Hopebridge Recognizes Autism-Friendly Resources with Stamp of Approval

Program Identifies Inclusive Spaces and Skill-Building Products for Autism Families

Finding a place where your child feels safe, understood and welcome can be a challenge for autism families. Whether it’s an overwhelming sensory environment, a lack of staff awareness, or the fear of judgment from others, venturing into public spaces isn’t always easy.

That’s why we launched the Hopebridge Stamp of Approval. This special recognition awards businesses, products, services and other community resources that go above and beyond to support individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and differing abilities.

“With the Stamp of Approval, our goal is to help families feel more confident in identifying welcoming spaces and trusted products that will make life a little easier and a lot more enjoyable,” said Hopebridge Founder and Head of Clinical Strategy Kim Strunk.

What Does it Mean to Receive the Hopebridge Stamp of Approval?

The Hopebridge Stamp of Approval highlights businesses and products that have demonstrated excellence in inclusivity and advocacy for the autism community. From sensory-friendly entertainment to clinician-approved products, this designation helps families easily discover places that understand and support their needs.

When you see the Hopebridge Stamp of Approval, you can trust that the Hopebridge team has evaluated the place or product for:

• Sensory-friendly and autism-inclusive features,
• A welcoming and understanding environment where children and caregivers don’t feel judged,
• A sense of community where children and families feel at home,
• Developmental benefits and effectiveness, as determined by Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBA), occupational therapists and/or speech-language pathologists

Celebrating Hopebridge’s Newest Stamp of Approval Recipient: We Rock the Spectrum in Carmel, IN

“At Hopebridge, we want to ensure families have access to inclusive, judgment-free spaces where their children can thrive. The Stamp of Approval makes it easier to find businesses and products that align with these values,” Hopebridge Chief Clinical Officer Jana Sarno.

The latest recipient of the Hopebridge Stamp of Approval does exactly that. We Rock the Spectrum in Carmel, Indiana is a sensory-friendly indoor play space is dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive environment where all children can have fun while developing important skills.

Why we love We Rock the Spectrum:

• Open to all: Everyone is welcome to play, whether they have autism, another developmental disorder or are neurotypical.
• Occupational therapy-inspired play areas: Similar to the OT gyms our Hopebridge centers, this indoor playground features engaging spaces designed to support motor development and socialization.
• Sensory-friendly equipment: Swings, a trampoline, a zip line, and climbing ropes provide exciting play opportunities that also aid in sensory regulation.
• Creative and imaginative play: Pretend play doesn’t take a back seat at We Rock the Spectrum. A toy hospital, restaurant and even mini fitness area encourage imaginary play, plus a craft corner to engage their artistic side.
• Calming room: Children who need a break – or just want a change of pace – will enjoy the calming room, which features lower light, special sitting spaces and other highlights aimed at relaxing the senses. Although it’s outside of the calming room, a large aquarium often calms and catches the eyes of visitors.
• ABA-friendly space: Some families who receive in-home therapy choose to have their therapist conduct sessions here for additional skill-building in a different, interactive environment.

Help Us Find More Autism-Friendly Businesses

We Rock the Spectrum in Hamilton County is just one of numerous businesses and products that already have Hopebridge’s Stamp of Approval, from language-building podcasts to toys that encourage development.

We want to recognize even more organizations that go above and beyond for the autism community. If you know a place that provides an inclusive and supportive environment, nominate it for the Hopebridge Stamp of Approval! We are currently accepting nominations for businesses across the country, including restaurants, libraries, salons, dental offices and other community spaces.

To nominate a local resource that has made an impact on your family or the autism community, please fill out the form at the bottom of the Stamp of Approval page on the Hopebridge website.

Find More Autism Support at Hopebridge

The Hopebridge Stamp of Approval is more than just a designation—it’s a movement toward greater inclusivity and understanding. We’re excited to continue partnering with businesses that prioritize the needs of all individuals and create spaces where every family can feel at home.

Our mission doesn’t stop there, though. We aim to make quality care – and a fulfilling, independent life – more accessible to all children and families. Whether you’re looking for autism testing, applied behavior analysis (ABA therapy), speech therapy or occupational therapy, Hopebridge is here for you. Fill out our contact form at hopebridge.com/contact to find a Hopebridge center near you.

 

The Stamp of Approval offers families suggested businesses, product and services, but Hopebridge works independently from these organizations and still recommends individuals personally review them to make sure they are the right fit for their child and family. All resources that hold the Stamp of Approval receive continuous review from Hopebridge, which reserves the right to remove it if practices show it is no longer in alignment with our mission.

*Informed consent was obtained from the participants in this article. This information should not be captured and reused without express permission from Hopebridge, LLC.