April is Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month, and families across Long Island can take part in a growing number of sensory-friendly events designed for children with autism and other sensory sensitivities.
From nature scavenger hunts to art workshops and specially adapted movie screenings, these inclusive programs offer calming environments and hands-on learning in supportive, judgment-free spaces. Whether your child enjoys science, animals, or storytelling, there’s something meaningful to experience this spring.
Here are some sensory-friendly events for kids happening on Long Island during April 2025:
Natural Sensory Celebration Week at Planting Fields in Oyster Bay
Oyster Bay | April 14–18, 2025 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
This self-paced, inclusive program supports Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month with daily nature-based scavenger hunts designed for sensory-friendly exploration. Families are invited to explore gardens at their own pace in a calm setting.
Ages: All ages (children must be accompanied by an adult)
Tickets: Free admission (registration encouraged)
Location: Education Center at the Laundry Building, Planting Fields Arboretum, 1395 Planting Fields Rd, Oyster Bay, NY
Sensory-Friendly Programming at the Long Island Children’s Museum in Garden City
AdvoKids Program
Thursday, April 17, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Celebrate Autism Acceptance Month with the AdvoKids program this month! Learn about Temple Grandin, a leading advocate for individuals on the Autism Spectrum, and her impactful work. Then, create a rainbow infinity symbol, the new emblem for autism acceptance.
“AdvoKids” is a monthly series focusing on children learning what it means to be an advocate for themselves and others. Adults will learn how they can support their child’s self-advocacy efforts, which promote confidence, resilience and empathy.
This is a drop-in program, free with admission. Stop by between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to participate.
Elephant and Piggie’s “We Are in a Play!” — A Sensory Sensitive Theater Performance
Friday, April 25, 2025 | 6:15 – 7:15 PM
Back on stage! Enjoy a musical adventure, ripped from the pages of Mo Willems’ beloved award-winning, best-selling children’s books. Willems’ classic characters Elephant and Piggie storm the stage in a rollicking musical romp filled with plenty of pachydermal peril and swiney suspense perfect for young audiences. Carefully cautious Gerald and spirited playful Piggie share a day where anything is possible in an imaginative exploration of the meaning of friendship. Together with nutty backup singers, The Squirrelles, our comedic duo even gets the audience involved in the action. Come do the Elephant Dance and say “banana” with them!
Fee: $11 with museum admission ($9 Members), $15 Theater only
Adaptive Riding at HorseAbility
Old Westbury | Ongoing
This therapeutic riding program offers private and group lessons for children and adults of all abilities, including sensory-sensitive riders. The lessons promote confidence, focus, and connection with animals in a calm, structured environment.
Ages: 3 and up
Fees: View rates here
Location: 223 Store Hill Rd, Old Westbury, NY
Sensory Saturdays at Long Island Explorium in Port Jefferson
Saturday, April 26, 2025 | Time 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
Held on the last Saturday of each month, this program provides a low-stimulation environment for children to explore STEM concepts. Space is limited and registration is required.
Ages: Pre-K to Grade 5
Tickets: $25 per child (one adult allowed per child), $15 each additional child
Location: 101 E Broadway, Port Jefferson, NY