It was difficult to tell who was happier at the Children’s Museum of Virginia last Sunday morning – the kids or their parents.

The museum opened two hours earlier than usual so special needs children could enjoy the exhibits and adapted programs at their own pace.

Sponsored by the Elizabeth River Tunnels, the Special Day for Special Needs program allowed unrestricted use of the museum’s regular attractions plus a few special features.

One of the upstairs classrooms was converted into a quiet room, where a child over-stimulated by noise, activity or visual distractions could rest if necessary. Another was repurposed into a music and sensory room. Here, museum educator Corey Staten played an African drum and occasionally teased a youngster into a song or movement. Small musical instruments and tactile motor activities provide needed self-soothing for those with sensory issues. Read More