Tag: Massachusetts

5 Sensory-Friendly Activities for Kids with Autism in Sturbridge, MA 

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Planning outings for children on the autism spectrum can require thoughtful choices. Loud sounds, bright lights, or busy crowds can sometimes turn fun outings into stressful ones. 

Sensory-friendly places do things differently. They offer softer lighting, quieter settings, and clear routines. That can help kids stay calm and enjoy the experience. 

Sturbridge blends historical charm, parks, and community spaces. Several local spots now offer environments suited for children with sensory sensitivities. 

Here are five sensory-friendly places in and near Sturbridge: 

1. Take a break from game day at the Polar Park Sensory Room 

Polar Park in Worcester, home of the Worcester Red Sox, includes a free Sensory Room in the Country Bank Fan Services Center. It features soft lighting, flexible seating, and calming tools for kids who need a break from stadium noise. 

Tip for Families: Check for Autism Awareness or Sensory Friendly games. Arrive early to explore the room before the game starts. 

2. Watch a movie in comfort at Cinemagic in Sturbridge 

Cinemagic Sturbridge offers Sensory & Family Friendly screenings. The volume stays low, and the lights stay on. Children can move freely, talk, and enjoy the movie. 

Tip for Families: Call ahead for screening times. 

3. Plan your visit with tools from Old Sturbridge Village 

Old Sturbridge Village provides a “know-before-you-go” social story, visual schedules, and sensory guides. Visitors can plan around exhibits and quiet zones. 

Tip for Families: Download materials from the accessibility page ahead of time. Visit on weekdays for smaller crowds. 

4. Find calm and space outdoors at Wells State Park 

Wells State Park lies just north of Sturbridge and covers 1,400 acres. It includes 12 miles of trails through forests and wetlands. Its natural setting and open areas reduce sensory overload. 

Tip for Families: Choose short trails near Walker Pond. Bring water, bug spray, and a picnic for easy breaks. 

5. Attend inclusive events at Venture Community Services 

Venture Community Services in Sturbridge hosts free adaptive events. These include yoga, seasonal fairs, and sensory-friendly movies. 

Tip for Families: Call or visit their website to check the next event.  

Why Sensory-Friendly Matters 

Children on the autism spectrum often need predictable, gentle environments. Places that lower noise, lighting, and crowding give them space to engage and enjoy. 

Check out our LEARN Behavioral blog on 5 simple play ideas for more sensory-friendly ideas. 

Looking for additional support? 

At Behavioral Concepts (BCI), we offer applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy tailored to your child’s strengths and needs. We use science, compassion, and data to help children grow. Learn more about our services and contact us today! 

Behavioral Concepts New Learning Center Now Open in Lawrence, MA

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No Waitlist and Flexible Hours for Essex County Area Families

Behavioral Concepts (BCI), a provider of LEARN Behavioral, has recently opened the doors of their new Learning Center at 360 Merrimack Street, Suite 132, Lawrence, MA 01843.

BCI is Lawrence’s premiere contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) provider of center-based autism services for children ages 2-6 years. The new Lawrence Learning Center provides parent education, diagnostics, Early Intervention, center-based ABA therapy, and in-home ABA therapy.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce was held on June 23, 2025. During the ceremony, Ana Levy, Councilor at Large, City of Lawrence, offered greetings and remarks. State Representative Francisco Paulino, Mayor Brian A. DePeña, Michael Bevilacqua, President/CEO of Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce, and District Director Marina Acosta from Senator Pavel Payano’s office attended, along with a number of city council members, school committee members, and Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commercemembers.

Official citations were presented to the BCI leadership team by Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Michael Bevilacqua and Chairman Michael Sullivan, the Lawrence City Council representatives, and the City of Lawrence Mayor Brian A. DePena.

Ribbon-cutting attendees had an opportunity to tour the facility and meet BCI’s leadership team, Meghan Van Nostrand, Ph.D., LABA, BCBA-D, Senior Regional Clinical Director and Ashley Williams, Ph.D., BCBA-D, LABA, Vice President.

“We are excited to open our doors and bring compassionate, contemporary ABA therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder to families in Essex County and beyond,” said Meghan Van Nostrand, Senior Regional Clinical Director at BCI. “We value being a part of the Lawrence community and look forward to collaborating with fellow organizations and professionals to help find success for every child in our care.” 

The new Lawrence Learning Center provides center-based contemporary ABA therapy, as well as family treatment guidance and assessment in the city of Lawrence. There are very few ABA centers in Lawrence. The Learning Center serves children 2- 6 years old with personalized therapy plans.

With no waitlist and flexible treatment hours to accommodate busy family schedules, the center is now enrolling new clients in the Essex County area and beyond.

About BCI

BCI, part of the LEARN Behavioral network, is one of the nation’s leading providers of compassionate autism care. For more than 20 years, BCI has been delivering evidence-based services, helping children with autism find success and reach their unique potential.

The Lawrence Learning Center is BCI’s fourteenth center-based ABA therapy location, with existing Learning Centers in Beverly, Brockton, Fitchburg, Framingham, Lowell, New Bedford, Newton, Springfield, Taunton, Wilmington, two locations in Worcester, MA, and a location in Nashua, NH.

For more information or to enroll a child at the Lawrence Learning Center, call 508-281-9411 or visit https://bciaba.com/locations/lawrence

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About LEARN Behavioral

LEARN Behavioral is a national leader in autism treatment, offering comprehensive diagnostic services and contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). With a nationwide network of ABA providers and more than 100 Learning Centers across the country, LEARN delivers the highest standard of evidence-based care—customized to meet the unique needs and interests of each child and family. For more information, visit learnbehavioral.com.

Discover 5 Sensory-Friendly Spots for Families in New Bedford, MA 

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For many families, planning a day out is a straightforward task. But for those with children who have sensory sensitivities or are on the autism spectrum, it can be a bit more complex.  

Children with sensory sensitivities sometimes experience the world in a heightened way. Bright lights might feel piercing, loud sounds overwhelming, and bustling environments sometimes a little too bustling. This can make even everyday activities feel daunting to plan. 

That’s why sensory-friendly environments can be so important for families with kids on the autism spectrum. They are spaces designed to dial back noise, reduce harsh lighting, and create a calm, welcoming atmosphere.  

If you’re in New Bedford, MA, the city is home to several venues that prioritize sensory-friendly experiences. Here’s a look at five places that cater to families with sensory challenges. 

1. Whaling Museum Hosts Quiet Mornings 

The New Bedford Whaling Museum offers sensory-friendly mornings on select days, featuring reduced noise, dimmed lighting, and fewer visitors. Kids can explore giant whale skeletons and engaging exhibits without the sensory overload. The museum also provides social narratives and tools to help families prepare in advance. 

Tips for families: Borrow noise-canceling headphones and sensory kits at the front desk 

2. Art Museum Offers a Calm Creative Space 

The New Bedford Art Museum is a small, quiet space that’s ideal for kids who enjoy art without large crowds or loud noise. Rotating exhibits and hands-on art activities encourage exploration and expression in a low-key environment. 

Tips for families: Ask about drop-in art-making sessions or quiet hours. 

3. Zoo Provides Sensory Tools and Maps 

Buttonwood Park Zoo offers sensory-friendly supports such as sensory bags, a downloadable sensory map, and special quiet days. It’s a manageable-size zoo with wide paths and plenty of quiet corners. 

Tips for families: Borrow a sensory bag with fidgets and headphones at the entrance. 

4. Groundwork Hosts Inclusive Family Events 

Groundwork is a coworking space that regularly hosts low-key community events including sensory-friendly art shows, yoga, and workshops. It’s a flexible, welcoming space that feels more like a living room than a venue. 

Tips for families: Check the event calendar for family-friendly happenings. 

5. Seamen’s Bethel Offers a Quiet Place to Recharge 

The historic Seamen’s Bethel is a peaceful chapel made famous by Moby-Dick. It offers a calm, low-sensory break from busier attractions — perfect for decompressing. 

Tips for families: Stop in after visiting the Whaling Museum for a quiet reset. 

Check out our LEARN Behavioral blog on 5 simple play ideas for more sensory-friendly ideas. 

Looking for additional support for your child in southeastern Massachusetts? LEARN Behavioral offers contemporary applied behavior analysis therapy services across New England, including the New Bedford area. To find the most convenient location for your family, please visit our Massachusetts ABA Therapy page. There, you can explore our various centers and learn more about the services we provide. 

5 Sensory-Friendly Activities in Lawrence, MA for Kids on the Autism Spectrum 

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Finding activities that work for kids with autism isn’t always easy. Many children on the autism spectrum experience sensory sensitivities. This means certain sounds, lights, textures, or crowded spaces can feel overwhelming or even distressing. That’s where sensory-friendly activities come in. 

Massachusetts has always valued outdoor spaces and welcomes people with different sensory needs. New England’s trails and gardens offer spaces for comfort and inclusion. 

For families on the autism spectrum, “sensory-friendly” means even more. They’re looking for environments and activities that with quieter spaces, softer lighting, or more predictable settings. These thoughtful adjustments can help kids feel calmer and allow them to enjoy activities without stress. 

Sensory-friendly spaces can also provide relief for families. It’s a chance to find connection, knowing the environment supports your child’s needs.  

In Lawrence, the rural area roughly 30 miles north of Boston, there are a growing number of sensory-friendly activities your family can try. These include calm outdoor spaces and welcoming play areas. 

1. Explore Den Rock Park 

Den Rock Park is a 120-acre wooded nature preserve that’s good for kids who love quiet, outdoor spaces. The park has easy trails, open spaces, and lots of nature. The sounds of birds and rustling leaves can be calming. 

Bring binoculars for birdwatching or plan a family picnic in a peaceful spot. The slower pace and calm surroundings make it a relaxing option. 

Tip for Families: Weekdays or early mornings are not as crowded. Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes. 

2. Visit Nevins Memorial Library 

The children’s section at Nevins Memorial Library is a quiet and safe space for kids. There are books, puzzles, and craft activities your child can try.  

Tip for Families: Check with the librarians to see when sensory story times are scheduled. The library sometimes has events specifically for children with sensory issues. 

3. Learn and Play at Lawrence Heritage State Park 

If your family enjoys exploring history, check out Lawrence Heritage State Park. The Visitor Center has simple activities that kids can engage with at their own speed. It’s not overwhelming and has areas where kids can take breaks if needed. 

The park also has outdoor spots for a stroll or a quiet escape. It’s a mix of learning and breathing room, which can help keep kids comfortable and happy. 

Tip for Families: Call ahead to ask about hands-on activities or events that might interest your family. 

4. Try a Trampoline Park 

For kids who love to jump, the area offers several indoor trampoline parks — such as Altitude Trampoline Park, 10 miles away in Pelham, N.H. — that run sensory-friendly sessions at certain times. The lights are dimmed, and the noise is kept low. Your child can enjoy trampolines, climbing walls, and foam pits without feeling overwhelmed. 

The staff understands different sensory needs, and the rules make the experience feel safe and predictable. 

Tip for Families: Call the park to check when the next sensory-friendly session is. Comfortable clothes and water make the visit easier. 

5. Relax in a Cozy Cafe or Take Your Kids to a Play Space 

The Lawrence area also offers some cafes with play areas designed with kids in mind. Some even offer low-stimulation play areas or calming activities. One is STEMspot, in Lawrence, which combines the fun of a mini hands-on science museum with a cafe. Another is We Rock the Spectrum, in Westford, 16 miles from Lawrence, which has a gym, calming room, retail shop, snack room, lounge, and game room. 

Tip for Families: Check ahead to see what options each location offers to make sure it fits your child’s needs. 

Check out our LEARN Behavioral blog on 5 simple play ideas for more sensory-friendly ideas. 

Looking for additional support for your child in Lawrence, MA? At Behavioral Concepts (BCI), we use science and data to deliver contemporary applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy, tailored exclusively to your child’s unique needs, behavior, and personality. Learn more about our services in the Lawrence area and contact us today! 

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What’s Next After Early Intervention Services?

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What’s next after Early Intervention Services in Massachusetts? At BCI, you don’t have to experience a disruption in services after your child turns three. Learn more about how we bridge the gap for our early learners as they prepare for kindergarten by watching the video below.