Getting kids out and about for fun with the family can be tough. But it’s even tougher for families with children on the autism spectrum.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Surrey is giving those families a place to go with its new special event, Sensory Night.
“There’s not a lot of places were people can go who have special needs where they’re embraced,” says Sky Zone owner Morey Chaplick.
While there are many agencies and organizations in the Lower Mainland that provide support to families of autistic children, there aren’t many that give families opportunities to relax and have a good time. Chaplick felt his bounce park could fill that void.
“We just want to give back,” he says. “We want to be embedded in the community.”
The initiative launches on April 4, during Autism Awareness Month.
Every Monday night from 6 to 8 p.m., music will be lowered at the indoor trampoline park, and the trampolines will be turned over to those with autism and other children with special needs. Extra stimulation will also be curbed, to make the event more ideal for those with autism.
The staff have had a training session with the Canucks Autism Network in preparation for the evening sessions. The Canucks Autism Network runs sports, arts and social programs for kids with autism.
As of March 2014, one in 68 children were identified as having Autism Spectrum Disorder. Autism Spectrum Disorder and Autism are terms for a group of complex brain disorders. The disorders can make social interaction and communication challenging.
The Sensory Night event is specifically designed for children with autism and their caregivers, but all families with children with special needs are invited to attend. Caregivers pay half price on Sensory Night.
The indoor trampoline park is a short trip across the Pattullo Bridge, making it easily accessible for local families.
For more information about Sensory Night at Sky Zone Trampoline Park in Surrey, call 778-395-5867 or visit their website. Sky Zone in Surrey is at 11125-124th Street, just over the Pattullo Bridge. The indoor trampoline park can also be found on Facebook.
