Tag: new york

Visiting the New York Hall of Science with Kids (A Sensory-Friendly, Low-Stress Family Outing in Queens)

On By justmymomsenseIn new york, TravelLeave a comment

My husband and I recently took our 11- and 9-year-old to the New York Hall of Science, in Queen, NY and I’m already looking forward to going back.

If you’re searching for any of the following, then I’m happy to share our family’s experience:

  • Things to do in Queens with kids
  • Sensory-friendly museums in NYC
  • Indoor activities for kids in New York
  • STEM activities for tweens

Why We Chose the Hall of Science

The Hall of Science has been on our “we should go there someday” list for a while. But recently, my kids have been on a serious science kick. We recently got the book ‘The Mysteries of the Universe’ during a trip to Barnes & Noble, we’ve been watching Mark Rober’s CrunchLabs on Netflix and my 9 year old used her money to buy a microscope.

Needless to say, it felt like the right time.

Library Passes

We got free passes through our local library. This is such a huge perk of having a library card. For anyone that does, check your local library, wherever you are located, to see what passes they have available.

Of course free is always nice but it can change the way you move about the museum as well. When you don’t feel like you’ve just spent a significant amount of money, you don’t feel pressure to: stay for hours just to “get your money’s worth,” see every single exhibit or push tired kids past their limit. We could move at our own pace and when the kids were done, we left without guilt or stress.

Is the New York Hall of Science Sensory-Friendly?

I love how many museums, theme parks and even movie theaters are offering sensory-friendly aspects to their experience. The Hall of Science was no different.

The museum provides information for sensory-sensitive visitors, including a Sensory Hour on Saturdays, a Sensory Sensitive backpack with tools that can help kids get through the museum easier and more! You can read all about the Hall of Science’s Sensory Sensitive offerings by visiting their website.

The space is hands-on, interactive, and allows kids to engage at their own comfort level. My kids gravitated toward the exhibits that let them experiment.

Practical Tips for Visiting the Hall of Science in Queens

  • Parking is $15 (free with many library passes)
  • There’s a café and gift shop (we skipped the café this time)
  • It’s a great indoor activity for winter in NYC
  • Check the website for sensory and neurodiverse programming before you go

We’ll absolutely return be back and can’t wait to see the exhibits we missed and get to play some mini golf when the weather is nicer!

LEGOLAND Sensory Guide

On By justmymomsenseIn TravelLeave a comment

<I have no affiliation with LEGOLAND, I am just sharing information>

Back in June, we did an overnight at LEGOLAND, NY. This was our second annual trip, but last year was just for the day.

If you’ve read this blog before, then you know I’ve talked about experiences at Disney. We’re a family that enjoys Theme Parks, but navigating them with someone that has sensory difficulties can be tricky. However, LEGOLAND is making that easier!

Stepping into the world of LEGO with lots of colors and creativity all around can be awesome but sometimes overwhelming. LEGOLAND has a Sensory Guide on their website, ensuring that every moment at LEGOLAND is magical and inclusive. From quiet spaces, to exciting attractions that cater to all, LEGOLAND lets you know what you’re going into at every stop.

Once you’re in the park, you’ll seen signs like these at each attraction:

Click here to read LEGOLAND, NY’s Sensory Guide.

I love that Theme Parks are becoming more inclusive so that everyone can feel welcome, be comfortable and have fun!