International Family Day (May 15) serves as a beautiful reminder of the importance of family bonds, the celebration of diversity, and the promotion of inclusivity within our homes. As we celebrate this day, it's important to acknowledge that families come in all forms, sizes, and include a range of neurodiversities. For families with neurodivergent children, identifying activities tailored to their unique needs and preferences can greatly strengthen family connections. In this blog post, we'll delve into some activities that families can participate in together, promoting understanding, joy, and love.

Many neurodivergent children thrive in environments that are accommodating to their sensory needs. Consider planning outings to sensory-friendly places such as parks with quiet areas, museums with sensory-friendly hours, or nature reserves where children can explore at their own pace. These outings provide opportunities for children to engage with their surroundings comfortably while enjoying quality time with their family.

Sensory Friendly Sundays at Early Works Museum - May 19

Space Monkeys: The Adventures of Baker & Able - May 9 -12 | Sensory Friendly Performance May 11 at 10:00 am

When the summer heat is too much to bear, indoor activities can save the day. Engaging in arts and crafts, building puzzles, or creating a home-based sensory play area can be fun and therapeutic for neurodivergent children. You can also plan a movie night with films that cater to your child's interests, followed by a discussion about the film. This can help in improving communication skills and fostering a deeper family connection.

At-Home: Energy Activities for Kids

Color Me Mine: Toddler Tuesdays (Half-Off Studio Fee for 5 & Under) - Every Tuesday for Month of May

Spirted Art: Adult/Child Paint Together - May 11 at 2:00 pm

Comic Science Improv Show - May 31 at 7:00 pm

Spending time in nature offers a multitude of benefits for individuals of all ages and abilities. Plan family hikes, nature walks, or picnics in serene outdoor settings where children can explore and connect with the natural world. Nature provides a calming environment that can help regulate sensory inputs while encouraging curiosity and exploration. Don't forget to bring along some snacks and activities to enhance the experience!

At-Home: Outdoor Activities for Kids

Butterfly Releases at Huntsville Botanical Gardens - Beginning May 11th

Guided Hikes at Blevins Gap North - May 18 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Guided Hikes at Harvest Square - May 25 9:00 am - 10:00 am

Music and dance have a universal language that breaks barriers, making them ideal activities for families with neurodivergent children. Create playlists with a variety of musical genres and encourage spontaneous dance parties where everyone can move and groove to the rhythm. Experiment with different musical instruments or make homemade shakers and drums for an interactive musical experience that stimulates the senses and fosters joy.

At-Home: DIY Water Xylophone

At-Home: Music Games for Kids

Camp to Amp Music Festival - May 11th 12:00pm

Summer Skate Jam - May 25th 5:00pm-8:00pm

Celebrating International Family Day is about embracing the unique qualities and strengths of each family member, regardless of neurodiversity. By engaging in activities together, families can create meaningful connections, build resilience, and cultivate a sense of belonging for all. Whether it's exploring nature, getting creative with art, or simply dancing to the beat of their own drum, every moment spent together strengthens the bonds that hold families together, making every day a celebration of love and acceptance.