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Preschool & Elementary (Ages 3–12)

Community & Education

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Why it matters:

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Kids begin to explore interests, develop peer relationships, and thrive with structured routines. Recreational opportunities support physical development, communication, confidence, and social learning.

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  • Preschoolers engage in imaginative and creative play and learn to become more interactive with their peers.

  • School age children learn games with rules and may begin to develop special interests in creative arts, sports or STEM activities.

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“What to know before you go”

  • Programs and activities may offer 1:1 instruction or lessons or offer programs and activities that are provided in small groups or large groups.

  • Features to look for include number of participants, staff to child ratios, access to quiet spaces or flexible participation.

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You may see programs designated as “sensory-friendly”.  This means there are features that support a more relaxed experience such as reduced admission capacity, availability of sensory tool kits, and information guides.

  • Sensory-friendly programs or events are designed for children who may benefit from quieter environments with less stimulation, noise, or crowds.

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You may see programs designated as inclusive or adaptive. This means there are features either built into the program or adaptations that can be made to better support individualized participation. 

  • Inclusive or adaptive programs are designed for children who would benefit from more attention, supervision or support from staff or volunteers (often who have specific training for working with neurodivergent children), the availability of adaptive equipment or devices, or environments with less stimulation or fewer attendees.

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Some inclusive or adaptive programs are specifically designed for children with diverse developmental needs, while others are open to children with and without disabilities.

  • There are a wide range of summer camp programs for school-aged children with general recreational programming as well as camps that offer a chance to explore special interests.

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Suggested Activities:

Look for activities at local parks and recreation programs designated as inclusive or adaptive indoor and outdoor play.

  • Seattle Children’s Play Garden – Inclusive outdoor space and programming for kids of all abilities.
     www.childrensplaygarden.org

  • Pacific Northwest Ballet – Adaptive Dance: For students with Down syndrome and other developmental needs.
     www.pnb.org

  • Seattle Parks Adaptive Recreation  and Camps  Look for inclusive or sensory-friendly summer day camps.
    https://www.seattle.gov/parks/recreation/for-people-with-disabilities

Look for adaptive or inclusive programs that offer skill development and support.

  • Little Bit Therapeutic Riding Center (Redmond) – Adaptive horseback riding for children with disabilities.
     www.littlebit.org

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Tips for Choosing Activities

  • Ask about staff training in neurodiversity or special education.

  • Look for sensory-friendly hours, visual schedules, or social stories to help prepare.

  • Consider the size of the group – some kids do best in small or 1:1 settings.

  • Start with short-term or drop-in events to test the fit before committing.

See our Pathways to Play Recreational Guide and Recreation Decision-Making Guide for more information about choosing play and recreation activities in your community that are right for your child and family.

 

Want to Explore More?

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Check out the Find Resources Near Me map  on AS360 for activities and programs near you!

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