This event is FREE and open to the public. Bring a picnic or purchase food on-site.

April is Autism Acceptance Month! To recognize its significance, various agencies from across the county are “shining brighter together” at a fun family-friendly event at Wheaton Regional Park! Participate in hands-on, sensory-friendly activities while learning more about autism and the variety of resources available in Montgomery County. Attendees will also have an opportunity to help decorate Buddy Benches that will remain at select Montgomery Parks.

Partners include Montgomery Parks and Montgomery Park Police Special Operations, Montgomery Recreation, Montgomery County Police Autism/IDD Unit, City of Gaithersburg Parks, Recreation and Culture, AUSOM, Readability, and The Arc Montgomery County.

Activities will include sensory-friendly story times, face painters, roving characters, arts and crafts, exercise demos, performances, and more. Activities and resources will be provided by Jubilee Association of Maryland, MDTAP, Maryland ABLE, Spirit Club,  Montgomery County Public Library System, and partners. Please check back one week prior to the event for a social story about exactly what to expect.

Community Project – Help us decorate Buddy Benches!

Join us as we paint Buddy Benches at the event! Now, what’s a “Buddy Bench”? Buddy Benches were invented to combat loneliness and bullying in schools, playgrounds, and parks. It’s a way for individuals to signal to others that they are feeling lonely and isolated and need a friend to play with or someone to talk to. The bench allows others to clearly see when another needs support or a friend, and they can join them on the bench for a chat or invite them to play. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.

Montgomery Parks is dedicated to providing quality services and programs that are inclusive and accessible to all.

For questions about this event, please contact the Program Access Office.

Email: [email protected]

Office: 301-495-2581

Rain Date: Saturday, April 13, 2024