Autism Awareness Month

Check out some local businesses in our community that are doing their part to be all involved in this awareness.

April is Autism awareness month and while I do hope that most are aware of Autism and informed about the spectrum, my wish would be that April (and every other month) would be Autism INCLUSION month. Did you know that 1 in 6 people has a sensory need or an invisible disability (PTSD, Autism, Strokes, and Dementia just to name a few)? Did you also know that there are several local places working hard night and day to make sure they are accommodating in every way to every single person in our community regardless? I just wanted to take a few minutes, as someone who has had personal experiences with Autism, and highlight some of the local businesses in our community that are doing their part to be all involving while acknowledging that we all have different needs.

Let’s start with The Birmingham Zoo. One of the first things we noticed when the zoo reopened after it’s amazing “face lift” was the sensory room near the restrooms when you first walk through the entrance. For anyone who is overstimulated or just needs a quiet place to regroup, you are welcome here. You’ll notice the signage as you walk throughout the zoo indicating “Quiet Zones” where there is little activity and offer spaces to sit down or regroup if overstimulation does occur. Most of the indoor spaces tend to be louder and noisier so there is signage that deems these areas “Headphone Zones.” The Birmingham Zoo also has weighted lap pads to help during activities where sitting is required such as the train, the sea lion show, or the wildlife show. The zoo itself is also wheelchair accessible throughout it’s entirety, including both the carousel and the train as well. Overall, if you or anyone in your party has any disabilities or sensory sensitivities, this is such a great place to visit and enjoy.

The McWane Science Center is another fun filled way to spend your day and ensure that everyone in your group is included. There are so many educational things to do and the interactive portions are unrivaled. Accessibility elevators and ramps can be found in all public areas including the IMAX Dome Theater. In addition to all of the in-person fun, The McWane Center also offers a “Virtual McWane” where children can participate in science activities and educational videos. Stay Home Science and McWane on the Web are other great programs designed to help your children learn in fun educational ways even from the comfort of your own home.

Another Birmingham attraction that is sensory friendly and disability accessible is The Birmingham Museum of Art. There are many accommodations for visitors with a variety of needs including those who use mobility devices, have low or no vision, are color blind, or have other sensory sensitivities. They have done a fantastic job teaming up with the Autism Society of Alabama to provide sensory packets. These packets are available upon request at either entrance and include ear plus, sunglasses, and fidgets.

The Vulcan looks after us in more ways than one…From high on the hill overlooking downtown for miles and learning how to better serve our community through sensory inclusivity. They set a goal about 4 years ago to provide a positive experience to those with sensory issues and they have used sensory bags to aid in this endeavor. These bags include noise canceling headphones, earplugs, verbal cue cards, fidget toys, and weighted lap pads. Anyone in the Visitors Center will be more than glad to provide you and your party with one of these bags to ensure that everyone is included in the fun.

One place I recently discovered is the sensory nature trail at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. The garden is beautiful and calming in and of itself, but the sensory nature trail allows you to look, see, and feel different things all throughout the garden. The fact that this is just a large quiet outdoor space is reason enough for us to venture out and enjoy a beautiful relaxing day.

AMC has partnered with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings. Sensory Friendly Films is a national organization that exists to improve the lives of all affected by autism. Not only do they turn the lights up and turn the sound down so you can get up, dance, walk, shout, sing, or whatever makes you happy, but also they are increasing public awareness of autism, advocating for appropriate services, and providing the latest information on treatment, education, research, advocacy. These Sensory Friendly Film programs are available on the second and fourth Saturday of every month and are family friendly in nature.

Red Mountain Park opened the Butler Snow Sensory Trail in 2018 which includes 14 different activity stations engaging the senses from smelling herbs and touching different forest materials to birdcalls and musical pots and pans. This trail also includes a short tock wall, bench swings, and a quiet zone for families to sit and take it all in. This trail is about 0.14 miles long and is located near the entrance of the park. P.S. There’s also a dog park…How’s that for including the whole family?

The Hoover Met Complex has cozy spots including a rocking robin, motion features, and sensory features specifically designed to provide children the opportunity to activate technology devices on the playground. The swings are designed to accommodate people of all ages and abilities. Even the colors and textures that are found throughout the playground are purposefully designed. They are also home to an adult changing room, which is the first of its kind for an outdoor playground/splash pad.

A favorite for us when my oldest was between 3-6 was Let’s Play. If cleanliness is next to Godliness than Let’s Play is a little piece of Heaven on Earth. It is always spotless and you will always find someone somewhere cleaning something. Let’s Play hosts Sensory Friendly night on the second Tuesday of every month. The facilities are closed to the general public during this time so be sure to mention you are there for “Sensory friendly play.” The lights are dimmed and the noises are reduced giving you and your family and fun filled sensory friendly environment to enjoy. Also, be sure to bring socks for you and everyone in your party. I say this because I was unaware at 33+ years old, when I would not be partaking in the climbing of the things, that I would need socks to chill on the wall with the other parents doing the same but the 17 year old managers are good at handling kiddos and parents alike so moral of the story…Everyone will need socks regardless of any activities you will or will not be doing. Also in case I forgot to mention, EVERYONE needs socks.

Urban Air is another great location that we have recently learned about, who offers sensory friendly play on select dates/times. It’s specifically geared for children with Autism and special needs to enjoy time at the park without loss music or flashing lights. Socks are also a requirement here as well (but only for those participating). They are available for purchase at each location if you forget to bring yours.

Those are just 10 of the places here in our wonderful city that are striving to make a difference to be all inclusive for any and everyone with Autism or special needs. We are so grateful for the effort that is being made to ensure that everyone is afforded the same opportunities. Also, this article is thanks in large part to a nonprofit organization known as KultureCity by creating sensory accessibility and inclusion for those with invisible disabilities. If you don’t know about KultureCity, especially if you or a loved one is affected by a sensory sensitivity or disability, I strongly urge you to check them out. They are leading the way for great change right here in Birmingham, Alabama.

DIY fidgets are a wonderful tool for helping children with autism manage daily stress, stay focused on a task at hand and self-regulate their emotions.

HERE are some fun and easy figit toys you can make at home!

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Spring Time Has Sprung!

It’s officially Springtime, so let’s all pop a Claritin and check out some fun local places you’ll want to be sure to visit.

We have made a list of 10 places for you and your family to enjoy while the weather is just right.

We have the best gardens, some fun parks, and lot’s more to do as we come into Spring!

First on our list is the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. We chose this spot for many reasons. It’s fun for all ages, they offer classes like yoga (for the entire family), gardening for children and adults, Thyme to Read book club is a must (with zoom options available), breath taking scenery for photography sessions (wink wink), and the best part of all…It’s FREE! https://bbgardens.org
Next up is The Market at Pepper Place. Pepper Place is a Saturday morning (7 AM-12 PM) Farmer’s Market located in the Pepper Place Entertainment District. Come and support Alabama farmers and food producers, jewelry makers, woodworkers, potters, graphic designers, and everything in between. There is live music and the chef exhibitions are a personal favorite. https://www.pepperplace.com
Calling all spring nature lovers…You don’t want to miss a trip to Aldridge Gardens. Located in Hoover, it combines nature and art with storywalk. Storywalk is sponsored by the Hoover Public Library and is geared towards early readers. With 18 different panels in each book it is sure to leave you and your kiddos filled with wonder and adventure. Small kiddos will enjoy seeing the village of gnome homes (say that 5 times fast) as well. Aldridge Gardens is open daily from 8 AM-7 PM weather permitting. There is also a lake on site and fishing is allowed Monday-Thursday. Pets are also welcome ensuring they are leashed and that owners be mindful of cleaning up. https://aldridgegardens.com
Thirsty? Regions Field is home of the Birmingham Barons and is always a hit (pun most definitely intended). There are lots of specials like $2 Tuesdays, Paws and Claws, Thirsty Thursdays, Firework Fridays, and lots more so be sure to follow the link below for all of the great promo info. It’s a good time for all, with everything from amazing food (make sure to try the Irish nachos) to bouncy houses, while you enjoy America’s favorite pastime. Another favorite here at Regions Park is the 7th inning stretch. Regions field sits adjacent to Children’s of Alabama and during the 7th inning, field lights go off, flashlights are turned on, and you can see some of the most precious tiny humans standing at the glass windows shining their bright lights right back towards the stadium. https://www.milb.com/birmingham/
Barber Motorsports Park is home to the Honda Indy Grand Prix for the 12th year. This event takes place over 3 days from April 29th-May 1st and features the same cars and drivers that compete in the indy 500. There are lots of off track activities too including an exotic car show and a wine and beer festival as well. it also includes Barber Vintage Motorsport Museum that has been named the World’s Largest Motorcycle Museum by the Guiness World Records. https://barberracingevents.com
1 kiddo wants to go to an amusement park for the day, the other would rather enjoy a water park…I’ve got the solution! Alabama Adventure/Splash Adventure is a combination amusement park/water park where everyone is guaranteed to have fun. Park admission includes free pepsi soft drinks, complimentary parking, tubes, life jackets, wifi, and sunscreen. They offer a variety of waterslides, thrill rides, and activities for all ages. Rocket Racer is the newest addition and is the largest waterslide in the state featuring a six lane racing slide that will take you, your family, and friends in a high speed head first race to the bottom for a victory dip. Planning to stay all day? Cabanas are available for rent on a first come first serve basis and include a table and chairs. There are discounts offered for military and medical professionals. Pro Tip: If you plan to go more than once, go ahead and purchase a season pass. It’ll pay for itself by your second visit. https://alabamaadventure.com
Nothing could be cooler than a nice spring day at Slippery Summit Aqua Park. Located in Cullman, this aqua park is such a one of a kind experience. Run, climb, jump, swing, and slide at the largest aqua park of its kind. It’s a giant inflatable playground…On water. Admission is $10/hour per person and is such a fun time for birthdays or events. Must be 6 and up to participate. https://slipperysummit.com
Hoover Met Complex Explore Park and Splash Pad park is a favorite for so many reasons. First, let’s mention that it’s FREE. Second, the diligent cleaning of this area, the water, and the equipment are of the utmost importance and it definitely shows. Thirdly, did I mention it’s FREE? Another reason this location is a favorite is that it’s all inclusive in every sense of the word, featuring sensory areas and an adult changing room. Musical play, a double zip track, a roller slide, and Carly’s Clubhouse are just a few of the wonderful well thought features you’ll find here. Recommended for ages 2-12. https://hoovermetcomplex.com/explore-play/
For a fun day of breath taking views, good food, and even better dessert head towards Bluff Park. Park on the bluff and go see some of Birmingham’s most spectacular scenery, walk across the street to Mr P’s or Bluff Park Diner for food you’ll be sure to come back for, and then head on over to the Bluff Park Ice Cream Shoppe for a real treat. Next, head to Bluff Park Community Park for some playground action or if you’re feeling more adventurous and need to burn off some of your wonderful food, go enjoy the trails at Moss Rock Preserve for 12 miles of hiking trails and rock climbing. http://www.hooveral.org/1095/Bluff-Park-Community-Park http://www.hooveral.org/214/Moss-Rock-Preserve
Last on the list is Red Mountain Park, but it is certainly not the least. 15 miles boasting wonderful trails for biking, walking, running, and hiking. If you have small kiddos you’ll definitely appreciate the flat trails for easy walking and stroller use. There are areas for climbing and zip lining as well as cool look outs all over the park. Near the entrance of the park you’ll find a sensory trail including 14 activities complete with a comfort zone full of swinging benches and pergolas. Had a ruff day? There’s also a dog park. https://redmountainpark.org

I certainly hope you find time to check out some or all of these local favorites and share them with family and friends.

We enjoy being outdoors this time of year and hope this list is useful in finding fun new places to spend your warmer days.