DELAWARE — Families looking for places where people of all abilities can play and connect have more options than ever in Delaware County.
From inclusive horseback riding to thoughtfully designed outdoor playgrounds, these sensory-friendly spaces aim to remove barriers and create welcoming experiences for those with developmental, physical and sensory differences — while benefitting all who visit.
We Rock the Spectrum: Inclusive indoor play area
We Rock the Spectrum, located at 1250 East Powell Road, was created with inclusion at its core.
Founded by Sharron and John Jakmides, the concept was inspired by their own experiences as parents. According to the website, after having children they grew passionate about creating safe, inclusive spaces where children could play freely, burn energy and build connections — regardless of ability.
The inclusive gym features a wide range of equipment designed to support children with all types of needs, including:
- Suspended swings
- Crash mats and pillows
- Zip slider
- Trampoline
- Indoor play structure
- Sensory-friendly toys and equipment
- Arts and crafts area
- Fine-motor area
- Dedicated calming room
We Rock the Spectrum also offers a private room for birthday parties, private events and classes, along with a retail shop and healthy snack and beverage options.
Columbus Blue Jackets themed playground: Inclusive outdoor play area
As warmer weather arrives, families can also take advantage of the Columbus Blue Jackets-themed inclusive playground, located at 5202 U.S. 23.
According to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources page, the playground was made possible through a collaboration:
- The Ohio State Parks Foundation
- Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation
- Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities
- Perry’s Ice Cream
- CSX
- Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities
Designed with accessibility and inclusion in mind, the playground incorporates sensory-friendly play structures, inclusive swings and a climbable model of the Blue Jackets’ mascot, Stinger.
The project also included several ADA-compliant improvements, such as accessible restrooms and new sidewalks surrounding the playground.
The Strand Theater
First opened in 1916, The Strand Theater located at 28 East Winter Street, hosts multiple sensory-friendly movie showings for those who may prefer the movie at a lower volume and lights not dimmed as much, allowing for a much more inviting and calming atmosphere.
Its website notes singing, dancing, movement and any form of creative expression are welcome.
The sensory-friendly showings are every fourth Saturday of the month. One free small popcorn and free canned beverage are provided by the Autism Society of Central Ohio — limited to the first 25 patrons.
Online ticket sales are not available and must be purchased at the box office, which opens 30 minutes prior to the first showtime.
Stockhands Horses for Healing
Founded in 2014, Stockhands Horses for Healing believes horses have the power to heal. They are located at 3788 Olentangy River Road.
Therapeutic equine-assisted riding lessons are just one of the many programs they offer.
The lessons run Monday through Friday with around 100 lessons per week, ages ranging from four-year-olds to older citizens.
According to the website, lesson content is based on the participants abilities. These include a variety of skills:
- Riding
- Grooming
- Horsemanship
- Driving
- Variety of both on-and-off horse activities and games
The Stockhands Horses for Healing website states their classes include adaptive therapeutic lessons for those with autism spectrum disorder, behavior challenges, physical and developmental disabilities, ADHD and anxiety.
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