As part of our recognition and celebration of Autism Acceptance Month, Group Health Cooperative of South Central Wisconsin (GHC-SCW) is excited to announce a special partnership with the Madison Children’s Museum to offer free Sensory-Friendly Nights open to the public, a series of events aimed at providing a welcoming and supportive environment for children with autism and their families.
A Shared Mission of Acceptance
With April being Autism Acceptance Month, these two local organizations are coming together to promote understanding, inclusion and acceptance of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Autistic people often experience the world differently from neurotypical people. These differences include unique ways of thinking, learning and interacting with others. While these differences can pose challenges, they also offer perspectives that can be incredibly valuable to society.
What to Expect at Sensory-Friendly Nights
Sensory –Friendly Nights, designed specifically for individuals who experience sensory differences, will feature a range of calming and engaging activities in a fun environment. These events are part of the continued efforts by both organizations to foster inclusivity, acceptance and understanding of neurodiverse individuals within the Madison community. The first Sensory-Friendly Night kicks off on Friday, April 25, 2025, from 4:30–7:00 p.m. at the Madison Children’s Museum
Here’s what families can look forward to:
- Special programming and sensory-friendly activities tailored to accommodate various needs
- Quiet spaces for families to relax and recharge
- Take away items for kids to use and learn from at home enhancing their sensory development
- A fun environment for all attendees, with engaging activities that promote inclusivity and joy for children of all abilities
2025 Free Sensory-Friendly Night Schedule:
- Friday, April 25, 2025, 4:30-7:00 p.m.
- Friday, July 25, 2025, 4:30-7:00 p.m.
- Friday, October 24, 2025, 4:30-7:00 p.m.
Pre-registration for the event is recommended but not required. Register here for the Friday, April 25 Free Sensory-Friendly Night.
Supporting Families Beyond the Museum
GHC-SCW’s involvement in this partnership is rooted in its ongoing commitment to supporting families of children with autism — not just during Autism Acceptance Month, but all year long.
Through the GHC-SCW Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Program, families can access services that provide education, tools and personalized support. The GHC-SCW Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Program provides neuroaffirming and inclusive evidence-based services to children diagnosed with ASD aged 4-16 years and their parents/caregivers. Services are offered in a 1 to1 or group setting. The program provides opportunities for children and their parents/caregivers to learn about social skills and emotion regulation. Children work with a therapist to learn a new skill each week. Parents learn how to support their children’s development, coaching them to practice and generalize their skills.
To learn more about GHC-SCW’s Autism Spectrum Disorder Program and how it supports families in our community, visit: ghcscw.com/autism
