Month: June 2017

We got our tickets for free through Fun 107, but admission seemed to be about $16 at the door. Most of the people I talked to at the show at gotten in for free or discounted with coupons they had gotten all over town- grocery stores, flyers, Groupon, Etc. 

Mad science class 

  

Growing up in Massachusetts, I’ve been able to attend Blue Man Group many times. Each time I mention how unfortunate it is that my children have sensory issues, as they would LOVE the show. A few months ago, my mom stumble on information for an “autism friendly” version of the show. Although neither of my children are on the spectrum, the each have slight sensory issues. Arielle he a hard time with loud noises, and Jacen and childhood anxiety that usually prevents him from going into dark and loud places- like theaters. Even run of the mill movies can be difficult. I did my research first, and couldn’t believe everything the Charles Playhouse had to offer to make it an enjoyable experience! 

First, there was a letter (written by a child) that outlined step by step what the kids could expect. Jacen read the letter to Arielle, and knew ahead of time what it would be like getting into the building, finding the bathrooms, playing games in the lobby, finding “quiet rooms” in case they needed a sensory break, strobe light and volume explanations and warnings, and extra time to meet the blue men after the show for kids who are slow to warm up to strangers. Jacen especially appreciated the warning that “the lights go out several times throughout the show, but it is part of an act and they will ALWAYS come back on.” 

We not only survived the show- without any meltdowns- we all ENJOYED ourselves. The kids opted for noise reducing headphones and booster seats- both complimentary through the theater. For the first time ever, they both made it though the entire show without needing to exit the theater for a sensory break. 

We all absolutely LOVED it. They immediately asked to return next year. It’s one of the more expensive things we completed on our bucket list, but 100% worth every penny. 

One of our favorite parks! Watch the boats, tour the fort, use the playground or play at the beach- all free (parking included!)

Save money by checking the library for passes! There are a ton of ways to save on admission listed on the website, for example you can get in for $2 per person (up to four people) with a WIC or SNAP card. 

Tonight we attended a (free) members only party at the zoo! They introduced the new otter pups, and we voted to name them! 

We drove 30 minutes to a new playground, just for jacen to fall asleep on the drive and refuse to wake up to play. We decided to let him sleep and started to drive home. When he finally woke up he was devestated he had missed the playground, so we opted for one that was very close to home. It’s one of Jacen’s least favorite playgrounds because there isn’t much shade and the equipment gets very hot in the summer- but it works in a pinch!

Jacen had an amazing time meeting police officers and fire fighters, touching the trucks, getting finger printed, watching the police dogs and spraying the fire hose! Fingers crossed he hears back on the costume contest! 

The kids had so much fun on Friday, they begged to go back today!

Free admission with our buttonwood zoo memberships! It cost $11 for four of us round trip on the MBTA and $7 to park. Less than 20 bucks for an entire day? #momwin