Autism Acceptance Month in Montco | Events + Ways to Get Involved

Flagship Premium Cinemas proudly offers sensory friendly showings for children and adults with autism or other sensory processing sensitivities. These showings are designed to be a more comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone and are screened the Second Sunday of each month at 1 pm. Sensory friendly showings include:

• House lights are dimmed, but not completely off, to a level that is comfortable for most guests.
• The sound is lowered to a level that is not overwhelming.
• Accommodations can be made if needed.
• Guests can talk and move freely around to express themselves while they enjoy the movie.

The Action Karate program offers activities for special needs adults in Pennsylvania. The karate classes are carefully and specially designed and have provided a productive outlet for adults with various special needs for their mental or physical health. Martial arts students – and black belts – include people who are in wheelchairs, using canes, non-verbal, have cerebral palsy, Down’s syndrome, anxiety disorders, asthma, autism, attention-related issues, Parkinson’s, Alzheimers, memory-related issues and more.

In 2018, Elmwood Park Zoo became the first zoo in the world to earn certification as a Certified Autism Center. The zoo offers early access mornings and quiet evenings, an accessibility map that includes quiet spaces, sensory backpacks upon request (fidget toys, noise cancelling headphones, etc.), a sensory guide, and more.

Relaxed Performances are specially adjusted to be sensory-friendly, comfortable for but not limited to individuals on the autism spectrum. To be inclusive of children and families with a wide range of sensory, learning, and communication differences, they designed the theater experience to be welcoming and judgment-free. Many children and adults benefit from experiencing theater in this relaxed environment.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Philadelphia has partnered with KultureCity® to enhance their ability to assist and accommodate guests with sensory needs. They have created a Digital Social Story that illustrates what to expect for sensory stimuli at their attraction. Access the Digital Social Story any time before or during your visit. You can also request KultureCity® sensory bags containing a special badge, feeling thermometer, fidget tools, and noise cancelling headphones.

Aspire Child & Family Services has been dedicated to supporting individuals and families through compassionate, evidence-based behavioral health services. By combining clinical expertise with genuine care, they help children and families build skills, foster resilience, and create lasting progress. Guided by a vision to lead the field in behavioral and mental health, they continue to transform lives through individualized ABA therapy, counseling, and diagnostic testing.