Doing fun things and going to interesting events with your kids is an important part of their childhood, and there’s no shortage of options in Frederick County. For families whose children are disabled or neurodivergent, though, finding events that are fun for everyone can be more difficult.
Fortunately, there are still plenty of events that account for the needs of attendees with disabilities and are fun for everyone. These are a few upcoming ones to look forward to.
Drop-In Classes at the Pediatric Movement Center of Frederick
Throughout the month on Monday through Saturday
Pediatric Movement Center of Frederick | 4640 Wedgewood Blvd. #101-105, Frederick, MD 21703
Across its three locations in Frederick and Hagerstown, Pediatric Movement Center offers many classes for young children that let them move around and play, helping them develop motor skills. These include story times with crafts, basic tumbling classes and swim lessons held at PMC Aquatics in Hagerstown, which all take place in environments made to be accessible to children with disabilities.
Varies by class | pediatricmovementcenter.com/drop-in-events
Adaptive Family Field Day
Oct. 11, 10 a.m.-noon
Rock Creek Recreation Center | 55B West Frederick St., Walkersville, MD 21793
The whole family can compete in fun outdoor games together at this event, which is an Adaptive Recreation program organized by Frederick County Parks and Recreation. From tug-of-war to obstacle courses, these games help competitors to build teamwork and communication skills, and it’s a fun way to get outside before the weather gets too cold.
$20 per family | recreater.com
SibShops
Oct. 11, 1-4 p.m.
The Arc at Market Street | 555 South Market St., Frederick, MD 21701
Siblings of children with disabilities may feel left out or isolated, so this workshop held by The Arc of Frederick County is a great way for them to connect with others in similar situations. Designed for kids ages 8-13 whose siblings have disabilities or are neurodivergent, SibShops helps guide them through important conversations on disability and allyship while leaving plenty of time to enjoy fun crafts and games.
Free | arcfc.org
Abilities Unlimited Homecoming
Oct. 18, 6-8 p.m.
Trinity Recreation Center | 6040 New Design Road, Frederick, MD 21701
Aimed at people of all abilities ages 16 and older, this inclusive homecoming dance is sure to be a night to remember. It’s part of the City of Frederick Department of Parks and Rec’s Abilities Unlimited programming series, which are designed to help people with disabilities socialize, develop life skills and have a good time.
$10 for Frederick residents, $15 for non-residents, free for caregivers | parentresourcecenter.org/events-page/abilities-unlimited-homecoming/
Music with a Mission
Oct. 18, 6-9 p.m.
Vanish | 1009 W Patrick Thru 1065 St., Frederick, MD 21701
This night of music and good food will help raise funds for The Freedom Center’s important work helping people with disabilities who live independently. Headliners Taylor Teasley and Tori Hughes will be performing original songs and taking requests. There will also be plenty of food, a silent auction and raffles. Only 100 tickets will be sold.
$50 | thefreedomcenter-md.org/music-with-a-mission/
