Accessible, inclusive fun the whole family can enjoy
Summer is here—and with it comes longer days, warmer weather, and tons of opportunities for families to get outside, connect, and make unforgettable memories.
At Specially Gifted Foundation, we know how important it is to find events that are not just fun, but also designed to accommodate and celebrate children of all abilities. From sensory-friendly museum mornings to inclusive summer camps and puppet performances, we’ve gathered a list of ongoing and upcoming summer events across Georgia that make accessibility a priority.
Here’s what’s happening this season:
Sensory-Friendly Playtime – Children’s Museum of Atlanta
Dates: May 19, June 1, July 7, August 4 | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
📍Atlanta, GA
Enjoy a low-sensory morning at the museum, where lights and sounds are adjusted, capacity is limited, and staff are trained to support neurodivergent children. A great way to start your summer gently!
Tellus Science Museum Sensory-Friendly Mornings
Dates: May 25, June 22, July 27 | 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
📍Cartersville, GA
Experience the museum in a quieter, more accommodating environment during these special mornings designed for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Attendance is limited to 200 guests, creating a relaxed, crowd-free setting before the museum opens to the general public.
Accommodations include:
Reduced sensory stimulation throughout the building
Free planetarium shows with doors open and volume lowered
Sound-reduction measures like disabled hand dryers and postponed loud tasks
Designated Quiet Spaces for breaks when needed
Supportive equipment available:
Weighted lap pads
Noise-reducing earmuffs
Sunglasses for light sensitivity
Wheelchairs
Waterproof aprons and gloves for the gem panning and fossil dig areas
Families also receive name tags for children (optional) and benefit from stroller accessibility and enhanced signage to navigate easily. These mornings offer a supportive way to explore the museum’s exhibits, dig pits, and planetarium in a more sensory-conscious environment.
🎟️ Free for members; standard admission for non-members. Space is limited—registration is highly recommended.
📞 For more information, call 770-606-5700.
Southern Museum Sensory-Friendly Afternoons
Dates: May 28, June 25, July 30 | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
📍Kennesaw, GA
Held the last Tuesday of each month, these afternoons offer adjusted lighting and sound, quiet areas, and themed programming like story time and hands-on train experiences. A great low-key outing for kids of all ages.
Georgia Aquarium – Sensory Friendly Sundays
Ongoing: First Sunday of Each Month | 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
📍Atlanta, GA
Explore the aquarium before it opens to the public with lower lighting, reduced sound, and fewer people. The perfect calming way to experience marine life for children with sensory sensitivities.
Center for Puppetry Arts – Sensory-Friendly “Charlotte’s Web”
June 15, 2025 | 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM
📍Atlanta, GA
This summer’s sensory-friendly performance brings E.B. White’s “Charlotte’s Web” to life in a modified environment perfect for children with sensory needs. ASL-interpreted performances are also available this season.
Fernbank Museum – Sensory-Friendly Mornings
June 22, July 20, August 17 | 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
📍Atlanta, GA
Enjoy quieter exhibits, adjusted lighting, and a relaxed pace at one of Atlanta’s most beloved museums. These special mornings create a welcoming space for all families.
ESP Summer Camp – Extra Special People
June – August 2025
📍Watkinsville & Rome, GA
With adaptive day and overnight camp options, ESP creates a magical summer experience for children with disabilities. Campers participate in outdoor fun, arts, games, and friendships—all supported by trained staff and volunteers.
Southside Support Inclusive Summer Camp
June 23-26th, Mon-Thurs 9:30am-12:30pm
📍South Metro Atlanta
This inclusive day camp offers a week of themed fun—think art, music, science, cooking, and recreational games—designed specifically for children with physical and developmental disabilities. Campers are grouped by age and supported by experienced paraprofessionals and special education teachers.
Highlights include:
Structured activities with transitions every 30 minutes
Nurses on-site for medical needs including G-tube feedings and toileting support
1:3 staff-to-camper ratio for a safe and engaging environment
Siblings age 13+ can volunteer!
Please note: This camp is best suited for children who can participate in group settings and follow instructions with minimal redirection. Transportation is not provided. Snacks are nut-free and shared ahead of time so families can prepare for any dietary needs.
📧 Questions? Contact: Director@southsidesupport.org
Camp Dream – Overnight Camps for Kids with Disabilities
Sessions Available in June & July
📍Warm Springs, GA
A classic summer camp experience with 1:1 camper-to-counselor support. Swimming, canoeing, arts & crafts, and more—all made fully accessible for children with moderate to severe disabilities.
AMC Sensory-Friendly Movie Mornings
Ongoing: Monthly Nationwide | Check local listings
📍Multiple Georgia locations
Current films shown with lights up and sound down for kids to enjoy in a comfortable, judgment-free environment. Great for indoor summer days!
Looking for a fun way to support our mission while staying cool this summer? Check out our Shop Specially Gifted apparel line! Every purchase helps fund gifts and resources for families caring for children with disabilities.
👕 Hats, tees, tumblers & more: Shop Now »
Wear your heart on your sleeve—literally!
Know of an Inclusive Event?
We’d love to hear about it! Email us at hello@speciallygifted.org with the details and we may include it in our future blog posts or newsletters.
