Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation to Offer Sensory-Friendly Activities this Summer

Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) will offer a variety of sensory-friendly programs this summer. These programs are modified for individuals who have sensory needs. This includes lowering the volume, lighting and removing other distractions.

“We believe that everyone should be able to enjoy the Monon Community Center and sometimes modifications need to be made,” said Michelle Yadon, Monon Community Center Inclusion Supervisor. “We’re happy to provide those modifications to help individuals and families enjoy activities and programs that they normally may not be able to.”

CCPR offers a variety of sensory-friendly programs for children, teens and adults including Adaptive Open Swim and Sensory Storytime.

Adaptive Open Swim evenings are designed for families who cannot enjoy The Waterpark during regular hours because of specific distractions. The music is turned off, the concession stand is closed and families are able to focus on enjoying the most popular features in The Waterpark without distractions. Adaptive Open Swims are scheduled this summer on June 13, July 11 and August 8 from 7:30-8:45 p.m. Adaptive Open Swims are $15 per family and are open to individuals of all ages. Preregistration is required.

Sensory Storytime is a new program for children ages 2 – 5. Presented by the Carmel Clay Public Library, this program combines books, low-key songs, gentle movements and fun activities to stimulate all five senses. Parents are asked to accompany their children during this program. Sensory Storytime will take place each Monday between May 8-22 from 5-5:30 p.m.

For more information about sensory-friendly program offerings at CCPR, please contact Michelle Yadon at [email protected].

About Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation

Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) holds the Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management by the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration (AAPRA) in partnership with the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) for parks serving populations of 75,001 to 150,000. As an accredited agency, the department serves the recreation, fitness, and nature needs of the community, manages and develops existing spaces and resources and creates a sustainable future for parks and recreation programs through a financially viable and environmentally conscious parks system. CCPR manages and maintains more than 500 park acres and numerous recreation facilities, including the Monon Community Center and The Waterpark. In addition, CCPR has partnered with Carmel Clay Schools to establish Extended School Enrichment (ESE), a before and after-school care program for K-6 students located at all eleven Carmel elementary schools. The Summer Camp Series is a component of ESE that offers 12 different summer camps accommodating children ages 5-15. For more information, visit carmelclayparks.com.