Sensory Kits
The museum can become a busy place and we recognize that some children many need special supports to enjoy the museum experience. We have the following supports in place. Please call with any questions about our sensory accommodations.
Sensory Kits are available to check out from the front desk to use during your visit. Sensory Kits include:
● Weighted Vest
● Noise-Reducing Headphones
● Sunglasses
● Visual Timer
● Fidget Toys
● My LaunchPAD Communication Board
My LaunchPAD Communication Board: Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)
We pride ourselves on the museum being a place for children to learn, play, and socialize with other children. This is a tool for children with limited speech capabilities to interact and communicate with others by pointing at pictures. The “My LaunchPAD Communication Board” includes words that are specific to LaunchPAD’s current exhibits.
Sensory Room
The Sensory Room offers a calm and quiet space for children to regulate their emotions or sensory system. The sensory room incorporates unique items intended to help promote sensory-focused play.
The sensory room includes:
● Sensory sacks
● Dim light covers and natural lighting
● Squeeze Seat
● Peanut-shaped exercise balls
● Buildable couch cushions
● Books
● Bubble tubes
● Rocking chairs
● Swing
● Tactile sequin wall
● Sensory scarves
Social Story
Social Stories can help children anticipate and prepare for new situations. By breaking down new situations into smaller parts, social stories can help your child alleviate anxiety, decrease unwanted behaviors, and understand expectations. We have created a LaunchPAD-specific social story that you can share with your child prior to your visit!
Sensory Friendly Night
LaunchPAD Children’s Museum offers Sensory Friendly Nights once a quarter, where children and their families can enjoy a quieter atmosphere outside normal operating hours at no cost. During Sensory Friendly Night, we dim the lights, limit capacity, turn off exhibits that create extra noise, and incorporate sensory activities! View our calendar of events for the next Sensory Friendly Night!
Parking
The main entrance is located on the west side of the building and features push-button door openers for easy access. Free parking is available in the lot
during museum hours, including two handicap-accessible spaces. Additional metered parking can be found on the surrounding streets.
LaunchPAD is also conveniently located near many bus stops:
- Pearl Street & 7th Street: 1 minute walk
- Water Street & 6th Street: 3 minute walk
- Pierce Street & 7th Street: 4 minute walk
Restrooms and Nursing Room
Restrooms are located at the front and back of the building, including handicap-accessible, family restrooms, and baby-changing tables. A separate nursing room is located within the women's restroom by the Odyssey Toy Store
Strollers and Personal Belongings
There is stroller parking available near the front entrance, along with coat racks and lockers.
Water Fountain
There is a water fountain located near the concession area with a bottle refill station.
Concession
LaunchPAD offers a concession area where you may purchase food and beverages. Please keep food and drinks contained to the provided concession area tables.
Seating
There are a variety of benches and seating areas available throughout the museum for seated rest breaks.
Quiet Hours
If you prefer to attend the museum when it is less busy, our quieter hours are typically weekday mornings and early afternoons. However, this is subject to change depending on the time of year and local school schedules.