We all struggle with finding ways to get our kids outside and moving in the summer. When kids have mental health issues or disabilities, it’s even harder to find fun activities for them that match their interests. I’ve gathered a list of some different kinds of activities in and around Hennepin County and also places you can contact to get even more information.
Three Rivers Parks District – Lots of different types of activities for families, from fishing and farming events to day camps for kids. Please contact 763.559.9000 if you have any questions about special needs accommodations.
Get Out, Get Active! Hennepin County and area cities have teamed up to offer a great brochure with listings of fun activities and recreation resources as well as a participation card, that gives you a chance to win a free pass to Three Rivers Parks District (a $150 value). The contest starts now, so check it out!
Hoofbeats and Heartbeats (763-441-2274) is an equestrian learning center dedicated to providing therapeutic riding and teaching proper horse care and management to individuals with emotional and physical disabilities, elderly and youth. Located in Otsego, MN
Mall of America – Nickelodeon Universe Parents of Kids with Special Needs children can stop by customer service within Nickelodeon Universe for your Park Handbook. A Manager will sign off on rides appropriate for your child and an adult can ride all the rides free of charge with the special kid as a chaperon. The book will also enable up to four people in the party to enter the rides from the exit so there is little to no wait time.
Pump It Up – Sensory Play Night – Come play on the giant, soft, fun-filled interactive inflatables 2nd Monday of each month from 6:00 to 7:30. During this evening event the area is reserved exclusively for special needs children and their families.
Sensory Friendly Films at AMC Theaters For families affected by autism and other disabilities, these are special opportunities to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment. The movie auditoriums will have their lights brought up and the sound turned down, families will be able to bring in their own gluten-free, casein-free snacks, and no previews or advertisements will be shown before the movie.
More Resources and Ideas:
Reach for Resources (952-988-4177) provides therapeutic recreational services to Brooklyn Park, Brooklyn Center, Maple Grove, Golden Valley, Plymouth, St. Louis Park, Hopkins, Minnetonka, Chaska and Chanhassen.
- YMCAs – summer and after school camps, lots of other activities
- YWCAs – summer and after school camps, lots of other activities
City Parks and Recreation Departments – Classes, camps, sports,
- Bloomington Parks – 952-563-8877 (ADA Info)
- Eden Prairie Parks and Recreation
- Edina Parks and Recreation Department – 952-826-0403 (ADA info)
- Minneapolis Parks and Rec – Inclusion and Adaptive Program: 612-313-7747
- Hopkins and Minnetonka Parks