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Posted by Circle Care Services on 11/04/2022

10 Outdoor Activities and Trips in New Jersey for Children With Autism

10 Outdoor Activities and Trips in New Jersey for Children With Autism

If you have a child with autism, you’re probably aware of the importance of having access to sensory-friendly places. On the other hand, you might not even be familiar with the concept of a sensory-friendly environment. To put it simply, a sensory-friendly place is a space that has been altered or changed in some way to be more calming for the senses. These include your five basic senses and your sense of balance and movement.

As you may well know, many children with autism experience sensory overload, which means their five senses absorb more information than their brains can process. This often makes them feel overwhelmed and a range of other negative emotions.

There are a variety of ways to create a sensory-friendly place. Here are some common and effective ways to make a more sensory-friendly environment.


  • Reduced noise
  • Dimmed lighting
  • Quiet zones
  • Designated bathrooms
  • Eliminated scents or smells
  • Accessible seating
  • Reduced clutter

If you live in New Jersey and you’re looking for outdoor trips for your child with autism, you’re in the absolute right place. Bear in mind that the places listed below can have just one or two of the features listed above or a combination of those features, and you should never assume that a place has every one of them. Instead, you should do your due diligence and make sure the place you’re thinking of visiting has all the accommodations you need for your child.

1. Jake’s Place Play Areas, Cherry Hill and Delran

Known for its “playgrounds for everybody,” Jake’s Place play areas have balance beams, bridges, rock walls, stepping circles, and climber equipment, as well as specialized areas for children with autism. For enhanced safety, there’s also a fence surrounding the perimeter.

Built-in Challenger Park in Camden County to honor Jacob Miles Cummings-Nasto, who suffered from a rare cardiac condition that prevented him from enjoying certain activities in a traditional playground, this award-winning play place was founded on the belief that all children, including those with autism, deserve a place to play.

  • Cherry Hill address: 101 Bortons Mill Road, Cherry Hill, N.J. 08034
  • Delran address: 12 Hartford Road, Delran, N.J. 08075
  • Phone number: (856) 662-4418

2. Cape May County Park and Zoo, Cape May Court House

This 85-acre zoo, which is home to over 550 animals across 250 species, is the perfect place for your child with autism. Chances are that you’re aware of the fact that children with autism spectrum disorder benefit greatly from being around animals since animals provide a comforting presence and can alleviate stress and anxiety.

The zoo also boasts lush country gardens and a peaceful natural environment, not to mention a large playground right outside the zoo gates, that your child will surely enjoy.

  • Address: 707 Route 9 North, Cape May Court House, N.J. 08210
  • Phone number: (609) 465-5271

3. Heart of Surfing, Egg Harbor Township

Heart of Surfing, a nonprofit organization, teaches children with autism and other developmental disabilities how to surf, do yoga, roller skate, engage in fitness activities, and create art.

Although the organization started just a few years ago with only a few participating families, it has grown tremendously and continues to thrive.

  • Address: 409 Superior Rd Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
  • Phone number: (609) 705-5323

To view the full list of kid-friendly activities in New Jersey, check out the full-length blog on our website!

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