Guide: May IDD-Friendly Activities
Welcome to May 2025 with UESL! This month, we're excited to highlight a variety of inclusive events across San Diego County that celebrate diversity, promote inclusion, and offer opportunities for community engagement. Whether you're interested in adaptive sports, artistic expression, or virtual adventures, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Join us as we explore these enriching activities designed to connect and empower individuals of all abilities.
Your UESL Community Guide for Inclusion + Fun!
FREE Early Start Together: Parent-to-Parent Playdate
A free play date where parents of infants and toddlers with disabilities (or suspected disabilities) connect and build community while their little ones enjoy social time in an inclusive setting.
When: Saturday, May 3, 2025, 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Where: Park de la Cruz Recreation Center, 3901 Landis St., San Diego, CA
More info: Eventbrite + Special Needs Resources
Bipolar Disorder + Neurodevelopmental Disabilities
What: An online seminar exploring the intersection of bipolar disorder and neurodevelopmental disabilities, with expert guidance on support strategies and resources.
When: Tuesday, May 27, 2025 (time as listed by organizer)
Where: Online / 3870 Murphy Canyon Rd, Suite 150, San Diego, CA
More info: Eventbrite
Survivor Benefit Plan, Special Needs Trust and Permanent Dependency
A webinar covering legal and financial planning tools for families of individuals with special needs, focusing on SBP, special needs trusts, and dependency considerations.
When: Wednesday, May 21, 2025 (time as listed by organizer)
Where: Online
More info: Eventbrite
Special Olympics San Diego – Athletics Competition
Volunteers support and encourage athletes with intellectual disabilities in track and field events, helping with equipment, timing, and awards.
When: Saturday, May 3, 2025, 8:00 am – 3:00 pm
Where: San Diego, CA (volunteer check-in via HandsOn San Diego)
More info: HandsOn San Diego
2025 San Diego County | Special Olympics Spring Games
A regional Special Olympics Spring Games featuring competitions in flag football, basketball, and swimming, plus a sensory-friendly Athlete Village with games, music, and giveaways.
When: Saturday, May 17, 2025, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Where: West Hills High School, 8756 Mast Blvd, Santee, CA 92071
More info: SOSC Event Detail
Best Buddies Friendship Walk San Diego
A leading walk supporting inclusion for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), raising funds for local Best Buddies programs.
When: Saturday, May 3, 2025, 8:00 am – 12:00 pm
Where: Balboa Park (6th Ave & Laurel St), San Diego, CA 92101
More info: Best Buddies Walk Info
41st Annual Involved Exceptional Parents Day Conference
A one-day conference and resource fair for parents, caregivers, and professionals serving children with disabilities, featuring workshops, exhibitors, and guest speakers.
When: Saturday, May 17, 2025, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
Where: DoubleTree by Hilton Mission Valley, 7450 Hazard Center Dr, San Diego, CA 92108
More info: Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego
The Art of Autism: A Different Lens
A collaborative exhibition showcasing how neurodivergent artists perceive, create, and contribute through mixed-media works, celebrating autism-inspired creativity.
When: Ongoing April 5 – July 27, 2025; open during museum hours
Where: Oceanside Museum of Art, 704 Pier View Way, Oceanside, CA 92054
More info: The Art of Autism
Sensory Friendly Mornings at San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum
Early Sunday mornings tailored for families with children on the autism spectrum or sensory sensitivities, providing a quieter, more comfortable museum experience.
When: Sunday, May 25, 2025, 9:30 am – 11:30 am
Where: San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum, 320 North Broadway, Escondido, CA 92025
More info: SDCDM Events
Accessibility Mornings at the Fleet Science Center
A monthly sensory-friendly program offering early gallery access and a low-volume documentary screening, designed to accommodate guests with sensory sensitivities.
When: Saturday, May 17, 2025, 9:00 am (early access) with a documentary screening at 10:00 am
Where: Fleet Science Center, 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101
More info: Fleet Science Center
Want to Get Involved + Make a Difference?
We invite you to participate in these enriching events, meet new friends, and experience the joy of inclusion firsthand. Let's make this month one to remember!
