Everyone Is Special
A museum initiative centered on access, belonging, and meaningful learning for all.
Everyone Is Special (EIS) is Amazement Square’s commitment to ensuring hands-on learning experiences are accessible, welcoming, and engaging for visitors of all abilities—at the Museum, in schools, and throughout our community.
The Everyone Is Special initiative expands Amazement Square’s educational mission by creating inclusive museum experiences for children with diverse learning needs, their siblings, caregivers, and educators. Through adaptive programming, school partnerships, and sensory-friendly community events, EIS removes barriers to participation and fosters creativity, curiosity, and connection for learners of all ages.
IN SCHOOL & SPECIAL EDUCATION PROGRAMS
As part of the Everyone Is Special initiative, Amazement Square partners with schools and special education programs to deliver inclusive, hands-on learning experiences designed to meet students where they are.
Programming is developed in collaboration with educators and tailored to classroom needs, learning goals, and student abilities.
LAUREL Amazing Explorers
Amazing Explorers is a school-wide program designed to engage and inspire students through interdisciplinary learning experiences rooted in art, music, and STEAM. Each session supports creativity, communication, and academic growth while offering hands-on opportunities often unavailable in traditional elective settings.
In addition to in-school programming, Amazing Explorers provides field trip experiences to Amazement Square for students who may otherwise lack the resources or opportunity to visit the Museum.
Programming for Special Education Classrooms
Through long-standing partnerships with Lynchburg City Schools and regional programs, Amazement Square provides adaptive workshops and museum visits for students ages 4–21 with physical, cognitive, and developmental disabilities.
Programs are customized to student needs and support skill development while helping teachers and students build portfolios aligned with the Virginia Alternative Assessment Program.
LOOP Run
The LOOP Run is an inclusive community event celebrating individuals with disabilities while promoting movement, visibility, and connection. Amazement Square’s inaugural LOOP Run was made possible through the support of volunteers and community partners, including universities, nonprofits, and local organizations.
Everyone Is Special Children’s Holiday Festival
This annual, sensory-friendly holiday event offers families a festive and comfortable museum experience. Activities include ornament making, sock skating, photos with Santa, museum exploration, and seasonal treats.
Registration is required and attendance is limited to ensure a supportive environment for all participants.
VSA Museum Access for Kids Program
In partnership with the Kennedy Center’s VSA program, Amazement Square delivers arts-based learning experiences to students with disabilities who may not otherwise have access to arts education.
Through classroom-based programming, students explore museum learning, creativity, and self-expression while engaging with professional teaching artists and educators.
The artwork below reflects the creativity, curiosity, and confidence students build through the Amazing Explorers program. Each piece represents hands-on learning in action—where imagination, expression, and discovery come together.
Enhancing the Museum Experience
To guide the continued growth of the Everyone Is Special initiative, Amazement Square established a Community Advisory Committee. The committee provides insight and feedback to ensure programs reflect the needs of the autism and disability communities across Virginia.
If you would like to share feedback or are interested in joining the Everyone Is Special Advisory Committee, please email heather@amazementsquare.org.
Everyone is Special is made possible in part by generous grants from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, Centra Health, and the Al Stroobants Foundation
Resources & Supports
A curated list of community organizations and support resources for families and educators.