Outdoor Adventures in San Antonio for Families with Autism
Exploring the great outdoors can be a wonderful experience for families, especially those with children on the autism spectrum. San Antonio offers a range of autism-friendly outdoor activities and places that cater to the sensory needs of these children. This guide aims to help you discover and enjoy these inclusive adventures.
Autism-Friendly Outdoor Activities:
- Sensory-Friendly Parks: Visit Morgan’s Wonderland, the world’s first ultra-accessible theme park designed with individuals with special needs in mind. It offers a fun and safe environment for children of all abilities.
- Quiet Nature Trails: Explore the serene Japanese Tea Garden, which provides a peaceful setting ideal for children who may be overwhelmed by crowded and noisy places.
- Autism-Friendly Outdoor Events: Keep an eye on events at San Antonio Botanical Garden, as they often host sensory-friendly mornings where families can enjoy the gardens in a more relaxed setting.
Tips for Parents:
- Plan Ahead: Check the websites of destinations for accessibility information and quiet times to visit.
- Create a Sensory Kit: Pack items like noise-cancelling headphones, sunglasses, and favorite toys to provide comfort and familiarity.
- Use Social Stories: Prepare your child by using social stories that describe the outdoor activity and what to expect.
- Identify Quiet Zones: Know where you can find calm areas in case your child needs a break from sensory stimulation.
Connecting with Nature:
Spending time in nature can be therapeutic. Places like Brackenridge Park offer wide-open spaces where children can explore and interact with the natural environment at their own pace.
San Antonio’s diverse outdoor offerings provide wonderful opportunities for families with autism to engage with nature in a way that is comfortable and enjoyable for them. From peaceful gardens to sensory-friendly events, there’s something for everyone to explore and enjoy in the great outdoors.
About the Authors
Apara Autism Centers is a leading provider of ABA therapy in Texas to children ages 18 months and up. We understand the difficulty of dealing with uncertainty and are prepared to assist you with our collaborative developmental therapy support. If you’re looking for ABA therapy near you, we have centers in Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and surrounding areas. Apara Autism Centers employs a team of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) and Registered Behavior Technicians (RBT) that can assist you with resources to help comfort your child during stressful times. We include parent training as collaborative support for the whole family. If you need more information, don’t hesitate to call (844) 810-2344 or contact us at info@aparaautism.com with your questions or to enroll. We accept most insurance plans and offer full and part time programs as well as in-home therapy options with no waitlist. AND for those in the San Antonio area, Apara San Antonio is now accepting TRICARE!
