As pediatric therapists specializing in ABA therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, we at FOCUS Therapy understand that every child experiences the world differently through their senses. In Southwest Florida, we’re fortunate to have a growing number of sensory-friendly activities and venues that welcome children of all abilities. Whether your child is neurotypical, has autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, or other developmental differences, finding the right sensory environment can make all the difference in creating positive family experiences.

Understanding Sensory-Friendly: What Does It Really Mean?

Before diving into our favorite Fort Myers activities, it’s important to understand what “sensory-friendly” actually means. A sensory-friendly environment is one that has been intentionally modified to reduce overwhelming sensory input while still providing engaging experiences.

This typically includes:

• Lower lighting levels to reduce visual overwhelm.
• Reduced noise levels or elimination of sudden, loud sounds.
• Comfortable spaces for children who need breaks or quiet time.
• Flexible participation allowing children to engage at their own pace.
• Staff training to understand and support diverse sensory needs.
• Clear communication about what to expect during activities.

These modifications don’t take away from the fun—they simply make experiences accessible to more children and families.

The Importance of Supporting Your Child’s Sensory Diet

As occupational therapists, we frequently discuss “sensory diets” with families. A sensory diet isn’t about food—it’s a personalized schedule of sensory activities designed to help children maintain optimal arousal and attention throughout their day. Research demonstrates that sensory diets can significantly improve classroom task performance and psychosocial functioning when developed in consultation with occupational therapists.

Think of sensory input like nutrition for the nervous system. Just as we need balanced meals throughout the day, children need balanced sensory experiences. Some children crave intense sensory input (proprioception through jumping, spinning, or deep pressure), while others are easily overwhelmed and need calming activities (soft lighting, gentle music, or weighted blankets). Understanding your child’s unique sensory profile helps you choose activities that will be both enjoyable and regulating.

Top Sensory-Friendly Destinations in Fort Myers

Alliance for the Arts

Location: 10091 McGregor Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33919

Every third Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon, the Alliance for the Arts hosts a free Family ArtLab!, which welcomes families and kids of all abilities for hands-on art projects, gallery activities, games, and more. The center has made significant efforts to ensure their programs are inclusive and accessible.

Sensory Benefits: Art activities provide tactile input and can be incredibly calming. The predictable schedule and welcoming atmosphere help children who thrive with routine and clear expectations.

Calusa Nature Center

Location: 3450 Ortiz Avenue, Fort Myers, FL 33905

The Sensory Sunday programs provide a more controlled environment for children who might find the regular nature center experience overwhelming. The staff modifies their usual programming to accommodate various sensory needs while still providing educational opportunities about local wildlife and ecosystems.

This includes sensory-friendly planetarium shows, which are limited to 50 audience members at a time. The lights remain on, but dimmed, the sound is turned down, and the theatre doors are open so people can move around as needed. Guests are welcome to “chill out” in the lobby, and there’s a short break between the main show and the star talk, so each group can attend (or not) — whatever is best for their needs. Sensory toys are also available upon request.

Sensory Benefits: The nature center’s outdoor trails provide natural sensory input through different textures (wooden boardwalks, dirt paths), sounds (birds, rustling leaves), and visual experiences (native plants, wildlife). The modified programming during Sensory Sundays ensures these experiences are presented in a more predictable, less overwhelming format.

Tips for Success:

• Use the boardwalk trails for proprioceptive input through walking on different surfaces
• Arrive early to allow your child time to acclimate to the environment
• Explore the butterfly garden for gentle visual and auditory sensory input

Laboratory Theater of Florida

Location: 1634 Woodford Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33907

The Laboratory Theater of Florida began offering sensory-friendly performances of many of its Fort Myers shows last year. Sensory-friendly performances feature lower sound and light levels (with all strobe light effects removed) and house lights that stay on low throughout the performance.

Sensory Benefits: These modifications make theater accessible to children who might otherwise find traditional performances overwhelming, while still providing rich auditory and visual experiences in a controlled environment.

Fort Myers Beach

The wide, sandy beaches of Fort Myers provide natural sensory experiences that many children find regulating. The repetitive sound of waves, the tactile experience of sand, and the vast open space can be calming for children who need proprioceptive input or feel overwhelmed in crowded indoor spaces.

Tips for Success:

• Visit during off-peak hours for less crowding
• Bring sensory tools like fidgets or noise-canceling headphones
• Have a plan for sandy textures if your child has tactile sensitivities

Manatee Park

This peaceful park offers opportunities for wildlife viewing in a calm, natural environment. The predictable layout and gentle sensory input make it ideal for children who prefer quieter activities.

IMAG History & Science Center

While not specifically marketed as sensory-friendly, IMAG offers hands-on exhibits that provide excellent tactile and visual sensory experiences. The aquarium’s gentle lighting and flowing water create a naturally calming environment.

Creating Sensory-Friendly Experiences at Home and in the Community

As a multidisciplinary therapy team, FOCUS Therapy encourages families to advocate for sensory-friendly modifications wherever they go.

Here are some strategies:

Before You Go:

• Call ahead to discuss your child’s needs
• Ask about quieter times to visit
• Inquire about sensory break spaces
• Request information about lighting and sound levels

Bring Your Toolkit:

• Noise-canceling headphones or earplugs
• Favorite fidget toys or sensory tools
• Weighted lap pad or compression vest
• Snacks that provide oral sensory input (crunchy or chewy foods)

Communication Strategies:

From our speech therapy perspective, preparing children for new sensory experiences through social stories, visual schedules, or role-play can significantly improve their ability to participate successfully. Ask your child’s speech therapist for tips specific to your child, and we’ll be happy to help!

The ABA Approach to Sensory-Friendly Outings

Our ABA therapists recommend breaking down sensory-friendly outings into manageable steps. Start with shorter visits during less busy times, gradually building up your child’s tolerance and positive associations. Use reinforcement strategies by pairing preferred sensory experiences with new or challenging ones.

Consider creating a visual schedule showing the sequence of activities, including planned sensory breaks. This predictability helps children feel more secure and regulated throughout the outing.

Building Community Awareness

We’re encouraged by the growing awareness of sensory needs in our Fort Myers community. Many local businesses are beginning to understand the importance of creating inclusive environments. As families, you can help by:

• Thanking businesses that make sensory-friendly accommodations.
• Sharing positive experiences with other families.
• Providing gentle feedback to venues about how they could improve accessibility.

When to Seek Professional Support

If you notice that sensory challenges are significantly impacting your child’s ability to participate in family activities, school, or daily routines, our multidisciplinary team at FOCUS Therapy can help assess your child’s unique sensory profile and develop strategies to support their participation in meaningful activities.

Occupational therapists can evaluate sensory processing patterns and develop personalized sensory diets. Speech therapists can address communication challenges that may arise from sensory overwhelm. ABA therapists can help develop coping strategies and positive associations with challenging sensory experiences.

Looking Ahead: Fort Myers’ Sensory-Friendly Future

We’re excited to see Fort Myers continuing to expand sensory-friendly offerings. The more our community understands and accommodates diverse sensory needs, the more all families can enjoy the wonderful experiences our area has to offer.

Remember, every child’s sensory needs are unique. What works beautifully for one child might not be suitable for another. The key is understanding your child’s individual profile and finding activities that match their sensory preferences while gently challenging them to expand their comfort zones.

Your Next Steps

Start small by trying one new sensory-friendly activity in Fort Myers. Pay attention to what your child enjoys and what helps them stay regulated. Use these observations to guide future choices and to advocate for your child’s needs in other environments.

Most importantly, remember that the goal isn’t to eliminate all sensory challenges, but to provide your child with the tools and experiences they need to participate fully in family life and community activities.

FOCUS offers Fort Myers speech therapy, ABA therapy, occupational therapy, and ADOS testing. Call (239) 313.5049 or Contact Us online.

Additional Resources:

Sensory Integration in Autism Spectrum Disorders, By Cindy Hatch-Rasmussen, M.A., OTR/L

More Blog Entries:

Fort Myers OT Insights: Helping Children With Autism Manage Sensory Overload