Shell Jones of Michigan began noticing odd behavior from her son, Duane, at 10 months. By age 2, Duane had been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Unable to find a suitable place for him to enjoy himself, Jones came up with the Play Place for Autistic Children.
Chuck E. Cheese is one of Duane’s favorite places to play. There is even a Teletubbie toy in the toddler zone that he loves to sit on. However, at age 10, he is too old and physically too big to play there. Jones admits that she hasn’t found a place for her son to play comfortably and often faults herself.
“I found that there was no place for me to take him without getting stares and whispers, and us being made to feel uncomfortable,” she said.
In response, Shell is looking to create an environment that would combine playing and learning for families of children with ASD, called the Play Place for Autistic Children. While her initial intent was to build a small 3,000 to 4,000 square foot space, her plans now involve a facility that includes a carousel, a computer center and calming centers to name a few features.
“Within 18 months, I would like to see it totally developed into what I envision as the Disney World for children with autism,” said Shell, adding that they are currently in the process of working on a crucial variance. “It will be a fantasy world.”
Her 501 (c)(3) foundation has been raising funds along with her and her husband putting their own money towards it as well. Since beginning this project, she’s found working on Duane’s behalf to be a natural and meaningful experience. It’s one that has brought her closer to her son and other families who have faced the same hardships with their autistic children.
Read more on her plans via the Huffington Post and visit her website to see how you can get involved.
BMWK–Those of you who have experience with autistic children, do you find it hard to find a place where they are accepted and comfortable? Are there any places like this project in your area?