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Places where children with special needs can go for fun



9 fun places to take kids that won't overwhelm them

9 fun places to take kids that will not overwhelm them


Finding a place for kids with special needs to play can be difficult. HVP has a list of things to do and places to go.

Winslow Riding Academy 
Therapeutic horseback riding helps children and adults with disabilities improve their physical, cognitive, social and emotional skills. At Winslow Riding Academy, there are specific programs to help meet the needs of individuals whether they have a disability or not. They 
provide both adaptive and traditional horseback riding lessons which incorporate mounted and unmounted horsemanship skills. Warwick, 845-986-6686. 

Camp Huntington 
A special camp 
for special campers. Camp Huntington offers week-long and weekend camps that focus on building independence, team work and bring out hidden talents and abilities. Activities include swimming, music, sports, drama, crafts, cooking, gardening and much more! High Falls, 845-687-7840.

Kelder’s Farm 
Most farms are wonderful for kids with special needs. The entire family can enjoy seasonal berry picking, farm animals and running free. Though not open year round, Kelder’s Farm is a wonderful place for children with special needs and their families. Activities include a giant air pillow, barnyard zoo, corn maze and seasonal berry and apple picking. Kerhonkson, 845-626-7137.

Poets Walk 
There are so many beautiful parks and landscapes in our area. We chose to highlight Poets Walk for this list because of the different type of landscapes to explore, the quietness and overall atmosphere of this park. Red Hook.

Orange County Sports Club 
Try the 
Special Needs Adaptive Play (SNAP) class for kids interested in gymnastics and movement. The class is 45 minutes and there are many other classes from mommy and me up through pre-teen and more so the whole family can play at the same club! Florida, 845-651-1000.

Lagrange Challenger Bowling Club 
Lagrange bowling club is just one example that provides a fun, supportive, non-judgmental environment that promotes self- esteem and socialization. 

Mid-Hudson Music Together 
Child development researchers recommend mixed-age groupings because it fosters natural, family-style learning.  Younger children enjoy observing and imitating the older ones; older children benefit from singing to, moving with and being appreciated by the younger ones.  Each child is given the freedom to participate as they choose, without being burdened by age-specific expectations, and siblings can attend together. 

Art Fun for Kids 
If art is more your child’s interest, Jerry from ARC is teaching kids of all ages how to draw, paint, cut and paste with special programs including art therapy, to special needs classes and art parties. These classes combine art education and learning the basics with a child centered art therapy approach. Kingston, 845-331-2662.

NatureAccess®Program 
Mohonk Preserve's special outdoor program promotes the inclusion of people with disabilities in outdoor nature programs. In order to make participation in these programs as smoothly as possible, call ahead to make arrangements and specially trained staff will be there to assist you. This program is open to class trips, summer camp, public programs, outreach visits and group visits.

Updated September 8, 2023



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