Toys and dolls provide opportunities for children, including those with special needs to learn through play, but also provide support for emotional and social skills. If you are looking for a doll, toy or figure, whether it’s for sensory needs or general play, here are some toys with inclusive aspects for kids with special needs.
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Events This Week
May 3, 2026 - May 10, 2026
This Week Navigation
May 3
Lamb Jam at Lake Metroparks Farmpark
May 3
Help shear a sheep, spin wool, weave on a loom and learn to make felt at Lake Metroparks Farmpark all weekend. The border collies will also show off their moves.
May 3
Healthy Kids Day
May 3
Free activities focused on active physical play, nutrition education, STEM, the arts, and more.
For over 30 years, Ys have celebrated Healthy Kids Day by hosting these events. This year, the Akron Area YMCA association will be joining together to present an afternoon highlighting the great things that the Y offers.
Ages 3-12 years.
1-4 p.m.
May 3
Maddi’s Fridge
May 3
Based on the book by Lois Brandt, Sofia learns a secret about her friend Maddi’s fridge and is faced with a difficult decision.
May 3
The Wizard of Oz
May 3
Follow the yellow brick road and experience the magic with Dorothy and her friends as they travel to Oz.
May 4
Family Fun at Talespinner Children’s Theatre
May 4
A free, season-announcement brunch including an excerpt from an upcoming show, and hands-on activities.
May 4
Adapted Sports Nights
May 4
Individuals with disabilities will throw mini javelins & softballs, run the obstacle course, kick soccer balls and more.
May 4
Family Fun at Talespinner Children’s Theatre
May 4
A free, season-announcement brunch including an excerpt from an upcoming show, and hands-on activities.
May 4
Baby And Me Story Time
May 4
Experience a fun interactive session using songs, rhymes, puppets, and musical instruments.
May 5
May 5
Toddler-to-Preschool Exploratory Art Series
May 5
Children explore colors, textures, light, and sound to expand their senses, socialize, and work through emotions.
May 5
Books, Beats and Bubbles
May 5
A musical story time for families with toe-tapping tunes, instruments and dancing.
May 5
Changing Problem Behavior Into Positive Behavior
May 5
A seminar for parents of children with developmental disabilities.
May 5
Music & Movement
May 5
Fun, interactive storytime featuring music and creative movement while introducing stories and early literacy concepts.
May 6
Junior Golf Fundamentals
May 6
Children ages 8-12 will be introduced to golf fundamentals and etiquette to be successful on the course for four consecutive weeks.
May 7
Jr. Cavs Adapted Basketball
May 7
Beginner sessions are held for athletes ages 5 and up that are new to basketball or may need additional support.
May 7
May 7
May 7
Adaptive: Discovery Sampler: Martial Arts
May 7
Participants in grades K-5th have the opportunity to try Taekwondo alongside peers.
May 8
Storytime with Josh
May 8
Spark a Love of Science Through Stories with Josh Avsec, Associate Director of Museum Experience.
May 8
Maifest German Festival
May 8
Celebrate the coming of spring with a traditional German festival filled with beers, brats, and bands!
May 8 @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Mother’s Day Drop Off Date Night Workshop
May 8 @ 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Drop the kids off and enjoy a night out!
Kids will create two handmade gifts, get glammed up, and enjoy pizza with friends.
May 9
Community Festival and Walk: The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
May 9
Event Details
The community is invited to join the DCNEO Community Festival & Walk, a free, family-centered celebration at the Science Center.
May 9
A Garden Gift for Mom
May 9
Children 8-12 will learn the art of “random weave” basketry as they shape natural vines into a hanging basket.
May 9
Community Festival and Walk: The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
May 9
A free, family-centered celebration.
May 9
High School Career Day at the Aquarium
May 9
Discover aquatic careers and meet a variety of aquarium professionals—from aquarists to educators and guest experience staff—who share their career journeys, educational paths and tips on building resumes and preparing for college.
May 9
Once Upon a Story
May 9
Join in the fun with: stories, crafts, songs, and more to celebrate the tales that bring pure joy.
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