Activities for young adults and kids with autism

Offering a unique sensory play experience for children, teens, and young adults, The Shine Shed welcomes everyone. Parents and carers can come for free. Trampolines, a climbing gym, flying fox, and foam pits are just the start of the fun.

At Sydney’s incredible Maritime Museum, people with autism can enjoy Sensory-Friendly Sundays. You can create your own artworks and participate in sensory science activities. There are quiet chill-out spaces, and sound and light levels make sure your experience is comfortable.

Social Minds provides social skills support for children, teenagers and young adults who have an ASD diagnosis. The evidence-based programs are adjusted according to age and help people to learn how to navigate their social world.Topics include entering and exiting conversations, managing emotions, expressing thoughts and feelings in appropriate ways, and navigating bullying, rumours, and gossip. There’s also a sensory room.

The Legoland Discovery Centre is a popular attraction for Lego lovers of all ages. Once every three months, the centre runs a low sensory morning. Sound and light levels are reduced in certain areas, there are quiet spaces, and trained staff are on hand to ensure visitors have a great time. Otherwise, the centre recommends visiting early in the afternoon during the week, outside of school holidays when it’s quieter and less crowded. Find the sensory map here and accessibility info here.

Visit the world’s largest Little Penguin colony. Phillip Island Nature Park is a certified sensory-inclusive site with trained staff.Sensory bags are provided that contain noise-cancelling headphones, verbal cue cards, and fidget tools. Visitors can get a weighted lap pad for free. When a sensory break is needed, there are Designated Quiet Areas and Headphone Zones. Here is the park’s sensory story.

Located in Ipswich, the Workshops Rail Museum is a fun and educational look into the history of train travel in Queensland. Check out the Tilt Train simulator, visit railway workshops, and explore the many exhibits. Sensory-friendly sessions are offered during school holidays and the museum is usually quieter between 2-4pm on school days. Companion Cards are accepted. The venue is accessible and you can click here for the museum’s sensory-friendly map.