Youth With Special Needs Reconnect At Carnival In Livingston

LIVINGSTON, NJ — Clowns on stilts juggled. Animals and humans mingled. And youth with special needs from across Essex County got a chance for some well-deserved socialization at a “Carnival Extravaganza” in Livingston.

LifeTown, a unique complex dedicated to helping individuals with special needs adapt to everyday activities, recently hosted a sensory-inclusive carnival for local families in an attempt to help the community reconnect (see photo gallery above).

While many groups have been affected by isolation during the coronavirus pandemic, families of children with special needs have been especially impacted, according to Friendship Circle New Jersey, which runs LifeTown.

And a good, old-fashioned carnival was just what the doctor ordered.

Last week’s accessible carnival offered a range of activities, including pony rides, a petting zoo, games, clowns and entertainers, inflatables and more.

“This could not come at a better time as many children and teens with special needs have been isolated since the start of the pandemic and the need to feel supported and celebrated is more important than ever,” the nonprofit said.

• See related article: Replica 'Main Street' In Livingston Empowers Special Needs Youth
• See related article: Lifetown In Livingston Earns 'Good Neighbor' Award (VIDEO)

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