Santa
This sensory friendly morning will provide an opportunity to families to meet Santa, without the bustle of holiday shoppers. Hosted at Park Royal South Centre Court, December 11 from 8.30am to 10.30am.
Sensory Hour at Skyzone Trampoline Park
Offered most Monday evenings from 6pm-8pm (double-check their events calendar before you go), Sensory Hour offers a quieter way to experience this family fun spot, with music turned down and specially trained staff.
Sensory Friendly Screenings at Cineplex Entertainment
New release films are presented in a lights up, sound down environment. Screenings are offered every 4- weeks on Saturday mornings, and all guests pay only the child ticket price.
cineplex.com/Theatres/SensoryFriendly
Sensory-Friendly Vancouver Parks Board Programming
Vancouver Parks will now provide training to all 1,000 staff members on autism spectrum disorder, provided by the Autism Society of BC. Training will start as early as January 2017, so watch your local community centre for sensory friendly programming such as swimming, art and dance classes.
And check regularly on the events page for the Autism Society of BC as they host sensory friendly events at many popular lower mainland attractions such as Wild Play, Science World, the Aquarium, & bowling.
