Cozy Cocoa & Connection Brings a Sensory-Friendly Winter Event to Springdale
Time to head to the JB Hunt Nature Center this weekend for a winter afternoon with hot cocoa, crafts, and sensory activities. Cozy Cocoa & Connection is happening Saturday afternoon with winter activities designed to work at any pace. Inclusive Connections NWA and Empowered Therapy Collective created this neurodivergent-friendly event for kids and families, building sensory supports right into the plan from the start.
THE DEETS
📅 Saturday, January 10, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
📍 J.B. and Johnelle Hunt Family Ozark Highlands Nature Center | 3400 N 40th St, Springdale, AR 72762
📧 [email protected] | 918-961-8283
What You’ll Find
The hot cocoa bar has dye-free sprinkles plus sugar-free and dairy-free options. Kids can play with winter sensory bins, make seasonal crafts, and join board games with other families. There’s a snowball toss for active play and a community banner where everyone can add their contribution.
Need a break? The sensory chill zone has bean bag chairs, noise-reducing headphones, fidgets, and winter books. The whole space uses soft lighting and low-key background music. Snap some photos at the photo booth before you leave.
How It Works
Every activity is optional. Visual schedules and labeled stations help you navigate the event, and communication supports are available if you need them. Move through at your own speed and skip whatever doesn’t work for your family.
The organizers created this event specifically for neurodivergent kids and families who want a space where sensory needs are built into the plan, not an afterthought. The nature center gives you indoor activities with outdoor views.
