For most, September means fall leaves, cooler weather and warm pumpkin spiced lattes. For Texans, though, we still have a few months of looking for indoor activities to avoid the humidity and rain! Luckily there are a few exciting Sensory Friendly Days happening in September that the entire family will enjoy!

Space Center Houston Sensory Friendly Day
September 23rd

Space Center Houston invites people of all ages diagnosed with conditions such as, but not limited to, autism spectrum disorder and sensory processing disorder, to explore science and space exploration in a reduced sensory environment.

Sensory Friendly Events, presented by THINK Neurology for Kids, provide a sensory-supportive setting including modified lighting, music and sound effects. The number of tickets is limited for these exclusive events to allow visitors to enjoy Space Center Houston in a sensory friendly atmosphere without large crowds.

Visitors can participate in special educational activities operated by instructors who are trained to accommodate guests with sensory sensitivities. There also will be a designated quiet room, supported by THINK Neurology for Kids.

To accommodate more families, they offer Sensory Friendly Event tickets at the special lower price of $15.95 and children three years and younger get in free. 

Learn more here.

Houston Museum of Natural Science Sensory Friendly Day
September 24th

HMNS offers an early opening event where their exhibits and venues, including the Burke Baker Planetarium*, are modified to create a sensory neutral environment for those with sensory sensitivities.

Planetarium Schedule:

  • 9:00 a.m. – Passport to the Universe
  • 9:30 a.m. – Great Planet Adventures
  • 10:00 a.m. – Unseen Universe

*All shows in the Planetarium and Giant Screen Theatre will be sensory-friendly with volume lowered and house lights up. Tickets may be purchased online in advance or at the Box Office the day of your visit.

sensory friendly day

Dallas Zoo Sensory Friendly Day
September 25th

The Dallas Zoo will be open early for families to explore the zoo without the noise, crowds, and stimulation of a typical day. They limit the number of families who can attend, turn down sounds, and provide sensory havens. Families will enjoy exploring nature through fun and inclusive sensory-friendly activities developed by the Dallas Zoo and its partners. 

Learn more here.

If you are looking for year round things to do with kiddos in both Houston and Dallas, be sure to check out our other blogs that our jam-packed with fun!


About the Authors

Apara Autism Center is a leading provider of ABA therapy in Texas. 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, and surrounding areas. Apara Autism Center 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. If you need more information, don’t hesitate to call (844) 272-7223 or contact us with your questions and concerns.