Detroit skyline in the summer.

The holidays are quickly approaching, and so are opportunities for tons of family-friendly activities for kids of all ages. But being sensitive to your child’s specific needs, it can be sometimes be challenging to sort through all the activities that might be right for you. How can you find sensory-friendly events for your kids in Detroit? We’ve done the research for you and have highlighted five events that we think are wonderful choices for your next family outing this holiday season!

The Detroit area is full of festive and fun activities designed primarily to be inclusive of all children, including children and families with sensory-processing disorders and other concerns. Looking to implement or strengthen skills you and your child have learned through ABA Therapy? Check out our top five favorites below for some fantastic events this holiday season.

Two children walking near holiday lights

Five Family-Friendly Detroit-area Holiday Events:

  • Towers of Tomorrow Lego event
  • Sensory-friendly play at Detroit Kid City
  • Dinner with Santa at the Detroit Zoo
  • Movie night at the AMC Theatre
  • Sensory-friendly Santa at Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi

Towers of Tomorrow Lego Event at the Henry Ford Museum

Children and children at heart are encouraged to come and see amazing, larger-than-life Lego skyscrapers at the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn now through January 5, 2020. Kids are even encouraged to build their own Lego creations, as well! The best part? Sensory-friendly Saturday events are offered each week to cater to children and families with special needs.

Sensory-Friendly Play at Detroit Kid City

A great event for children 16 and under, this sensory-friendly event allows kids with sensory-processing disorders to enjoy cardio drumming and marble painting! With two dates to choose from, organizers have cultivated an event sure to provide a safe and fun family-friendly event for you and your kids!

Dinner with Santa at the Detroit Zoo

What are the holidays without a visit to Santa? If the thought of that can give you pause because of the stress and noise, we have just the event for you. Enjoy a buffet-style dinner in the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery, complete with arts and crafts opportunities, and a visit with Santa himself! This year organizers have created a dedicated night aimed at being sensory-friendly: dimmed lights, soft music, and a reduced capacity to create a more serene and enjoyable environment for everyone. Plus, admission to the Wild Lights exhibit is included in your zoo ticket price!

Movie Night at the AMC Theatre

The second and fourth Saturday, as well as every Tuesday night, are considered sensory-friendly programming days at most AMC theatres throughout Detroit. These sensory-friendly showings feature lower volumes and the house lights on to make children of all abilities feel comfortable and safe. Not to mention, they encourage dancing, singing, and exploring during these shows, too! Check out the programming to find the perfect event for your younger and older children, as there’s something for everyone at AMC!

Sensory Santa at Twelve Oaks Mall in Novi

Looking for another opportunity to take your child to see Santa in a less stressful environment? There are plenty of opportunities in the Detroit-metro area! One of our favorites is this Santa experience in Novi. By registering in advance, you can have a dedicated time slot for your child to visit Santa and take pictures with him without the stress of other events. Set in a sensory-minimal environment, this event is sure to be a great addition to your holiday plans!

A Family-Focused Behavioral Wellness Center

At Blossom Children’s Center, we offer a holistic approach to ABA Therapy. We’re family-focused, meaning we aim to provide all the services you need under one roof. We bring together evidence-based ABA Therapy in additional to Speech, Occupational, along with counseling services, as well. Contact us today for services uniquely tailored to your family’s needs.

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