At Manatee Lagoon – An FPL Eco-Discovery Center, we are proud to be a certified autism friendly business by the Florida Atlantic University Center for Autism and Related Disabilities. We strive to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all our visitors, including those with autism and their families. To achieve this, we offer sensory kits, sensory-friendly hours, and social narratives to help prepare for a visit to Manatee Lagoon. We also have dedicated quiet spaces available for those who need a break from the stimulation of the environment. Our goal is to provide a positive and enjoyable experience for everyone, and we are committed to making our facilities accessible and accommodating to the needs of our visitors.
SENSORY Friendly Hour
Experience Manatee Lagoon with minimal crowds and a sensory friendly environment. Once a month, we will open one hour early and our exhibit will be modified with low lighting and reduced noise. In an effort to provide the best experience possible, we require registration for each offering as space is limited.
Date: Third Saturday of each month
Time: 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
Who: Individuals with autism, those with sensory sensitivities, and their families
Cost: Free, advanced registration required
SENSORY KITS
Sensory kits are available for checkout at our welcome desk. Each sensory kit is a backpack that contains the following items:
- Sunglasses
- Noise canceling earmuffs
- Fidget toy
- Weighted manatee plushie
PREPARING FOR YOUR VISIT
We look forward to welcoming you to Manatee Lagoon. In addition to the social narratives, we have some helpful information for planning your visit. To learn more about Manatee Lagoon before you visit click here.
- Exploring Manatee Lagoon: My Visual Check List This is a visual checklist and picture cards for you and your children to complete before your trip to Manatee Lagoon.
- Map of Manatee Lagoon: Please download and print our sensory friendly map. We have identified quiet areas at Manatee Lagoon where you and your children can take a break if needed. You can use this as a tool while completing your visual checklist.
- Temperature Variations: The temperature inside our center is kept between 68-71° F, so it can be chilly. Outside Manatee Lagoon’s building can be very sunny and warm. You may want to bring a jacket and sunglasses. To help families and groups prepare for their visit to Manatee Lagoon, we offer three different social narratives. Click on the link below the pictures to read a social narrative before your next trip!
We would love to hear from you! If you have any questions or would like to share your experience at
Manatee Lagoon, please email us at info@visitmanateelagoon.com
