By Christine MacIntyre
Raising a child with special needs comes with unique challenges, but it also brings moments of incredible growth, resilience, and joy. The proper support and strategies can make all the difference—whether it's navigating therapies, advocating at school, or creating a home environment where a child feels empowered. From practical tips to expert insights, community groups and carefully curated summer camps and classes, special needs children and their families will not just get by but will truly thrive. Every child deserves the chance to shine, and every family deserves the tools to help them do it.
Arbor Autism Center
Arbor Autism Center is a place where children with autism build confidence, develop essential skills, and experience meaningful growth through hands-on engaging therapy. In social skills groups, kids learn concepts such as sharing, making eye contact, and following social skills through collaborative building, art, cooking, vocational skills, video and/or board gaming, and storytelling. In the pool, Arbor Swims provides a structured, sensory-friendly approach to water safety, helping children feel comfortable and secure while learning essential swimming skills under the guidance of a certified therapist. For those with feeding challenges, Arbor Eats introduces new foods through gradual exposure, reducing anxiety around mealtimes and fostering independence. Speech and language therapy supports children in developing clear communication, whether through articulation, fluency, or expressive language. Each program is designed to help children apply these skills beyond the therapy room, creating a foundation for success in everyday life. At Arbor, every step forward is a step toward greater independence, confidence, and joy.
Arbor Autism Center is located at 850 South Hewitt Road, Ypsilanti. For more information, please call (734) 544-5561 or visit arborautismcenters.com.
The Work and Play Special Needs Resource Center
The Work and Play Special Needs Resource Center is a vibrant hub where individuals with disabilities and their families find support, connection, and opportunities to thrive. The Center creates a truly inclusive space through movement programs, advocacy, and educational resources.
DanceABILITIES and CheerABILITIES bring the joy of performance to participants of all abilities.DanceABILITIES, led by University of Michigan senior Megan Loren, focuses on creative movement and self-expression. The Center's founder, Misty Kluck, said Loren uses visual cues, repetition, and adaptive techniques enabling inclusion for all abilities in a fun, supportive environment.
CheerABILITIES, a co-ed team for ages 8—99, builds confidence through teamwork, stretching, stunting (adapted as needed), and choreographed routines. Athletes learn at their own pace while being encouraged to step outside their comfort zone and challenge themselves. "They recently had their first public performance at the DD Hero Walk and loved every moment of being in front of a cheering crowd!" said Kluck.
The Work and Play Center also offers educational workshops and IEP Office Hours providing families with expert-led guidance on Special Needs Trusts, Guardianship, Medicaid, SSI, housing, and school advocacy. Workshops rotate based on community needs, always empowering families with knowledge.
From sensory-friendly movie nights to inclusive social events, The Center is dedicated to creating a welcoming space where everyone is valued and celebrated.
Work and Play Special Needs Resource Center, Inc. is located at 444 North Hewitt Road, Ypsilanti. For more information, please call (734) 780-6795 or visit workandplaycenter.org.
Exceptional Journeys Community Center
At Exceptional Journeys Community Center, no one walks the path alone. As a newly approved day program contracted with Washtenaw County Community Mental Health, Exceptional Journeys is designed to support individuals of all ages and abilities through programming and ensuring families can access the necessary resources. "If there's a service we don't offer, I'll do my best to guide families to the right resources in the area," said Founder Zee Kennedy.
The program offers hands-on experiences like cooking classes, social skills development, and skill-building sessions, all tailored to help participants grow in confidence and independence and build lasting friendships. Beyond these activities, Exceptional Journeys is about creating a strong support system. "We want families to know they are not alone," Kennedy emphasized. By spreading awareness and connecting families with the right tools, Exceptional Journeys is helping to build a more inclusive and supportive community, one step at a time.
Exceptional Journeys Community Center is located at 3060 Packard Street # B in Ann Arbor. For more information, please call (734) 216-3375 or visit exceptionaljourneys.org.
Therapeutic Riding, Inc.
Therapeutic Riding, Inc. (TRI) is an adaptive equestrian center where people with various disabilities learn how to care for and ride horses. It's a place where they can feel strong, independent, and, more importantly, have fun. "Our participants list a number of reasons why they love working with horses—exercise, socialization, relaxation—but most of all, you'll hear them say that riding is just pure fun!" said Program Direct Jennifer Beyer. With gentle, well-trained horses, patient instructors, and a team of dedicated volunteers, TRI helps kids build a real sense of freedom in the saddle. Beyer said participants set goals, improve balance, gain confidence, develop independence, and more. Whether they're riding for recreation or sport, the experience is empowering, exciting, and unique.
For more information, call (734) 677-0303 or visit therapeuticridinginc.org. Therapeutic Riding, Inc. is located at 3425 East Morgan Road, Ann Arbor.
JUMP-IN Therapy & Wellness Center
Jump-IN is a lifelong resource for individuals of all ages, from birth through adulthood. Specializing in a wide range of conditions, including sensory processing and regulation disorders, ADD, trauma, and motor skill delays, Jump-IN provides personalized care to help individuals thrive. Owner Jackie Kilburn added that they also provide physical restoration for “things that stick and squeak,” such as muscles or joints.
“We service birth through aging,” said Kilburn. “We treat the mother-baby dyad from conception through birth and postpartum addressing feeding issues and releasing tension.” Uterine misalignment is treated externally, craniosacral therapy is used to aid recovery from abdominal surgeries, hysterectomies, and adhesions, and functional microcurrent to treat musculoskeletal injury and pain.
One of Jump-IN’s programs is a two-week, half-day intensive therapy camp where parents actively participate to learn techniques they can implement at home. “Camp is fun, and clients typically make huge gains in this short and intensive program,” Kilburn shared.
In addition to in-person therapy, Jump-IN supports families with home programs for children and adults, allowing progress to continue outside the clinic. Kilburn has also patented a soft handle for the Wilbarger Deep Touch Pressure Program, a tool that assists with sensory regulation, which is available for purchase through the clinic.
Jump-IN is a trusted partner for special needs families, providing hands-on therapy, home-based solutions, and innovative tools to help individuals of all ages build strength, independence, and confidence.
Please call (810) 231-9042 or visit facebook.com/jumpintherapy/ for more information. JUMP-IN Therapy & Wellness Center is located at 10400 Hamburg Road, Hamburg.
Ann Arbor Rec & Ed
Inclusion is a commitment that Ann Arbor Rec & Ed focuses on. Regardless of ability, every child deserves the chance to play, learn, and be part of a community. Ann Arbor Rec & Ed works closely with families to provide accommodations that ensure all kids can fully participate in youth classes, sports leagues, summer camps, and aftercare programs.
Alongside inclusive offerings, Rec & Ed also provides adapted programs designed specifically for individuals with disabilities. "Our team will make every effort to ensure that all qualifying participants receive the assistance they need to fully participate in activities to the best of their ability," said Engagement Coordinator Elyse Bairley.
One of the most beloved programs is Strike Force Bowling, a non-competitive league running strong for over 30 years. Open to participants from ninth grade through adulthood, it offers a relaxed, supportive environment where everyone can bowl at their own pace. Family members and aides are welcome, while staff and volunteers provide extra support as needed. Each season wraps up with a pizza party and awards for all—because at Rec & Ed, showing up and having fun is the biggest win.
For families looking for inclusive recreational opportunities, Rec & Ed encourages contacting Elyse Bairley, Engagement Coordinator (bairley@a2schools.org), to discuss accommodations, upcoming programs, or even ways to get involved as a volunteer. More details can also be found at aarecedonline.com.For more information, please call (734) 994-2300 or visita2schools.org/reced. Ann Arbor Rec & Ed is located at 1515 South Seventh Street in Ann Arbor.
We Rock The Spectrum Kid's Gym
For many children with autism and sensory processing disorders, the world can feel overwhelming—too loud, too bright, and too unpredictable. Traditional playgrounds or play centers may not be designed with their needs in mind, making it difficult for them to engage safely and comfortably. That's exactly why We Rock the Spectrum Gym exists—to provide a space where all children, regardless of ability, can move, play, and be themselves.
Robin Hall, owner of We Rock the Spectrum in Ann Arbor and a mother of a child with special needs, understands firsthand the importance of a judgment-free play space. As a busy working mom in the corporate world, she once took her child to a play center while catching up on work nearby. But instead of enjoying himself, her son was repeatedly scolded for the way he played. "While the way he was playing was perhaps a little disruptive, he wasn't hurting anyone. Me explaining that he's on the spectrum didn't matter," she recalled.
Frustrated and stressed, she searched for a play space to accommodate his needs. When she couldn't find one, she opened Michigan's first We Rock the Spectrum location, ensuring that kids of all abilities would have a place to play freely, safely, and without judgment.
We Rock the Spectrum offers open, inclusive play areas equipped with therapy swings, zip sliders, a roller slide, and specialized activities designed to support movement and sensory regulation. They also have a rock climbing wall, monkey bars, and several other components that inspire movement. A calming space is also available for kids who need a break, with noise-canceling headphones and self-regulation tools to help them reset.
Hall encourages parents to let their children play in ways that feel right to them, even if it doesn't look like typical play. "As long as they're happy, safe, and not hurting anyone, I don't see a problem with it," she said. While showing children the intended uses for certain toys or playthings may be helpful, let them be creative and play how they need to experience the world. She also urges parents to observe how their child naturally reacts to stress. "Meltdowns are fight-or-flight responses. Understanding how your child processes stress can help you communicate with them more effectively." When given the right environment, all kids—neurodivergent and neurotypical alike—can thrive.
For more information, please call (734) 623-9422 or visit their website, werockthespectrumannarbor.com. We Rock the Spectrum's Ann Arbor kid's gym is located at 4370 Varsity Drive, Suite A.
Creating Brighter Futures
For families navigating the challenges of autism and developmental delays, Creating Brighter Futures transcends the typical therapy center; it's a place of understanding, growth, and empowerment.
"Our goal is not to change or 'fix' the kids that come to our program," said Jessica Irish, a board-certified behavior analyst, licensed behavior specialist, and Creating Brighter Futures Co-Owner and Clinical Director. "We meet them where they are and provide support to improve their quality of life."
At its core, Creating Brighter Futures offers one-on-one Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, a science-based approach that helps individuals develop positive behaviors and life skills. They also offer summer social skills groups, yet what truly sets it apart is its family-centered approach. Irish stressed the importance of looking at whole family units rather than focusing only on the child. Parents and caregivers are instrumental in creating meaningful, individualized goals—helping a child communicate, dress independently, try new foods, or confidently engage in school and community activities.
Because traditional learning methods don't always work, Irish said it often takes creativity and tailoring strategies to each child's needs. At Creating Brighter Futures, weekly family meetings ensure caregivers are equipped with effective techniques, fostering progress beyond therapy sessions.
"In the end, our goal is to work ourselves out of a job," Irish shared. "We want the kids and their families to have the tools to tackle any obstacle."
For more information, please call (734) 926-0740 or visit creatingbrighterfutures.com. Creating Brighter Futures is located at 4201 Varsity Drive, Ann Arbor.
Go Like the Wind Montessori
Go Like the Wind is an authentic Montessori school serving infants through middle school children. The Montessori method is a child-centered educational approach that values the human spirit and the whole child's physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development. Their school can accommodate many different learning styles with a low student-to-teacher ratio, self-paced curriculum, and individualized work plans. Students learn by doing many hands-on activities and are free to move about (an advantage to those who require a high level of physical activity). Students can learn at their own pace without pressure to meet formal standards by a predetermined time. The school also has access to public school therapy services.
For more information, please call (734) 747-7422 or visit montessori.wlps.net. Go Like the Wind Montessori is located at 8845 Main Street in Whitmore Lake.
Brain Injury Association of Michigan
Caring for a child with special needs comes with unique challenges—one of which may be navigating the complexities of a brain injury. The Brain Injury Association of Michigan (BIAMI) ensures that no one has to face those challenges alone.
"A brain injury can change a life in an instant," said Jenna Anheuser, BIAMI's program coordinator. But, she reiterated, with the right resources and support, families can confidently navigate the road ahead.
Through its Information & Referral Line, BIAMI helps families connect with specialized medical care, rehabilitation services, and support groups. Whether finding the right school accommodations or accessing essential therapies, the organization provides guidance tailored to each family's needs.
Education is a major focus. Anheuser emphasized the importance of individuals, families, and professionals accessing the latest information. BIAMI offers workshops and programs to help parents, educators, and medical professionals better understand brain injuries, their impact, and best practices for recovery. The organization also advocates for policies that ensure children with brain injuries receive the care and services they deserve.
Prevention plays a key role in BIAMI's work, particularly through the Lids for Kids program, which provides children with free, properly fitted bike helmets. The organization also works to increase concussion awareness recently partnering with the University of Michigan and other institutions on grants to improve concussion education and prevention.
For families seeking answers, resources, or simply a community that understands, BIAMI is a lifeline. Anheuser said they are committed to making lasting impacts on families who are navigating the complex challenges that may come with brain injury.
For more information, please call (810) 229-5880 or visit biami.org. The Brain Injury Association of Michigan is located at 7305 Grand River, Suite 100, Brighton.
Camp SkyWild
At Camp SkyWild, summer camp isn't about making kids fit the world—it's about making the world fit them. Designed specifically for neurodivergent kids, adults, and their families, Camp SkyWild offers an experience where every camper is celebrated for exactly who they are. Too often, families with neurodivergent kids are left out of traditional programming. However, Executive Director Erin Ross said their mission is to change that by providing special needs families access to the programming available to their peers.
What sets Camp SkyWild apart? It starts with exceptional camper-to-staff ratios, ensuring personalized attention and support. Every counselor undergoes intensive training in neurodiversity, inclusion, and adaptive support, creating a safe, welcoming space where campers can truly thrive. Activities, schedules, and environments are carefully adapted to individual needs, ensuring every camper can fully participate—modifying sensory experiences, adjusting social interactions, or providing structured transitions.
Camp SkyWild isn't just for kids. From Club SkyWild, a monthly social club for neurodivergent adults, to SkyWild Summit, a skill-building retreat, the camp offers programs that support individuals at every stage of life. Families are part of the experience, too, with weekend camps designed for parents, siblings, and caregivers to build connections and community.
Perhaps most importantly, Camp SkyWild is working to create lasting change. Beyond its own programs, Ross said it provides training and consulting to help other organizations better serve neurodivergent communities and "to help other organizations create more inclusive spaces."
From overnight summer camps to overnight weekend family camps, summits, and monthly social clubs, Camp SkyWild is an exciting space for special needs families to learn, grow, and thrive together.
Please call (734) 436-1453 or visit campskywild.org for more information. Camp SkyWild is located at YMCA Camp Timbers, 3269 Horseshoe Lake Road, West Branch.
Friendship Circle
Friendship Circle of Michigan is a community of support, inclusion, and real friendships for individuals with special needs and their families. Through over 40 weekly, monthly, and seasonal programs, Friendship Circle provides a nurturing space where participants can grow socially, physically, and cognitively through interactive play, engaging activities, and hands-on workshops.
"At Friendship Circle, we encourage you to 'find your circle,'" Director of Programs Elisabeth Lockwood said. "Friendship Circle provides your family with a supportive community that gives you the opportunity to form real friendships within a non-judgmental environment."
Programs are designed to support every aspect of development. Art and music programs foster creativity through painting, sculpture, and music-making, while sports and fitness programs promote movement and health with adapted games and activities. Social and recreational programs help children build friendships in a welcoming setting, and life skills programs encourage independence through cooking, gardening, and money management. For those eager to learn, educational programs provide hands-on experiences in STEM, language arts, and more.
Friendship Circle isn't just for kids—it's for parents, too. Raising a child with special needs comes with unique challenges, and the parent program provides a space to connect, celebrate, and thrive with other parents who understand the journey. From coffee meet-ups to themed gatherings, parents can share experiences, seek advice, and build lasting friendships in a community that supports and celebrates every triumph big or small.
When summer rolls around, Rubin Family Summer Camp allows children to make memories, build friendships, and embrace adventure. Families can choose between a day camp, which blends fun and learning, or an overnight camp, where kids experience the joy of independence in a supportive environment.
No matter the program, Friendship Circle works individually with each family to ensure every child and parent finds belonging, encouragement, and the friendships they deserve.
Please call (248) 788-7878 or visit friendshipcircle.org for more information. Friendship Circle's facilities are located at 6892 West Maple Road, West Bloomfield.
FAR Therapeutic Arts and Recreation
Since 1951, FAR Therapeutic Arts and Recreation has been transforming the lives of kids with disabilities through the power of music, art, dance/movement, and recreation. Unlike traditional therapies, FAR nurtures the whole child, helping them overcome physical, intellectual, and emotional barriers while developing new skills, confidence, and friendships. Last year, FAR reached over 1,600 individuals through private and group therapies. However, according to FAR President Pamela Ayres, FAR is more than just therapy—it's a place where kids and families find a true sense of belonging. "It's really something our clients and their families give to us—and to each other," she said. "A place that is safe, precious, and powerful." One parent shared, "They make it fun … they'll start with where you are and just know how to develop it."
FAR's programs make therapy both engaging and empowering. According to Ayres, music Therapy offers exciting classes like Friends with Rhythm, FAR Fusion Band, and Chime In, where participants develop musical skills while building confidence and connection.
Dance/Movement Therapy brings energy and social fun through the Social Dance Club while Recreation and Sports Therapy fosters teamwork and friendship with programs like Social Connections and the FAR Bowling Team.
Camp Sing Out is a musical theater inclusion camp for those who dream of the stage. It is a place where teens and young adults with disabilities experience the magic of show business. From singing and acting to mastering theater terms and costume design, campers immerse themselves in every aspect of a production. The grand finale? A full-scale performance where they shine in front of a live audience celebrating their creativity and hard work.
FAR Therapeutic Arts and Recreation is located at 1669 West. Maple Road, Birmingham. For more information, please call (248) 646-3347 or visit far-therapy.org.
Practical Strategies to Help Kids (and Parents) Thrive
Raising a child with special needs is a journey filled with rewarding moments and unique hurdles, particularly regarding communication and behavior, but small shifts in how we interact with our kids can make a big difference.
Say What You Want to See
When a child engages in challenging behavior, it’s natural to focus on what not to do—“Stop yelling!” or “Don’t throw your food!” But Jessica Irish, board-certified behavior analyst, licensed behavior specialist, and Co-Owner and Clinical Director of Creating Brighter Futures, explained that children respond more positively when given clear, direct instructions instead. “Instead of [saying] ‘stop yelling,’ you could say ‘use your inside voice.’ Or rather than ‘don’t throw your food,’ you could say, ‘tell me you are all done,’” she suggested. By shifting directions from negative to positive, children learn what’s expected of them in a way that’s easier to understand.
Make Instructions Clear and Simple
For children with communication delays, long or complex instructions can be overwhelming. “Saying, ‘It’s time to put your shoes on so we can go to the park and play with our friends,’ might be too many words or too much information for a child to process and understand,” Irish explained. Instead, she recommended keeping it short and clear, like “First shoes, then park.” Using fewer words reduces confusion and frustration, making it easier for children to follow directions.
Give Choices Instead of Asking Questions
If a task has to be done, phrasing it as a question can backfire. When you ask, ‘Will you brush your teeth?’ you’re giving the child the option to say no. Instead, Irish recommended presenting the task as a statement with built-in choices: “Do you want to brush your teeth now or in five minutes?” This way, the child feels a sense of control while still understanding that the task isn’t optional.
Prioritize Your Well-Being
Caring for a child with special needs can be exhausting, and many parents put themselves last, but a parent can’t pour from an empty cup. Irish encouraged parents to rethink self-care, emphasizing that it doesn’t have to mean a spa day or a vacation. “It might be taking an extra five minutes in the hot shower or waking up 20 minutes early so that you can have a cup of coffee in silence,” she said. She also urged parents to reach out for help when they need it. “Ask friends or family members to help with childcare so you can go to the grocery store alone or go out to dinner with your spouse.”
Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. “Many families tell me they don’t have the time for self-care,” said Irish. However, she reiterated that taking care of yourself is essential so that you are in the best possible position to take care of your child—much like the “airplane analogy when we are told to put your mask on first and then help those around you.”
By making small changes in how we communicate and care for ourselves, we can create a more positive and manageable daily life for our children and ourselves.
Summer Fun for Special Needs Families
Big Blue Swim School
As summer approaches, parents look for activities that keep kids active, engaged, and learning—and swim lessons are a perfect fit. At Big Blue Swim School Ann Arbor, children of all abilities, including those with special needs, can benefit from customized swim instruction tailored to their unique learning styles. “We encourage parents of special needs children to discuss their child’s specific requirements with our instructors,” said General Manager Nate Kushion. “This way, we can tailor our lessons to meet each child’s individual needs.” By fostering open communication with parents, Big Blue ensures a positive and supportive environment where kids can build confidence, improve motor skills, and develop essential water safety techniques. Swimming not only provides a fun way to stay cool in the summer but also promotes physical fitness and lifelong safety skills. “We’re here to support all families and make sure every child has the opportunity to learn and enjoy swimming.”
Big Blue Swim School Ann Arbor is located at 914 West Eisenhower Parkway, Ann Arbor. Please call (734) 545-8451 or visit bigblueswimschool.com for more information.
Blue Heron Bay Spray Park
Splash pads offer a splash of fun for everyone, providing an inclusive, sensory-friendly way for special needs kids to cool off and enjoy the summer. Independence Lake’s Blue Heron Bay Spray Park is a summer paradise with a water play structure, slides, jet spider, and more, plus shady pavilions, tasty concessions, and fun for all ages.
Independence Lake County Park Blue Heron Bay Spray Park is located at 3200 Jennings, Whitmore Lake and can be reached at (734) 449-4437 or by visiting their website at washtenaw.org/424/Independence-Lake-Park.
Lily Pad Springs
Another option is Lily Pad Springs, Michigan's largest splash pad. Its 5,500 sq. ft. has over 50 play features, four water slides, a splash bucket, and full ADA accessibility for all ages and abilities.
Lily Pad Springs is located at 6200 Farmington Road, West Bloomfield. Please call (248) 451-1900 or visit wbparks.org/parks-facilities/lily-pad-springs for more information.
Kirksey Recreation Center
The Kirksey Recreation Center’s indoor aquatic area offers 6,500 square feet of water-filled adventure for all ages. Whether you're looking to relax, play, or get active, there’s something for everyone. Start at the zero-depth entry, where sprays and geysers create a playful water playground. Float along the lazy river on an inner tube, unwind in the warm, bubbling spa, or get some laps in at the four-lane warm-up pool. A water slide satisfies thrill-seeking swimmers. Livonia’s outdoor options include Botsford Pool, Shelden Pool, and Clements Circle Splash Park. Whether indoors or outdoors, Livonia Parks & Recreation has plenty of ways to make a splash. Livonia Parks & Recreation superintendent Ted Davis said they are ready to assist! “We are here to help; we want to create an environment that is as open and inclusive as we can.” Recreation Center staff are KultureCity-certified, meaning they have received training on sensory needs and how to engage with individuals with sensory needs. Davis said they welcome kids of all abilities—“We all want to be outdoors. We all want to swim! Who wouldn’t want to do those things, especially when it’s hot outside?”
Livonia Parks & Recreation’s Kirksey Recreation Center is located at 15100 Hubbard, Livonia. For more information, please call (734) 466-2900 or visit livonia.gov/1960/parks-recreation.
Centennial Playground at Gallup Park
The Rotary Club of Ann Arbor Centennial Playground at Gallup Park is a universal access playground where children of all abilities can play and grow together. Featuring a fairy-tale theme and three distinct play areas inspired by Michigan's natural environments, the playground is tailored to support skill development, including coordination, balance, and strength. What sets it apart for special needs kids is the combination of accessible ramps, topography changes, and wide sidewalks, ensuring every child, regardless of ability, can explore and engage with family and friends. Additionally, the playground provides a positive sensory experience, and its inclusive design makes it a perfect place for caregivers with disabilities to play and interact with their children.
Centennial Playground at Gallup Park is located at 3000 Fuller Road, Ann Arbor. Please call (734) 794-6240 or visit a2gov.org/parks-and-recreation/parks-and-places/universal-access-playground/ for more information.
DNR’s Outdoor Adventure Center
The DNR’s Outdoor Adventure Center (OAC) brings Michigan’s wilderness to life with interactive exhibits like walking behind a waterfall, stepping into a fishing boat, and hitting the trail on a mountain bike or snowmobile. Learn how the DNR manages our forests, wildlife, and fish as you climb a Bur oak tree, explore an airplane, and discover the creatures in the aquarium. With sensory-friendly options, a quiet room, and KultureCity-certified staff, the OAC is the perfect place for everyone to dive into Michigan’s outdoor adventures.
The OAC hosts sensory-friendly days throughout the year, offering a quieter, more relaxed experience for visitors. On these days, the center will feature lower volume, sensory materials, and a welcoming environment for all.
The DNR’s Outdoor Adventure Center is located at 1801 Atwater Street, Detroit. Please call (844) 622-6367 for more information or visit michigan.gov/oac.
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Raising a child with special needs comes with unique challenges, but it also brings moments of incredible growth, resilience, and joy. The proper support and strategies can make all the difference—whether it's navigating therapies, advocating at school, or creating a home environment where a child feels empowered. From practical tips to expert insights, community groups and carefully curated summer camps and classes, special needs children and their families will not just get by but will truly thrive. Every child deserves the chance to shine, and every family deserves the tools to help them do it.