If you’re a parent of a child with special needs, you know how challenging it can be to find places where children of all abilities can learn, play, socialize, and build confidence. But you don’t have to look far: LifeTown, a 53,000-square-foot, fully inclusive and accessible center in Livingston, NJ, is where kids with special needs can practice everyday life skills in a fun, supportive environment and spend time with peers. From its simulated town and inclusive indoor play space to therapeutic programs and plenty of opportunities to make friends and feel included, LifeTown—a partner of RWJ Barnabas Health—is where all kids can grow and have fun. Keep reading to discover more about LifeTown’s programs and offerings. (featured photo credit: NJ MOM)

LifeTown: Where Inclusive Fun Builds Skills

lifetown shoprite nj mom — *Enter Life Village and build real-world skills at LifeTown. Photo Credit: NJ MOM*

Building real-world life skills at The LifeTown Village

Moms of special-needs kids know it’s sometimes hard to teach independence and practice real-life skills you need every day. At LifeTown, though, kids can learn to build on those skills in the LifeTown Village, where a miniature downtown mimics the real world, with sidewalks, traffic lights, streets, and businesses just like you’d find outside the facility. The environment is purposely supportive and encouraging, letting kids practice without the anxiety or stress of a real-world situation. As kids make their way around the 11,000-square-foot town, they can withdraw “money” from the bank, shop for groceries at ShopRite, visit a pet store, stop at an ice cream stand, go to the movie theater, and learn to look both ways as they safely cross the street at the traffic light. There’s also a doctor’s office and a salon, so kids can feel more prepared for what to expect in those environments the next time they visit the real counterparts. Other village facilities that are available through organized programs include a Jets-sponsored indoor football field where kids can play in a non-competitive, adaptive environment; a zero-entry heated saltwater pool for splash sessions; and a three-lane bowling alley with wheelchair-friendly ramps, bumpers, and special acoustics to reduce noise.

lifetown trampoline nj mom — *LifeTown’s interactive, inclusive play areas let kids of all abilities have fun. Photo Credit: NJ MOM*

Spend time at the indoor playground

Want your child to make friends? Head to the play areas, where kids can build communication and socialization skills while having fun. Climb and slide in the indoor playground, shoot baskets in the gym, walk on a musical staircase, dig and explore textures in the sand room, and get creative in the art room. Kids can also take a spin on the trikes and bikes and learn how to ride in a safe setting. And the fun doesn’t have to be just for your special needs child—booking a session for Family Fun Open Play or LifeTown Shoppes Experience on select weekdays and Sundays lets kids of all abilities join in, while parents hang and meet up in the Coffee Shop.

Lifetown bowling nj mom — *Get ready to knock some pins down at LifeTown Bowling. Photo Credit: NJ MOM*

FAQs About LifeTown

Can anyone visit LifeTown?

Yes, LifeTown has opportunities for everyone to enjoy the facilities, but it’s not a walk-in play center. You can register for Family Fun Open Play days and LifeTown Shoppes Experience days, each with advance registration and admission fees, and both are open to the general public. Children must be accompanied and supervised by a parent or guardian during public sessions.

What ages is LifeTown for?

LifeTown has special needs programs for all ages, from toddlers to adults. Family Fun Open Play Days are available for kids ages 0-10.

Do I need to register before visiting?

Yes, LifeTown requires you to register all visits and programs before you visit.

Do parents need to stay with their children at LifeTown?

During public Family Fun and Shoppes sessions, parents or guardians need to stay on the premises. For some therapeutic programs for special needs, requirements vary by program.

Where can families register for LifeTown programs?

You can find programs, schedules, and registration on LifeTown’s website. You can also call LifeTown at 973-251-0200 for additional information.

To learn more about LifeTown, visit their website, Facebook page, and YouTube.

LifeTown
10 Microlab Road
Livingston, NJ 07039

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