Sensory Island Opens In Deer Park, Creating Safe Space For Kids With Autism

DEER PARK, NY — A new sensory-friendly space designed to support children with autism and other developmental needs has opened at Tanger Outlets Deer Park.

Sensory Island, a new facility aimed at providing a calm, inclusive environment for children of all abilities, held a ribbon-cutting on April 2.

The space was created by Dr. Ralu Onubogu, who was inspired to develop the concept after navigating her son’s education following his autism diagnosis. While Sensory Island was designed with children on the autism spectrum in mind, it is open to all children.

According to its mission, Sensory Island aims to “create a calm, predictable, and welcoming environment where children can engage in sensory play, support regulation, build confidence, and feel safe in their bodies.”

The facility features sensory motor equipment to support movement and balance, interactive games designed to encourage connection, and designated quiet areas intended to promote relaxation and comfort.

Several local leaders, including John Kennedy, Tom Donnelly, Terence McSweeny, and Suffolk County Legislator Leslie Kennedy, attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

Kennedy, who has more than 30 years of experience as a nurse, said the space fills an important need in the community.

“While there is no such thing as a perfect world, Sensory Island is a good start,” Kennedy said. “It is a place where both neurodivergent children and neurotypical children can interact, play, communicate, and become comfortable with each other. The physical, occupational, and speech therapy that the children will receive is incredible and really does have a positive, lasting impact.”