Children's Museum to hold Sensory Friendly Day

Grant Manier, a 16-year-old autistic author-speaker, eco impressionist and Houstonian, will host a hands-on art workshop at the Houston Children's Museum for Sensory Friendly Day.

The Children's Museum of Houston will host its first sensory-exclusive event for children with autism from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, April 9.

The event is sponsored by Mogas Industries and costs $9 per individual. Sensory-friendly activities will be held throughout the day, including a hands-on art workshop hosted by Grant Manier, a 16-year-old autistic author-speaker, eco impressionist and Houstonian.

This first-ever Sensory Friendly Day will allow children with autism to explore the museum in their own way and time, will provide a comfortable and accepting environment as well as allow parents to make connections with other families. CMH's doors will be closed to the public on this day.

There will be no music, and sound-reducing headphones will also be available.

Manier has been honored with awards for his renowned advocacy for autism and other special needs, including the 2012 Houston Mayor's Student Volunteer Award. Manier's workshop will be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and focus on making "coolages."

The Children's Museum is located at 1500 Binz. Events, activities and times are subject to change.

Reservations are required. To RSVP, contact Lydia Dungus at 713-535-7288 or email ldungus@cmhouston.org.