Autism-Friendly Activities in Middlesex County, NJ
Middlesex County, NJ, is a compassionate and welcoming community that truly cares about supporting its residents, especially those with Autism. Recognizing the importance of inclusivity, accessibility, and understanding, Middlesex County, NJ offers a diverse array of autism-friendly activities designed to meet the unique needs of autistic individuals and their families. From sensory-sensitive performances and therapeutic recreational activities to innovative programs that support social navigation needs, physical development, and emotional well-being, the community strives to create environments where everyone can thrive and feel valued. These resources not only provide enjoyable and engaging experiences but also foster a sense of belonging, independence, and confidence.
In this blog, we will take a closer look at some Autism-friendly locations in Middlesex County, NJ, highlighting how the community continues to lead with compassion and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of Autistic children and their families.
Sensory-Friendly Performances: State Theatre New Jersey in New Brunswick, NJ hosts shows designed for those with sensory sensitivities. These performances feature adjusted lighting and sound, a relaxed atmosphere, and trained staff to ensure an enjoyable experience. Additional resources like a break area with soft seating and fidget toys are provided.
Sensory-Friendly Films: AMC in New Brunswick, NJ hosts special movie screenings with lights turned up and sound turned down, creating a sensory-friendly environment. Families can get up, dance, walk, shout, or sing during these sessions. The program is available on the second and fourth Saturday (family-friendly) and Wednesday evenings (mature audiences) each month.
Sensory-Friendly Gym: We Rock the Spectrum Gym in Piscataway, NJ offers specialized equipment to support sensory and motor skill development, including swings for balance and vestibular treatment, crash mats for motor planning, a zip slider for relaxation, a trampoline for strength, and a calming room for emotion regulation.
Sensory-Friendly Play: Urban Air in Milltown, NJ offers events specifically designed for children with Autism and special needs to enjoy time at the park without loud music or flashing lights. These sessions allow kids to have fun in a safe, sensory-friendly environment free from overwhelming stimuli.
Accommodating Indoor Skydiving: The All Abilities program at iFLY in Edison, NJ offers individuals with various differences—including physical limitations such as limited mobility, neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD, Autism, and learning disabilities, as well as mental health conditions like anxiety and OCD—the chance to enjoy the thrill of indoor skydiving. With the support of highly trained instructors who provide personalized guidance and accommodations, this program ensures a safe, welcoming, and inclusive experience that empowers everyone to participate and have fun.
Sensory-Sensitive Arcade: Chuck E. Cheese in Edison, NJ hosts special Sensory Sensitive Sundays on the first Sunday of each month, creating a quieter, more calming environment for children with sensory sensitivities. With dimmed lighting, reduced noise levels, and a soothing atmosphere, families can enjoy games, food, and activities without overwhelming sights and sounds. The game room transforms into a sensory-friendly space, and staff are trained to provide thoughtful assistance, ensuring a safe, fun, and inclusive experience for all guests.
Sensory Play Activities: New Market in Metuchen, NJ is hosting a Summer Sensory Series in partnership with Tiny & Bubbs every Tuesday throughout July and August, offering engaging hands-on sensory experiences for children 3 and up. Each week features a new theme, including Dino Dig with fossil-making using air-dry clay, Underwater Adventure with kinetic sand, Playdough Garden with flowers and bugs, and Out of This World with glow-in-the-dark dough and galaxy-themed fun. These lively sessions provide children with creative opportunities to explore, learn, and play in a supportive, stimulating environment, making for a memorable and enriching summer activity.
In conclusion, Middlesex County, NJ, exemplifies a community deeply committed to fostering an inclusive, supportive environment where individuals with Autism can thrive and feel valued. Through a wide array of sensory-friendly performances, recreational activities, and engaging community events, Middlesex, New Jersey offers something for everyone—whether it's enjoying a sensory-sensitive movie, participating in therapeutic play, or experiencing the thrill of indoor skydiving. These initiatives not only provide enjoyable opportunities for fun and social connection but also serve as vital resources that promote independence, confidence, and emotional well-being. As the community continues to lead with compassion and innovation, Middlesex sets an example of how to create an inclusive space where all residents can feel a part of the community. However, there remains an important need for expanding these efforts—more activities and programs are essential to better support the diverse and evolving needs of neurodivergent children. Creating a broader, welcoming, and affirming environment is crucial to ensuring every child feels understood, valued, and included. As Middlesex continues to grow in its dedication to inclusivity, it can serve as a model for others seeking to build communities that genuinely embrace and celebrate neurodiversity.
As a neurodiversity-affirming play therapist and the founder of True Reflections Mental Health Services in Middlesex, NJ, I am dedicated to supporting children who experience neurodivergence, such as ADHD and Autism. I see clients from my welcoming and safe home office, which features a specially-designed sensory-friendly playroom. In this space, lighting and noise levels can be adjusted to create a calming environment tailored to each individual’s needs. Many toys are organized in bins for easy access, and toys can be covered if someone feels overstimulated. The playroom is equipped with a variety of seating options to ensure comfort, along with sensory regulation items such as fidgets, Play-Doh, sensory balls, sand, weighted blankets, and stuffed animals, all of which support regulation and relaxation. I work with clients who experience anxiety, trauma, and sensory overload, providing support that emphasizes their strengths and resilience. My approach is rooted in neurodiversity-affirming practices, meaning I honor and celebrate the natural variations in brain wiring and functioning, viewing neurodivergence as a difference rather than a deficit. I support children in developing skills related to social navigation, emotional identification and expression, connecting with others, managing sensory needs, and advocating for themselves. As a registered play therapist and a neurodivergent myself, I bring personal experience and understanding to my work, emphasizing a strengths-based perspective and incorporating each child's unique interests into our sessions. My goal is to empower children to recognize their strengths, build confidence, and thrive as their authentic selves within a supportive, affirming environment that truly respects neurodiversity.
Find Support With Play Therapy for Autistic Children in Middlesex, NJ
Is your Autistic child facing challenges in their daily life? Book a play therapy session with a compassionate and experienced neurodivergent therapist at True Reflections. Discover valuable insights and receive the support your child needs in just three easy steps:
Request an appointment to get scheduled
Begin play therapy sessions with a skilled neurodivergent affirming therapist
Find compassionate support to help your Autistic child cope and thrive!
Other Services Offered at True Reflections
At True Reflections Mental Health Services, I’m here to help you be your authentic self and help you overcome anything with mental health support. So in addition to providing Play Therapy, I also offer Neurodiversity Affirming ADHD and Autism Evaluations, Autism and Anxiety Therapy, ADHD and Anxiety Therapy, Trauma Therapy for ADHD and Austim, Affirming Therapy for those with ADHD, Affirming Therapy for those with Autism, and Prenatal and Postpartum Therapy. I also offer different treatment modalities such as Sandtray Therapy, EMDR Therapy, DBT Therapy, and more. My services are offered in both Middlesex, NJ as well as online in the state of New Jersey and Florida. Check out my blog for more topics!
Janine Kelly, MSW, LCSW, C-NDAAP, ADHD-CCSP, ASDCS, PMH-C, RPT-S™, C-DBT, CBT-C, CCATP-CA, CATP is a neurodivergent play therapist and the Founder of True Reflections Mental Health Services in Middlesex, NJ. She provides therapy and Neurodiversity Affirming Comprehensive ADHD & Autism Evaluations to children, teens, and adults in-person and virtually in the state of New Jersey. Janine specializes in the diagnosis of ADHD & Autism in girls and women.
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