Every day Liberty Science Center features experiences for guests of all ages and stages of learning. We strive to inspire guests to take a closer look at the world around them and to take informed action that strengthens their communities.

When Patrick Murphy, an 11-year-old boy with autism, submitted his winning entry for the “Earth Saving Super Powers” contest, the Center’s staff was inspired by his answer to the question of how to help save our planet. Seeing that the unexpected recipient of the award had thought “out of the box” inspired the Center to do the same.

After many years of positive feedback regarding the accessibility of the Science Center’s exhibits, the staff began to wonder what could be done to make a day at the Center even more enriching to those with special needs. An advisory team was formed including special education teachers, healthcare professionals, museum staffers, and parents of special needs children. The Science Center also partnered with the team at Exceptional Parent (EP) magazine - a 39-year-old journal that provides information and education to families of children and adults with disabilities and special needs as well as the physicians, allied health care professionals, educators, and caregivers involved in their care and development. Through Liberty Science Center and EP’s collaboration the Center is creating a day of learning about the world through science for those with special needs and the family and caregivers that love them.

“As part of its commitment to all learners at all ages and stages of learning, Liberty Science Center is proud to offer this free day to special students and their parents and caregivers. Science inspiration comes from remarkable moments, and we look forward to working with these students to help them become inspired about the world around them,” said Dr. Emlyn Koster, President and CEO of Liberty Science Center.

Joseph Valenzano, President and CEO of EP Global Communications, Inc. states “Benjamin Franklin once said ‘Tell me and I forget.  Teach me and I remember.  Involve me and I learn’.  I think what we are trying to do on March 2^nd together with the wonderful folks at the Liberty Science Center is open the door to knowledge for children and young adults with disabilities and special health care needs to experience first hand the wonders of science and the opportunities that learning and education provide, not just for the able-bodied but for the differently-abled as well.”

There will be live science demonstrations, theater presentations, and increased staff and volunteers who will be trained how to react to potential problems or needs. Sensitivity training will be offered by professionals from the NYU Department of Psychiatry. All of these factors will contribute to a more enhanced experience for the students, teachers, parents and caregivers.

EP Global Communications, Inc., parent company of Exceptional Parent

(EP) magazine, is a 39-year-old, award-winning, multi-faceted publishing and communications company, which provides timely and indispensable resources and information to families and professionals caring for the needs of children and adults with disabilities.

Dedicated to providing transformative experiences that connect schools and society with science and technology, Liberty Science Center is the New Jersey-New York City region's largest education resource. Motivated by an innovative philosophy and enabled by a $109 million expansion and renewal, Liberty Science Center is bringing the excitement of science to students, educators, families and adults in engaging new ways and establishing a progressive benchmark for the science center field. Visit www.lsc.org to learn more about Liberty Science Center, located in Liberty State Park, Jersey City, NJ.