This world is not designed for people who don’t fit into the social norm. It can feel extremely isolating most of the time, especially if your child has special needs. When you have a kid with a disability, every aspect of daily living brings on its own set of challenges. Tasks that come easily to most can be extremely hard to others. Running errands, getting a haircut, going out to eat, or to a place for a little family fun. All of these activities require planning, research, and time. Finding an inclusive and autistic safe place where you feel like your family fits in can be a tough mission to accomplish… but not an impossible one.
Over the years, my husband and I have been on the hunt for places we can take our son for some fun and personal hygiene maintenance. He’s autistic, so a lot of the spots most people take their kids to just aren’t suited for him. We’ve tried taking him to those popular locations to try them. Unfortunately, most of them are either too loud, too busy, not safe, or just not equipped for his needs. Determined to find a few places we could go where we felt comfortable and welcome, we never gave up our search. Thankfully, we found some businesses that could not only accommodate us but also go out of their way to help.
Below are three inclusive and autistic safe places in Central Mass that are safe for kids on the spectrum:
Axe To Grind
Getting a haircut when you have a child with sensory issues can be an extremely challenging task. Enter Axe To Grind. A barber shop that is making it their personal mission to change the world one haircut at a time. Located on Shrewsbury Street in downtown Worcester, this incredibly inclusive establishment offers a special service for anyone with autism or a processing disorder. Not only do these people have hearts of gold for offering such a basic need to the community, but they also acquire the patience and understanding that is required of them.
I had the privilege of working with Phil. This man went above and beyond for my little guy. He followed my son around the salon since he wouldn’t sit in the chair. He got on the floor with him when he flopped, took the time to show him the clippers’ sounds and vibrations, and just followed my son’s lead. By the time it was over, he looked like an entirely new kid with the cleanest cut he’s ever received. I was in tears, having gotten peace of mind that he can now, finally, get his hair styled.
We Rock the Spectrum
If you have taken your autistic kid to an indoor play park, then you know how easily they can be sent into a major meltdown due to sensory overload. How loud and big they are. How barbaric the kids can be. At We Rock The Spectrum, they specialize in having fun while taking all things autism into consideration. Not only do they have multiple pieces of equipment specifically designed to help let all the pent-up energy out, but they also have several sections dedicated to all the stages of life. For example, an infant section along with a teen room filled with games and activities.
Located in Westford, this hidden gem also offers classes, private facility rentals, and we rock care on top of their open play. I myself have hosted 2 of my son’s birthday parties here, and they have been incredible. The girls went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed and that my son felt special and understood. Finally, a place where you don’t have to say I’m sorry!
Worcester Railers
Having a fun night out as a family is not an easy thing to do when your kiddo is on the spectrum. The Worcester Railers are fully aware of this. Hockey games, while fun, are loud. So, they decided to do something about it for those who love the sport, just not all the noise. Sensory-friendly nights are available throughout the season with some major adjustments made for those who struggle.
They also have an Autism Acceptance Night when they shine a light on the community while also making the following accommodations.
- No goal horn when a team scores.
- No sudden “make some noise” videos trying to hype up the crowd.
- Lights are always on.
- Lights are never flashing.
- Lower the volume on the mics so they aren’t as loud.
- No drum for the mascot.
- Cool down zone. A sensory safe place to step away from it all to catch your breath while not having to leave the game entirely.
My family has now gone to 3 of these nights and loved every second. We are counting down the days until we can go to another one.
I’d love to learn of some new inclusive and autistic safe places to check here in Central Mass. Please let us know in the comments of any other inclusive establishments in the area to try.
