Find activities and events for children with special needs and their parents and families. Many events provide sensory-friendly and inclusive activities for all abilities. Check out the following happenings in the region.
DAY-BY-DAY
February 7
Helping Your Special Needs Child Navigate Teen Temptations. Experts will empower you to have conversations and support your children in navigating these situations. 6:30-8 p.m. Julie Billiart Schools, 4982 Clubside Road, Lyndhurst, juliebilliartscchool.org
February 10-12 & March /10-12
Respite Weekend. A great way for first-time campers to gain a short overnight experience. Geared toward children with disabilities ages 6-17. Akron Area YMCA Rotary Camp 4460 Rex Lake Dr., Akron, gotcamp.org
February 11
Adapted Storytime. Children with varying learning styles and abilities learn together in a safe, supportive environment where respect and appreciation for differences is encouraged. 11 a.m. Euclid Public Library, 631 E. 222nd St., euclidlibrary.org
February 27
Sensory Friendly Story Time. Especially for children on the autism spectrum or those with sensory integration challenges. 6:30-7 p.m. Wadsworth Public Library, 132 Broad St., wadsworthlibrary.com
March 1, 14 & 25
Connecting for Kids Resource Fairs. Resources for families with concerns about their youth. March 1: Tri-C Eastern Campus, Highland Hills. March 14: Lorain County Community College, Elyria. March 25: Don Umerley Civic Center, Rocky River. connectingforkids.org
March 4-6
Inclusion Days at the Akron Zoo. Wear orange for free admission and celebrate March DD Awareness Month. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. 505 Euclid Ave., Akron, akronzoo.org
PICK A DAY
MONDAY-SATURDAY
Winter Woodland. Beautiful artwork made by Monarch Center for Autism students using inspiration from winter animals & imagery. Through 2/15. Eton, 28867 Chagrin Blvd., Woodmere, etonchagrinblvd.com
MONDAY & THURSDAY
Victory Athletics Fitness Program. Provides coaching, training and guidance to children and young adults dealing with mental, physical and emotional disorders. Through 3/27. 5 p.m. Victory Gallop, 1745 N. Hametown Road, Akron, victorygallop.org
WEDNESDAYS
Therapeutic Art Series. A board certified art therapist will lead you through art experiences that focus on using art media for expression and self awareness. Grades 7-12. Through 3/15. 9-10 a.m. North Canton Public Library, 185 N. Main St., ncantonlibrary.com
SATURDAYS
Parent/Child Yoga. Introductory class that incorporates music, story-telling and games in a relaxing, fun environment. Ages 5-8. Through 3/4. 9:30-10:15 a.m. Beyond Words, 6048 Royalton Road, N. Royalton, beyondwordscenter.org
SUNDAYS
Sunday Circle. Children gain positive experiences in group activities while receiving one-on-one attention. 12:30-2:30 p.m. Friendship Circle, 27900 Gates Mills Blvd., Pepper Pike, friendscleveland.com
ONGOING
Therapeutic Riding. Horseback riding lessons for individuals with special needs. Chasing Hope Equestrian Center, 17393 Whitehead Road, Lagrange, chasinghopeequestriancenter.org
