Everyone at Play: Inclusive Family Fun for Kids with Special Needs at Kohl Children’s Museum

If you’re looking for inclusive family events in the Chicago area or a welcoming space for children with special needs, Kohl Children’s Museum in Glenview offers a wonderful program called Everyone at Play. These special afternoons invite families to enjoy the Museum in a calm, supportive environment while it is closed to the general public, giving children the chance to explore, learn, and play at their own pace.

Kohl Children’s Museum is known for its interactive exhibits designed for kids ages birth through eight. With 17 engaging indoor exhibits and two acres of outdoor play areas, the Museum encourages language, motor, social, and cognitive development through hands-on exploration. During Everyone at Play, families of children with special needs have full access to these spaces, along with support from trained staff and volunteers who are there to help guide play experiences. A quiet room is also available for children who may need a sensory break, ensuring every child feels comfortable.

What makes this program even more special is that it is completely free for families of children with special needs. The Museum partners with an outstanding network of community organizations, including Advocate Children’s Hospital, Aspire Chicago, JCFS Chicago, National Lekotek Center, Rainbow Animal Assisted Therapy, and Variety the Children’s Charity of Illinois, to make Everyone at Play possible. Together, they help create meaningful opportunities for families to connect, play, and grow in an inclusive environment.

The next Everyone at Play sessions will be held on Sunday, August 24, 2025, Sunday, September 21, 2025, and Sunday, November 2, 2025, each running from 2 to 5 PM. Advance registration is required to attend.

Learn more on the Kohl Children's Museum web site.