Few places in the world offer as many attractions, activities and sensory accommodations as Washington, D.C.
Here are some of Kathryn Hamlin-Pacheco’s (local occupational therapist and autism spectrum disorder clinical specialist) favorite places, sensory-friendly features and go-to tips to help families of all kinds enjoy the nation’s capital city.
National Mall
Known as “America’s Front Yard,” the National Mall features an expansive grassy area perfect for running, jumping, cartwheeling and generally getting the wiggles out. One of the best parts is that this open space connects many of D.C.’s iconic memorials and museums — making it easy to take movement breaks as you explore the country’s rich history and culture.
National Children’s Museum
The word “museum” feels like a misnomer for this attraction that is designed to encourage kids to touch, feel, tinker and play. It’s the perfect choice when you are tired of saying things like “Don’t touch that” or “Use your inside voice.” If you have a sensory seeker or craver that wants to do all the things all at once, let their enthusiasm run wild at the National Children’s Museum! On the other hand, if you have a child with sensory sensitivities, consider visiting during the museum’s sensory-friendly hours that feature reduced crowds, quiet spaces and access to sensory tools.
International Spy Museum
The International Spy Museum features a variety of ways to make “Mission Possible” for neurodiverse families. The museum hosts Access days that feature less noise, smaller crowds and quiet rooms several times per year. Can’t make it on the designated sensory days? No problem. The museum always offers a variety of tools such as a Sensory Sensitivities Map, visual schedule cards and sensory backpacks with sensory support gear.
Fairfax County Park Authority
The Fairfax County Park Authority (FCPA) is a nationally acclaimed and award-winning organization committed to making everyday fun more sensory-accessible. Families can make a splash during sensory-friendly swim times at FCPA’s pools and legendary water park, The Water Mine. While there, ask about the park’s award-winning adapted aquatics program. The FCPA also regularly hosts sensory-friendly events, many featuring a sensory tent stocked with calming tools and staffed by trained personnel. See an FCPA class or program your child is interested in but may need extra support to enjoy? Simply fill out their online form to request specific accommodations!
Sports
Washington, D.C. is home to numerous professional sports organizations — many of which have sensory accommodations. Audi Field, Nationals Park and Capital One Arena all feature dedicated sensory rooms to offer a calm retreat if the excitement and crowd become overwhelming. In addition, most teams offer sensory kits with items ranging from weighted lap pads, to noise-reducing headphones, to lanyards and badges. Let’s play ball!
A few tips that can be used anywhere:
Supporting Sensitive Children – Decrease intensity and maximize comfort by choosing quieter visiting hours and less crowded routes, bringing noise-reducing headphones, wearing soft clothing and packing favorite snacks and familiar comforts.
Tuning In to Fun – Point out details, ask meaningful questions and opt for hands-on, interactive activities to help capture a child’s attention and boost engagement.
Planning for Active Explorers – Begin the day with high-energy, movement-based activities before transitioning to quieter, less stimulating settings and incorporate movement breaks when exploring quieter, less stimulating environments.
Assisting With Coordination – Offer a helping hand when navigating unfamiliar obstacles or challenging tasks like stairs or escalators and pack a small “TLC kit” in case of minor bumps or scrapes.
Kathryn Hamlin-Pacheco is an occupational therapist, Certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist, author, international speaker and former educator. She founded the Brain Executive Program to equip children and their families with practical, neuroscience-based tools to become empowered, confident and self-directed in everyday life. Find online courses, animated social stories and more at BrainExecutiveProgram.com.
