The Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department is introducing a fresh lineup of inclusive and adaptive recreation experiences known as the Adaptive and Inclusive Recreation (AIR) programs. These initiatives are tailored to engage and cater to youth with disabilities or specific sensory requirements.

Individuals with disabilities are enthusiastically encouraged to partake in the diverse range of recreational activities provided by Iowa City Parks and Recreation. Nonetheless, it’s acknowledged that certain events might be overwhelming for those with sensory sensitivities.

To address this, the Recreation Division is unveiling two novel gatherings: Sensory Saturdays and Sensory Tot Time. Starting from October 4, 2023, every Wednesday between 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., you’re invited to bring your little ones to Mercer Park Aquatic Center for an enriching Sensory Tot Time experience. The inaugural Sensory Saturdays event will take place on September 9, 2023.

These fresh sensory-focused events complement the array of existing adult and youth programs already offered by Iowa City Parks and Recreation. Overall, these new classes from Iowa City’s Parks and Rec have been met with positivity from Iowans and shows an inclusive addition to their current roster of activities.