FAQs About Sensory-Friendly Activities for Children in New South Wales

Sensory-Friendly Activities for Your Son or Daughter



Many families struggle to find inclusive, engaging, and calm environments that work for children with sensory sensitivities. 


The right activities help your child feel safe, build confidence, and enjoy experiences that support their development.


Here are the answers to 12 common questions about sensory-friendly activities across NSW.

Question 1: What Are Sensory-Friendly Activities?


Sensory-friendly activities are designed to be calming, structured, and inclusive for children with sensory processing challenges. 


These activities reduce loud noises, bright lights, and overwhelming stimuli while offering engaging experiences.


Example:



Many museums, cinemas, and play centres in NSW now offer low-sensory sessions where lights are dimmed, sound is lowered, and crowds are minimised.

Question 2: Where Can I Find Sensory-Friendly Play Centres in NSW?



Several indoor play centres offer sensory-friendly sessions, including:


  • Inflatable World, which has quieter hours.
  • Nubo Play (Alexandria), a calm, structured space designed for creative play.
I need help finding a sensory-friendly activities for my child

Question 3: Are There Sensory-Friendly Cinemas in NSW?



Yes! Many cinemas across NSW offer sensory-friendly movie sessions, including:


  • Event Cinemas (Sensory Screenings – low light, lower sound, and freedom to move around).
  • Hoyts Sensory Friendly Films (specially designed for children who need a relaxed movie experience).
  • Reading Cinemas, which runs similar events in selected locations

Question 4: What Museums and Galleries Offer Sensory-Friendly Experiences?


Several museums and galleries provide low-sensory sessions, including:


  • Australian Museum (Sensory-Friendly Mornings with reduced noise and special quiet spaces).
  • Powerhouse Museum, which offers relaxed sessions and sensory maps.
  • Art Gallery of NSW, where quiet mornings allow families to explore without crowds.


Question 5: Are There Sensory-Friendly Outdoor Activities?



Absolutely! Many parks and nature reserves offer calm, nature-based experiences that help regulate sensory input:


  • Sydney Olympic Park has quiet picnic areas and shaded playgrounds.
  • The Australian Botanic Garden Mount Annan provides accessible walks with sensory-friendly spaces.
  • Taronga Zoo Sydney offers early entry days with lower crowds and quiet zones.

Question 6: What Water-Based Activities Are Sensory-Friendly?


Water activities can be incredibly calming. Some great sensory-friendly options include:


  • Hydrotherapy pools (heated pools with gentle water pressure).
  • Quiet swim sessions at local pools (many run dedicated low-noise sessions).
  • Beach wheelchairs at NSW beaches, making the ocean more accessible.


Question 7: Are There Sensory-Friendly Sports and Fitness Programs?



Yes! Many organisations offer adaptive sports programs for children with sensory sensitivities:


  • Little Kickers (modified soccer sessions for children with additional needs).
  • Gymnastics NSW runs inclusive gymnastics programs in various locations.
  • Special Olympics NSW offers non-competitive sports programs designed for children of all abilities.

Question 8: Are There Sensory-Friendly Shopping Times?


Many shopping centres now provide low-sensory shopping hours where lights are dimmed, music is off, and crowds are reduced. Locations include:


  • Westfield Shopping Centres (quiet shopping hours every Tuesday morning).
  • Coles and Woolworths, which run sensory-friendly shopping times.
  • IKEA, offering relaxed morning shopping experiences in some stores.


Question 9: What Theatres or Live Shows Cater to Sensory Needs?



Live performances can often be overwhelming, but some theatres in NSW offer relaxed performances:


  • Sydney Opera House, which runs sensory-friendly and relaxed performances for families.
  • Monkey Baa Theatre Company, known for its inclusive, interactive theatre experiences.
  • Riverside Theatre Parramatta, offering sensory-friendly shows for children.

Question 10: Are There Sensory-Friendly Holiday Programs?


Yes! Several organisations run inclusive school holiday programs designed for sensory-sensitive children:


  • Camp Breakaway (Central Coast) provides structured, calm activities.
  • Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect) runs holiday programs with small groups and predictable routines.
  • Local council programs, which increasingly offer quiet sessions during school breaks.


Question 11: How Can I Make Everyday Activities More Sensory-Friendly?



Sometimes, small adjustments can make regular outings more comfortable:


  • Visit places during quiet hours.
  • Use noise-cancelling headphones for overwhelming spaces.
  • Bring a comfort item (weighted blanket, fidget toy, or chewable necklace).
  • Prepare children with visual schedules so they know what to expect.

Question 12: How Can I Find More Sensory-Friendly Activities Near Me?


Many councils and organisations now list inclusive activities online. Great resources include:


  • Sensory Friendly Guide NSW (a directory of sensory-friendly places).
  • Local council websites, which list accessible events.
  • Facebook groups for sensory-friendly parenting, where families share recommendations.


Want More Sensory-Friendly Ideas?



Have a question we didn’t answer? Let Giuliana know—she’d love to help families find the best sensory-friendly experiences for their children.

Get in touch with Giuliana