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Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Smiles, care, and a Red Wristband : A Day of Belonging Canobie Lake park

Sometimes, something feels unthinkable. Someone dreams, someone wishes, and someone decides to make it happen. People come together and support the idea — and before you know it, it becomes a reality.

An amusement park usually means thrill, screams, crowds, long lines, chaos, and noise — exactly the kind of environment most of our children struggle with.

We were exploring outdoor activity options, and Canobie Lake Park came up. Many families wanted to try, though they were nervous to go alone. But once we decided to go as a group, everything began to fall into place. A few phone calls and emails later, the park team offered us discounted tickets, red wristbands so kids wouldn’t have to wait in long lines, and even the flexibility to bring our own food. They were incredibly accommodating.


Finally, the date was set: August 3rd Sunday


Even that morning, I wasn’t sure how many would actually show up.

But for the first time, no one dropped out last minute — in fact, two families joined at the last moment. Maybe the excitement gave them courage to take the leap.

In total, 29 families came together and had a beautiful day at the park. There were so many moments of friendship, support, and care. And yes, I’m sure there were moments of meltdowns and chaos too — but those are part of our everyday lives anyway.

Some of our kids went on the rides over and over again. Some never set foot on one — but they walked around and took it all in.

Some spent hours in the waterpark. Others just sat nearby and watched. One grown child explored the whole park on his own, while his mom enjoyed her ice cream — comforted by the fact that she’s not alone on this journey. She has her village.

I’m just so happy our children got a day to enjoy — like everyone else.

I'll write more soon — the good, the bad, and the messy. But for now, I want to stay in this moment of happy smiles, deep gratitude, and the quiet joy of accomplishment. 

The woman, their Guest Service manager who made this possible. 

The bathroom had the supplies for women 

My Fav ride at the park

#InclusionMatters

#AutismCommunity

#SpecialNeedsParenting

#VillageSupport

#NeurodivergentJoy

#EveryChildBelongs

#FamilyDayOut

#MeltdownsAndMagic

#RealLifeRealLove

#ParentingJourney

#TogetherWeThrive

#OurKindOfDay

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