12 sensory-friendly locations in Canberra for your little ones
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School holidays are around the corner, and every child deserves to have a place to go and explore.
So, we have compiled a list of places that have Quiet Hours, or special accommodations for sensory sensitivity.
Institutions
The Mint
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The Mint offers Quiet Mornings; however, these happen every few months – so you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled on the website and social media for the next one!
62-114 Denison Street, Deakin | More information here.
National Dinosaur Museum
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At the National Dinosaur Museum, Quiet Hours take place on the first Tuesday of every month, between 3 pm and 5 pm. However, it’s worth noting that Quiet Hours are not offered during ACT and NSW holiday periods.
6 Gold Creek Road, Nicholls | More information here.
Questacon
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At Questacon, noise cancelling headphones are available from the Information Desk, and wrist bands are also available to write contact details on. Questacon does not have dedicated quiet time, however it is quieter between:
- 3 pm and 5 pm on weekdays during ACT school term.
- Monday and Friday afternoons during ACT school term.
- During February.
King Edward Terrace, Parkes | More information here.
The National Museum of Australia
They have a Quiet Hour in their Discovery Centre from 3.30pm to 4.45pm on the first Tuesday of the month, with reduced noise and sensory experiences. Tickets are essential, as sessions sell out fast!
Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula | More information here.
The National Gallery of Australia
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The gallery has Sensory Sundays on the first Sunday of every month from 3.30pm to 5pm. Noise cancelling headphones are also available. The event is free, but bookings are essential.
Parkes Place East, Parkes | More information here.
Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House
MOAD does not have dedicated Quiet Times, however, the museum is quietest from 9am to 10am and 3 pm to 5 pm on weekdays. The HiveMind lounge is usually quiet and patrons can also ask staff for a quiet place.
18 King George Terrace, Parkes | More information here.
Shops
Coles
Coles offers Quiet Hours on Tuesdays between 10.30a m and 11.30 am, at these locations:
- Amaroo
- Chisholm
- Manuka
- Tuggeranong
- Phillip
Woolworths
Woolworths offers Quiet Hours on Tuesdays between 10.30am and 11.30 am, at these locations:
- Tuggeranong
- Calwell
- Majura Park
- Belconnen
- Cooleman Court
The Lego Store
The Lego Store in the Canberra Centre offers a Quiet Hour once a month between 10.30am to 11.30am. The next Quiet Hours are on Tuesday 17 October.
Shop CG18-21/148 Bunda Street, Canberra | More information here.
Kmart
The Kmart store in Gungahlin now has Quiet Hours! They take place every Wednesday between 3.30pm and 5.30pm.
33 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin | More information here.
Other locations
Handmade Canberra
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On Sunday 29 October between 9 am and 10 am, the market will reduce sensory stimuli and create a more relaxed atmosphere.
Exhibition Park, Canberra (EPIC) | More information here.
Canberra Indoor Rock Climbing
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They offer sporadic early access mornings from 9 am to 10 am, with the most recent event coming up on Sunday 22 October. You will need to stay tuned to social media to find out for upcoming ones, prices are reduced to $15 for these events. However, if you want to avoid the crowds hop onto their weekly schedule to find the quietest time!
38-40 Essington Street, Mitchell | More information here.
