Resources for Parents, Children & Siblings
Travel and Accessibility
Dublin Airport:
• Provides sensory rooms for families traveling with children with additional needs.
• “Sunflower Lanyard” system: discreetly identifies individuals with hidden disabilities so staff can offer assistance.
• Fast-track security options are available for families requiring extra time.
Aer Lingus:
• Offers a “Try Before You Fly” program where families can visit the airport and aircraft in advance to familiarize children with the travel experience.
• Assistance is available for boarding and during flights.
Support Groups
Snowflakes Autism Support:
• Offers support meetings, sibling groups, and family events.
• Provides workshops and activities for children and parents.
Jump Autism Support:
• Facilitates peer support for families.
• Focuses on creating inclusive opportunities for children with autism.
Embrace Autism:
• Hosts regular support meetings at Grace Park Educate Together National School.
• Highly recommended by parents for its resources and emotional support.
Counselling and Therapy
Samantha Judge:
• A counselor specializing in supporting parents of children with additional needs.
Emer O’Reilly Play Therapist:
• Provides therapy for children and supports siblings of children with autism.
Support for Siblings
Snowflake Sibling Support Group:
• Creates a space for siblings to connect and share their experiences.
Sib’s Hop Workshops:
• Fun and supportive workshops tailored for siblings of children with additional needs.
Activities and Attractions
Dublin Zoo:
• Special needs concession prices.
• Offers quiet times during off-peak hours to support families.
Cinemas:
• Autism-friendly screenings feature dimmed lights, lower volume, and freedom for children to move around.
• Carers often go free (check with your local cinema).
Emerald Park, Ashbourne, Co. Meath:
• Offers Ride Assistance Passes for individuals with additional needs to reduce queuing time.
• Dedicated quiet zones available around the park.
Hairdressing Services
Kerry O’Neill:
• Hairdresser specializing in cutting hair for children with additional needs.
• Offers home visits for a more comfortable experience.
Sensory Cuts (Inchicore, Dublin 8):
• A sensory barber with a fully adapted environment.
• Booking in advance is required via their Instagram page.
The Master Barber, Sanctuary:
• “Sensory Sundays” with a calm and supportive atmosphere for children.
Sports and Hobbies
Spectrum Fitness:
• Offers adapted fitness programs for children with autism.
• Provides a supportive environment that emphasizes sensory awareness and fitness.
National Aquatic Centre:
• Runs autism-friendly swims with reduced noise levels and smaller group sizes.
Equine Therapy:
• Fettercairn Youth Horse Project: Offers camps and riding lessons tailored for children with autism.
• Benefits include building confidence, sensory regulation, and social skills.
Sensory and Play Groups
Sensory Play Pals:
• A parent-led group based at Grace Park Educate Together National School.
Messy Fun Dublin:
• Offers sensory play activities that engage children in fun, tactile experiences.
