December 19, 2025 By CDHD Five sensory-friendly activities for winter break Finding fun when it’s cold outside can be a challenge. Especially since many indoor activities bring large, noisy crowds during the winter months. All is not lost; however, as many places across Idaho are embracing sensory-friendly activities. This offers children with disabilities the opportunity to get out and about without overstimulation this winter break. Discovery Center of Idaho: sensory-friendly hours Did you know the Discover Center of Idaho in Boise offers sensory-friendly learning days each month? These specified dates provide sensory kits at the front desk complete with noise cancelling headphones, sunglasses and fidget toys to support youngsters with sensory sensitivities. The museum also provides sensory maps that help parents and kids identify sensory input in different areas of the museum. It shows varying types of stimuli and uses color coding to show the level of stimulation visitors can expect. Idaho Public Libraries: sensory-friendly storytime Public libraries are a great place find cozy fun throughout the winter. Not only do they offer plenty of books for young readers, but they also provide a calendar of activities that cater to kids of all ages. Even better, many of them – including Lewiston and Meridian – provide sensory storytimes and/or sensory play. These adaptive programs provide a welcoming and supportive environment for preschool-aged children to explore different developmental skills through activities, stories, songs and dance. Search Idaho’s list of libraries to find sensory programs near you. Cinemas: sensory-friendly movies Many major cinemas provide sensory-friendly movie times for those who find the typical theater experience to be overwhelming. These adaptive matinees provide lower sound, dimmed lights (not dark), no ads or trailers, and the freedom to talk, move or make noise without judgement. AMC and Regal provide sensory-friendly screenings – check your local listings for dates and times. Smaller, local theaters may as well. For example, Moscow’s Kenworthy Theater often hosts Sensory Friendly Sundays. Be sure to check their calendar of events for upcoming showings. Museum of Idaho: sensory-friendly accommodations Located in Idaho Falls, the Museum of Idaho offers visitors of all ages the chance to explore a range of temporary exhibits from all corners of the globe. Visitors can also expect permanent fixtures such as the Marie Putman Discovery Room complete with mountains and caves for children to explore. In addition to their engaging, interactive displays, the Museum offers accommodations for those with sensory sensitivities. This includes quiet areas, a sensory map showing areas that may include noise or light changes, experience planning guide, and backpacks with items to help sensory-sensitive guests get the most out of their visit. These packs can contain stress relief items, fidget items, noise-cancelling headphones, sunglasses and/or activities to help guests experience exhibits their way. Adaptive activity centers Inclusive spaces where children can play their own way are popping up across Idaho. For example, Sensory Getaway in Idaho Falls provides a welcoming space for all children to play. This facility offers six themed rooms that encourage different types of play such as the Music Room or the Calm Down Room. Boise’s Sensory Playce also provides different rooms for children to interact and play. This includes a multi-purpose/open gym with specialized swings, climbing structures, trampolines, ziplines and a crash pit. There is also a Quite Room for children who are feeling overstimulated, complete with noise reduction, calm lighting and weighted blankets. If you don’t have a dedicated activity center in your area, check out programs like the Special Olympics, Boys and Girls Club of America, or 4-H. All offer regional chapters and provide opportunities for children with disabilities to explore more physical activities in an inclusive and supportive environment. Availability may differ depending on your location.