Care for Cooped Up Parents: Puzzle Pieces Panel
We Miss You! ❤️ Your Puzzle Pieces Friends
Puzzle Pieces FAQs
What is Puzzle Pieces?
On the second Sunday of each month from 11 to 1, the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center offers free admission to families with children who have autism spectrum disorders. Children play in a safe and understanding environment where the lights and sounds are kept low, a therapy dog and music therapist provide soothing interactions and fun activities are designed just for them.
The Puzzle Pieces program provides opportunities to enjoy family time at the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center in a safe and understanding environment, allows parents to network with one another, and helps families discover new resources available to them. KCDC is not open to the public during this time.
Why Do Kids Need Puzzle Pieces?
Every child deserves rich and diverse museum experiences. Children who have autism spectrum disorders need and enjoy play, but may find some kinds of play difficult. For these children, play is vitally important to learn social skills like communication, observation and imitation (Mastrangelo, 2009). Puzzle Pieces also gives children a chance to practice using their muscles to perform tasks, all while having fun in a supportive environment.
How can my family participate?
Advance registration or sign up is not required. Simply come to the Kansas Children's Discovery Center for an event. Puzzle Pieces events are subject to change, please check this website for the most current information.
Who is Lucy?
Lucy the therapy dog is a beloved Puzzle Pieces volunteer. Lucy is a golden Doodle and certified therapy dog, trained through Loving Paws. She loves children and especially loves to be petted! Lucy lives with her parents and other pets. Lucy and her trainer, Dr. Ximena Garcia, regularly attend Puzzle Pieces.
How is Puzzle Pieces funded?
Puzzle Pieces is provided by generous individuals and businesses. We thank Target and Pediatric Associates for their generous support that allows this program to take place at no cost families. To allow more families to access Puzzle Pieces, donate now.
Who serves on the Advisory Committee for Puzzle Pieces?
- Linda Burgen, MS, BCBA, Capper Foundation, Autism Service Director
- Kristen Dayo, Mathematics Instructional Coach - Whitson Elementary School. Parent of two children, one on the Autism Spectrum.
- Marlene Graber, Topeka Public Schools, Autism Consultant
- Martha Palmer, TARC Inc, Children’s Services Teacher
- Susan Voorhees, PsyD, Private Practice
- Breanne Wasinger, MA, Museum Studies, focusing on integrating special populations into museums.
Learn more about Access Discovery
Medical Warriors
Honors medically fragile children or those battling life-limiting illnesses who need private play time.
Admission Access
Increases access to underserved and low-income families so finances are never a barrier to play.
Play Free
Helps children with incarcerated caregivers get the love and support they need to heal.