C.A.S.T. (Creative, Accepting, Sensory Friendly, Theatre) Winter Theatre Classes
2026-02-21 09:00 - 10:30, 2026-02-28 09:00 - 10:30, 2026-03-07 09:00 - 10:30, 2026-03-14 09:00 - 10:30 (America/Chicago) | Stages Theatre Company, Hopkins, MN
C.A.S.T. is a year-round educational theatre arts program dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming and comfortable environment for students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other sensory sensitivities for Grades 2-12. The program is designed for youth with autism that would like to make new friends, explore deeper levels of communication and self-expression, creatively work on social skills, and develop acting skills and improvisation techniques.
STC teaching artists have direct experience teaching youth with autism, hold Direct Support Certification through AuSM, and are compassionate and flexible educators. Students are welcome to bring fidgets, headphones, and any other supports they may prefer to have with them in class. A designated take-a-break space will be provided for each class, as well.
Dates and Times:
Saturdays from 1/24/2026 through 3/14/2026 from 9-10:30 am (Grades 6-8), 11 am – 12:30 pm (Grades 9-12), and 1-2:30 pm (Grades 2-5)

Sensory Friendly Art Club
2026-02-26 16:30 - 18:00, 2026-03-05 16:30 - 18:00, 2026-03-12 16:30 - 18:00, 2026-03-19 16:30 - 18:00 | Mess Hall Arts, 906 Mainstreet, Hopkins, MN, 55343, United States
This Art club is being put on between the collaboration of Mess Hall Arts and the Down Syndrome Association of MN.
This curriculum is designed for 5th-9th graders focusing on Sensory Exploration. Each class is focused on 1 or more sensory experience through art and creation. We use Paint, Clay, Recycled Materials, Found Objects and more to create art pieces each class. We focus on Process not product so that each child feels accomplished and has something to take home at the end of each class.

AuSM Independent Adults with ASD Support Group
2026-02-26 18:30 - 20:00 | Virtual Event
Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder gather in this typically larger group to support each other, socialize, and discuss common interests and concerns. This group is held virtually only.

MNprov Mixers (in-person) for Adults (18+)
2026-02-26 18:30 - 20:00, 2026-03-05 18:30 - 20:00, 2026-03-12 18:30 - 20:00, 2026-03-19 18:30 - 20:00 | Youth Performance Company, 641 Fairview Ave N Suite 191, Saint Paul, MN, 55104, United States
At MNprov, we believe the magic of improv isn’t just about laughs (though there’s plenty of that) — it’s about building connections, confidence, and creativity. And doing so in a way that’s accessible to everyone. Our goal is to empower diverse learners to build social-emotional skills, resilience, and meaningful connections through the art of improv. And guess what? It works!
The MNprov Mixers are a safe place for neurodivergent adults (18+) to have fun, meet new people, increase confidence, and decrease stress. No experience necessary. This event is FREE. Come every week, or only once, or somewhere in-between.

Improv is inherently inclusive. All participants are needed for a scene to succeed, and everyone’s suggestions are incorporated into the scene. The improv rule of “Yes, and . . .” allows participants to feel safe and supported and more willing to take risks. As players say “YES” to each other and add their own ideas, they build trust and create something brand new together.
This is a small group activity with fewer than 20 participants. We have sensory items (created by AUSM) that are available at our workshops. Individuals are welcome to take breaks as needed. Lighting can be adjusted to meet needs. Participants are encouraged to let us know how we can best support them.
A social narrative about the MNprov Mixers workshops and a registration link can be found on our website.

Family Fun Day at We Rock the Spectrum
2026-02-28 09:00 - 12:00 | We Rock the Spectrum Eagan, 1020 Discovery Rd #170, Eagan, MN, 55121, United States
Join the Autism Society of Minnesota for a Family Fun Day at We Rock the Spectrum, a sensory-safe indoor gym designed for kids and families of all abilities. On Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., AuSM is inviting our community to come together for play, connection, and joy in a judgment-free environment.
This is an open-house style event, meaning families can arrive when it works best for them and leave when it feels right. There’s no pressure to stay the full time—follow your child’s needs and rhythms. Adults are welcome to participate, but please note that some equipment has a weight limit. Socks are required on the gym floor.
Parents and caregivers may attend at no cost if they are not planning to participate in play.
What to Expect
We Rock the Spectrum Eagan will be open exclusively to our community during this event. Families can enjoy:

Sensory-friendly play equipment

A welcoming, judgment-free space

A parent resource fair

Snacks and beverages provided

Opportunities to connect with other families

We’ll also be collecting non-perishable food items to donate to a local food pantry, for those who wish to participate.
All participants will be required to complete a waiver prior to entering the gym.
Whether your family comes for 20 minutes or the whole morning, we hope you’ll join us for a day centered on fun, flexibility, and belonging.

AuSM Women's Support Group
2026-03-05 18:30 - 20:00 | Virtual Event
Women with Autism Spectrum Disorder gather to discuss challenges, strategies, and topics unique to being a woman on the spectrum. This group is held virtually only.

See Me Neurodiverse support meeting
2026-03-05 19:00 - 20:30 | See Me Neurodiverse, 6000 McColl Drive, Savage, MN, 55378
This is a support meeting for the parents and caregivers of the neurodiverse to share our journeys together and help spread our wealth of resources to the community!
These meetings provide a safe space for parents/guardians/anyone who needs additional support while caring for neurodiverse children. Our mission for this support group is to connect, share, and support one another on our journey.
First Thursday of month 7-8:30pm and Every third Wednesday from 7-8:30pm

Sensory Friendly Hours at the Minnesota Transportation Museum
2026-03-07 13:00 - 16:00 | Minnesota Transportation Museum, 193 Pennsylvania Ave, St Paul, MN, 55130
The Minnesota Transportation Museum is committed to welcoming all train enthusiasts! From 1-4pm on the first Saturday of the month, noises and lights in the museum will be minimized and sensory tools will be available to borrow. Sensory tools will also be available on our short caboose ride (included in admission). The admission cost for an adult is $15, student (6-16) is $10, and preschooler (3-5) is $5.

Sensory Friendly Sunday at the Walker Art Center
2026-03-08 08:00 - 11:00 | Walker Art Center, Minneapolis, Minnesota
Sensory Friendly Sunday is a monthly event is designed for kids, teens, and adults with sensory processing differences, autism spectrum disorder or developmental disabilities. From 8 am to 11 am on the second Sunday of the month, the galleries will be closed to the general public, and sound and light levels will be adjusted, allowing visitors to enjoy the museum in a calm environment with accommodations such as quiet spaces, fidgets, and sunglasses available. Experience select Walker exhibitions, make art, watch a short film, or just hang out in a different setting. Featured exhibitions and activities change each month. Visit https://walkerart.org/visit/sensory-friendly-sundays/ for more information or to register.
Sensory Friendly Sunday was developed in consultation with the Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM) and the University of Minnesota’s Occupational Therapy Program.
For more information about accessibility at the Walker, visit our Access page: https://walkerart.org/visit/accessibility.

Understanding Autism
2026-03-09 18:00 - 19:00 | Virtual Event
Understanding Autism is AuSM’s introductory class. You’ll learn all about the diagnosis, common characteristics, and some basic evidenced-based best practices to support autistic individuals and sensory processing sensitivities. Each session lasts one hour with time for you to ask specific questions.
Who Should Participate
Caregivers, parents, grandparents, group home and day program staff, Personal Care Attendants, and health care staff will benefit from this class. *Note, this is a single-session class. Content is the same for all sessions. AuSM offers these sessions at different times to accommodate as many schedules as possible. When registering, select the session that works best for you.

AuSM Adult Coffee Club
2026-03-10 15:00 - 17:00 | Dogwood Coffee, 2700 University Ave W Suite 100, Saint Paul, MN, 55114, United States
Coffee Club is a space where autistic and neurodiverse adults can connect with each other, foster friendships, and build community while enjoying a favorite beverage and/or snack. Adults are welcome to bring items that make them feel comfortable, can stay as long as they’d like, stim, and parallel play. We ask that participants purchase something from our venues.
AuSM will provide a concierge staff person to help assist with questions, check-in, help with ordering, and manage any issues that arise during the club. AuSM will provide a number of resources, including a social narrative providing club details, parking info, menus, and more. Due to staffing, AuSM is unable to provide one-to-one support, however it is encouraged to bring your own PCA or support person if needed.

AuSM Professional Networking Group
2026-03-12 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual Event
If you’re a professional who works with autistic clients – or are working towards your licensure so you can – AuSM’s Counseling and Consulting team has a resource to help you connect with therapists in our space. AuSM’s Professional Networking Group offers a chance for therapists to meet with other professionals who see clients with autism to ask questions, share cases, and build peer-to-peer relationships.
This group is meant for:

Therapists
Psychologists
Occupational therapists
Psychiatrists
Social workers
Case managers
Healthcare providers

As we meet, one member of AuSM’s staff will share an anonymized case study, then open the group for others to share relevant experiences that we can all learn from. This is a great opportunity to troubleshoot your problems and learn from the wisdom of other professionals as we work through challenging cases.
With increased diagnosis of autism, therapists are becoming aware that they need to increase competency in serving these clients; this group can help. We paused this networking group during the pandemic, but now it’s time we pick it back up. Like you, we’ve learned a lot since this group last met. Eager to likewise learn and share? Let’s talk it out – and then keep it going.

2026-03-12 18:30 - 19:30 | Virtual Event
Join us for an inspiring session with Dr. Kevin Schultz of Invigorate Family Chiropractic! Dr. Kevin will explain how neurological based chiropractic care can support and improve the lives of neurodiverse children. He’ll discuss the potential benefits, signs that chiropractic care may be a good fit for your child, and what you can expect during care. It’s a great opportunity to learn, ask questions, and explore new ways to support your child’s well-being. Can’t wait to see you there!
Location: Virtual
Registration: Please register at least one week in advance. Contact the Family Caregiver Specialist (see below) for last-minute registration.
Please call the Family Caregiver Specialist at (952) 513-4990 or events@partnersmn.com with any questions or assistance with registration.
This event is open to the community to join. Please register to receive the invite to join virtually.

March Resource Night: A Neurodiverse Approach to Neurologically focused Chiropractic Care
2026-03-12 18:30 - 19:30 | Virtual Event
Join us for an inspiring session with Dr. Kevin Schultz of Invigorate Family Chiropractic! Dr. Kevin will explain how neurological based chiropractic care can support and improve the lives of neurodiverse children. He’ll discuss the potential benefits, signs that chiropractic care may be a good fit for your child, and what you can expect during care. It’s a great opportunity to learn, ask questions, and explore new ways to support your child’s well-being. Can’t wait to see you there!
Registration: Please register at least one week in advance. Contact the Family Caregiver Specialist (see below) for last-minute registration.
Please call the Family Caregiver Specialist at (952) 513-4990 or events@partnersmn.com with any questions or assistance with registration.
This event is open to the community to join. Please register to receive the invite to join virtually.
Disclaimer: Resource Nights at Partners In Excellence are designed to connect service providers and resources with caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities. While Partners In Excellence strives to host qualified guest presenters who provide valuable information and resources, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or appropriateness of the actions and statements made by these presenters.
Please note that Resource Nights are not intended to serve as therapeutic services, and we do not offer medical recommendations. We strongly encourage all participants seeking medical advice to consult their child’s healthcare provider.
Please be advised that this event may be recorded for informational and educational purposes. By attending, you acknowledge and consent to the recording of your image, voice, and any questions or comments you may share during the session. The recording may be used for future viewing, training, or promotional purposes. If you prefer not to be recorded, please take appropriate measures such as turning off your camera and refraining from speaking during the session. There will be time for discussion at the end, at which point the recording will be turned off.

AuSM LGBTQIA Support Group
2026-03-12 18:30 - 20:00 | Virtual Event
Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder who identify as LGBTQIA gather to discuss topics related to the intersection of autism and gender/sexuality. This group is held virtually only.

Saturday Fun/Respite Day
2026-03-14 13:00 - 17:00 | Laura Baker Services Association, 211 Oak Street, Northfield, MN, 55053
TIME FOR RESPITE AND SOCIAL INTERACTION
A monthly program for families who care for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Adults and children ages 5 and above with special needs who live at home with their families are welcome to join LBSA on the second Saturday of the month for crafts, games, outdoor activities, and snacks. Sign-up on the LBSA website, https://www.laurabaker.org/services/family-support/
The events are designed to provide a few hours of respite for caregivers and social interaction for participants. Pre-registration is required. Families must complete an enrollment medical form prior to the event. $20 per person fee is charged for each event; fee waivers are available for those that qualify.

See Me Neurodiverse support meeting
2026-03-18 19:00 - 20:30 | See Me Neurodiverse, 6000 McColl Drive, Savage, MN, 55378
This is a support meeting for the parents and caregivers of the neurodiverse to share our journeys together and help spread our wealth of resources to the community!
See Me’s main event that we host is a Family/Caregiver Support Meeting. We meet for an in-person support group on the first Thursday and the third Wednesday of every month.
These meetings provide a safe space for parents/guardians/anyone who needs additional support while caring for neurodiverse children. Our mission for this support group is to connect, share, and support one another on our journey.

Understanding the Medical and Biological Aspects of Autism
2026-03-19 09:30 - 12:00 | Virtual Event
This interdisciplinary learning session brings together clinicians and researchers from Children’s Hospital Minnesota to offer a clear, evidence-based overview of the medical and biological aspects of autism. Designed for both professionals and individuals with a personal interest, the session will review accepted and emerging research on causes and genetic heritability, common co-occurring conditions, neurology, sleep, and relevant approaches to medical management. Grounded in respect and curiosity, the core purpose of the session is to address and reduce misinformation about autism—without judgment—by sharing what is known, what is still being studied, and how this knowledge can support informed understanding, care, and conversation.

BIPOC Parents of Children with Autism Support Group
2026-03-19 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual Event
BIPOC parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder gather to discuss challenges, triumphs, and strategies for support. This group is welcome to all parents and caregivers of kids with disabilities who identify as black, indigenous, and people of color.

AuSM Family Members of Adults on the Spectrum Support Group
2026-03-19 18:30 - 20:00 | Virtual Event
Parents, caregivers, and other family members of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (18+) gather to discuss challenges, triumphs, and strategies for support. This group is held virtually only.

Sensory Friendly Saturday, Bell Museum
2026-03-21 08:00 - 10:00 | Bell Museum, St. Paul, Minnesota
Sensory Friendly Visits

The quietest time to visit the museum is late afternoon, when we have fewer visitors and our space is generally uncrowded. Be sure to check out the items you can borrow at the museum below!
Sensory friendly resources
Visitors are welcome to check out additional resources like our quiet spaces. You can borrow a sensory pack with tools such as visual timers, weighted lap pads, and hearing protection if it helps make the visit more enjoyable, and a social narrative is available for download to prepare for your visit. (Note, this is currently not accurate with COVID-19 procedures. Check out this general social narrative from the Autism Society of Minnesota). Read more about the museum’s other accessibility resources here.
Sensory Friendly Saturday
Prepare for your visit to Sensory Friendly Saturday with a short video – click here to watch.

bellinfo@umn.edu
612.626-9660
