Each March, Disability Awareness Month is recognized throughout Indiana. The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis continues to provide valuable experiences and an inclusive environment for people with disabilities who visit the museum.
This month, The Children’s Museum is offering special opportunities to raise awareness and recognize the contributions people with different abilities. These include:
First Thursday, March 4:
Admission is $6 for all visitors from 4-8 p.m. Enjoy the entire museum and learn more about organizations specializing in serving people with different disabilities; About Special Kids (ASK), Damar Service, Inc., Easterseals Crossroads, Hear Indiana, Governor’s Council for People with Disabilities
March 20 at 1 p.m.
Aesop’s Fables and Tails. This ASL interpreted live public performance of the latest tale of Aesop the Mouse (known by all other mice as the greatest storyteller in the land). Assistive listening devices are available in Lilly Theater.
March 27
Visitors have a chance to watch the Indy Thunder play beep baseball in the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience. Indy Thunder’s players have won the Beep Ball World Series three consecutive times.
March 27
Learn about and use all of the adaptive sports equipment available daily in the Riley Children’s Health Sports Legends Experience®. Equipment includes basketballs, soccer balls, and tennis balls with bells for children and families who are blind or who have low vision; brightly colored, soft material footballs, baseballs, and softballs with holes that are easier to grip; adaptive fitness pad equipment and more!
“The Children’s Museum is committed to ensuring all children and families have enjoyable and seamless visits. We are working diligently to be a welcoming, supportive and inclusive cultural institution for all. We know we are not where we want to be, but we are listening to the comments and recommendations of children and families with disabilities,” said Dr. Jeffrey H. Patchen, president and CEO, The Children’s Museum of Indianapolis.
The Children’s Museum has additional resources available year-round to assist visitors with disabilities. Sensory maps are available onsite and online. A social narrative and visual checklist also are available online. These tools can help families learn about what to expect at the Museum and plan their day. Fidget toys and noise-reducing headphones are available at the Concierge Desk. Gallery staff provide printed scripts for visitors who would like one to follow along and participate in a program. Don’t miss the Museum’s Carousel. It is accessible for visitors who use wheelchairs and other mobility devices.
