If you are from the Philadelphia area, you know that it would not be summer without a trip to the Jersey Shore. From Sandy Hook to Cape May, there is a beach town with a vibe for everyone. I am thankful to be able to visit the southern parts of the shore frequently and see what inclusive experiences it has to offer for my neurodiverse family.
Even though the summer is ending, my favorite time to visit “the shore” is in the fall. The air is a little crisp, the crowds are non-existent, and the peacefulness of the beach can be heard louder than ever.
It is beautiful to see that inclusive businesses and experiences are becoming more prevalent at the Jersey Shore. I have been able to experience many of these spots below, while others are on my bucket list for future visits.
This is my first attempt at a guide book type post, so I hope this proves helpful for some families hoping to visit the shore in the near or distant future! (It was fun for me to gather all of these locations and visit many of them!)
Please visit websites for information on days and times open, especially during the off season.
Inclusive Restaurants:
The Other Lucy Beach Grille, 9210 Atlantic Ave, Margate City, NJ 08402
Brandon’s Pancake House and Ice Cream Parlor, 6200 New Jersey Ave, Wildwood, NJ 08260
Compassion Cafe LBI, 10 N. Delaware Ave, Beach Haven, NJ 08008
Riv’s Toms River Hub, 1850 Hooper Ave, Toms River 08753
Inclusive Experiences:
Waves of Strength, Surf City, NJ 08008
A Gift from the Heart, 715 Arnold Ave, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
Locations of All Ability Friendly Playgrounds:
Tom’s River Field of Dreams, 1505 N Bay Ave, Toms River, NJ 08753
Splash Park and Playground, 7001 Ocean Ave, Wildwood, NJ 08260
Silver Lake Park, 410 7th Ave, Belmar, NJ 07719
Windward Beach Park, 265 Princeton Ave, Brick Township, NJ 08724
I would love to hear about more recommendations you have for inclusive experiences or businesses at the Jersey Shore! Email me at most.au.some.journey@gmail.com.
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Do your kids love Bluey as much as mine?!
Bluey x CAMP is coming to the Philadelphia Area from December 2024 through the beginning of May 2025!
Explore a recreation of the Heeler`s house with hands-on experiences and end your day meeting Bluey and Bingo!
Each month there will be Sensory Friendly times available that were designed by occupational therapists. There will be increased staff to help support those who need it, as well as:
💡Dimmed lights
🎧 Lowered sounds
🎲 Modified games
📍King of Prussia Mall
160 N Gulph Rd, Level 3
King of Prussia, PA 19406
#bluey #kingofprussiamall #sensoryfriendlyphilly #sensoryfriendly #sensoryplay #autismfun #autismacceptance #sensoryprocessingdisorder #spd #autismfriendly #autismfamily
Families in the Bucks County, PA area - check out @lucentreflections for your family photos!
Lucy was so engaged with my children, and gave my son time to warm up to her and the idea of photos. She was so flexible with our ever changing schedule, and even came to our house where my son was more comfortable.
She is a blessing to the neurodivergent population and giving space and time so that every family member feels comfortable!
Thanks for the beautiful photos, Lucy ❤️
#buckscountypa #buckscountyphotographer #familyphotography #autismfriendly #autismfamily
Did you know that select @chuckecheese locations offer Sensory Sensitive Sundays on the 1st Sunday of each month?
🌟 Opens 2 hours early
🔦 Reduced lighting and noise
🎮 Food and games offered
♾️ Trained and caring staff
Save this reel for locations around the Philadelphia area that offer Sensory Sensitive Sundays! (Not all locations participate so check before you go 🙂)
#autismfamily #sensoryfriendlyphilly #sensoryfriendly #chuckecheese #autismmom #explorebuckscounty #visitphilly #visitnj #cherryhillnj #dover #princeton #visitdelaware #phillyparents
Looking for advice on IEPs, 504 Plans, or special education in general? We have you covered!
Come join Bucks County Neurodivergent Family Connects - a FREE monthly support group for parents and caregivers of neurodivergent children.
My dear friend @bethiesue23 and I have found so much strength with fellow caregivers and hope to meet more of you as our group continues to expand.
Our July 18th meeting will be a bit different - Educational Advocate, Suzie Showalter, will be coming to speak on all things special education and answer any questions on the need for advocacy in IEP/504 meetings and the rights of our children.
This event is FREE, but please email BUCKSCONDFAMilyconnections@gmail.com or DM me to RSVP. Space is limited!
#educationaladvocate #IEP #specialeducation #504plan #specialedsupport #buckscountypa #buckscondfamilyconnections
🚨 AU-SOME DESTINATION ALERT 🚨
Did you know @legoland.newyork is a Certified Autism Center?
If you are looking for a great deal on tickets for this summer, I have two for you that are available!
- Kids tickets are currently $29 with purchase of a full price adult ticket via the Legoland New York Resort website
- @groupon is also running a 36% savings special with tickets starting at $55.10 for select days this summer
It is hard traveling, especially with loved ones who have extra needs to keep in mind. But finding a great deal on a Certified Autism Center is a great place to start!
#autismfamily #autismtravel #legolandny #legoland #sensoryfriendly #certifiedautismcenter #familytravel #autismacceptance #autismmom #autismfun #ausomedestination #mostausomejourney