Emergency Preparedness for People with Special Needs is a concern for all of our families, regardless of where we live. Having a plan and the necessary supplies ready for a possible evacuation is especially important and will make any emergency situation less stressful. You are welcome to download and print this important information.

http://www.ganinfo.org/pdf/Emergency Preparedness for People with Special Needs COCA.pdf

The Regional Center of Orange County and the Comfort Connection Family Resource Center have provided GAN with the latest information about programs and services for children with special needs. Use this guide when looking for entertainment opportunities, classes, parks, camps, lessons and facilities both in and near Orange County, CA. On page 2, you will find recommended questions to ask about the services and support available before you engage in the activities. Always contact the resource ahead of time to ensure that the information listed is currently accurate. Please scroll all the way to the end to make sure you see everything listed. You are welcome to print out and share the guide with your families. Click on the link below to view and download it.

http://www.ganinfo.org/pdf/CCFRC-RCOC -Recreation-Resource-Guide-February-2008.pdf

The "escort" of a child with autism is granted free entry. If two adults accompany the child, you may be able to use a "buy one full adult admission, child's admission is free" offer if it is available.

Round trip train rides can be lots of fun for grandchildren. If you are accompanying a child with disabilities, Amtrak will allow a caregiver or shadow to travel free of cost. Take Amtrak to San Juan Capistrano. Have lunch or just visit the near-by petting zoo. Take Amtrak to San Diego and visit the Zoo and/or the Wild Animal Park. Annual passes are relatively inexpensive.

Take walks together in local parks. Feed ducks, explore gardens and enjoy other park features. Check out information about local parks and beaches in our downloadable resources posted onsite at PRESENTATIONS >past, June 5, 2007.

Skirball Cultural Center 2701 North Sepulveda Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90049 Telephone: (310) 440-4500 Noah’s Ark Exhibit -Opening June 26, 2007 Call for ticket information. Inside a floor–to–ceiling wooden ark, filled to the rafters with whimsical animals, you and your family will play, build, climb, explore, collaborate, and more. Conduct a storm, help construct the ark, and bask in the glow of a beautiful rainbow.

At bowling alleys, ask for special gutter bumpers and ramps for balls. This will make bowling easier for grandchildren and more enjoyable for everyone.

Check into tickets for the children’s concert series at the Orange County Performing Arts Center. Forty-five minute concerts are designed for children and afterwards, they provide a hands on opportunity with a featured musical instrument. Noisy children are acceptable.

Call ahead to amusement parks and other public places to inquire about special policies for people with disabilities. Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, Legoland and other places may offer discounted admission and one or more line passes for a caregiver or aide to accompany the child. A physician’s letter or other documentation about your grandchildren’s condition may be required to qualify.