Heidi's Family Playdate

Q  What is Heidi’s Family Playdate?

Heidi’s Family Playdate is a joyful celebration hosted by Feeding Matters as part of our 20th Anniversary. It’s a relaxed, inclusive morning designed for families to connect, play, and explore together with activities thoughtfully planned to be fun and welcoming for children of all abilities.

The event is named in honor of Heidi, whose son’s story has been central to Feeding Matters' mission.

Q  When and where is the event?

Date: Friday, October 9, 2026

Time: 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM

Location: Ability 360, Phoenix, AZ

Ability 360 is a fully accessible facility. Parking, ramps, and accessible restrooms are available on site.

Q  Who is this event for?

This event is for families, especially those connected to the pediatric feeding disorder community. Children of all ages and abilities are warmly welcome. Whether your child thrives in busy environments or needs a gentler pace, we’ve designed the morning with every child in mind.

Adults attending without children are also welcome. We’d love to celebrate with you.

Q  What should we wear?

Come dressed comfortably! There will be art stations and face painting, so clothes you don’t mind getting a little colorful are a great idea. We recommend layers since indoor temperatures can vary.

Q  Is there parking available?

Yes! Ability 360 has free on-site parking with accessible spaces available. We recommend arriving a few minutes early to get settled before activities begin at 9:30 AM.

Tickets & registration

Q  How much does it cost?

Tickets are $15 per family of up to 4 people (any combination of adults and children).

If your family has more than 4 members, please reach out to us directly and we’ll be happy to make arrangements.

Q  How do I register?

You can register through our online registration form. You’ll be asked to provide contact information for the adults attending, your children’s names and ages, any support needs or accommodations, allergy information, and to agree to our liability waiver and photo consent.

Payment of $15 is collected at the time of registration.

Q  Can I register at the door?

We strongly encourage pre-registration so we can plan activities and accommodations for every family. Walk-ins may be accommodated depending on capacity, but we can’t guarantee a spot without advance registration.

Q  What is your refund policy?

We understand life with kids is unpredictable! Please contact us if something comes up and we’ll do our best to work with you. Reach out to us at least 24 hours before the event if you need to cancel.

Accessibility & support

Q  Is this event accessible for children with disabilities?

Absolutely as this is a core part of who we are. Ability 360 is a fully accessible venue, and all of our activities are designed to be inclusive and adaptable. Whether your child uses a wheelchair, has sensory sensitivities, communicates differently, or experiences the world in their own unique way, they are wholeheartedly welcome here.

When you register, you’ll have the opportunity to share your child’s support needs so we can prepare for your family specifically.

Q  Will there be a quiet space available?

Yes. We know that busy events can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for children with sensory sensitivities. A designated quiet area will be available throughout the morning where children and families can take a break, decompress, and recharge at any time.

Q  Will my child with feeding differences feel included?

Yes, as this is especially close to our hearts. Feeding Matters exists to support families navigating pediatric feeding disorders. No food will be served at this event, which means there’s no pressure around mealtimes or eating. Water will be available for everyone.

Every activity — music, art, sensory play, and story time is designed to celebrate children as they are, in their own way.

Q  Can I share accommodations requests in advance?

Please do! The registration form includes a field for support needs and accommodations for each child. The more you share, the better we can prepare. You’re also welcome to contact us directly before the event with any questions or needs.

Activities

Q  What activities will be available?

We have a wonderful morning planned! Activities include:

• Live music: The Tetra String Quartet will perform, and children will have interactive time to explore and touch the instruments up close.
• Face painting: Our face painter loves working with kids at their own comfort level. No pressure. Watching is just as fun!
• Art station: Color your own Popsicle
• Sensory & Lego stations: Hands-on exploration designed with sensory-friendly play in mind.
• Storytime: A live reading of Feeding Matters’ children’s book, In My Own Way.

Q  Does my child have to participate in everything?

Not at all. Every activity is completely optional. Your child can jump into everything, dip in and out, watch from a distance, or simply explore the space at their own pace.

Q  What is the Tetra String Quartet?

The Tetra String Quartet is an Arizona nonprofit organization that serves the community and empowers the next generation through performing and teaching chamber music.  Think violin, viola, and cello. Tetra performs with the goal of connecting with all audiences. Their performance will be gentle and family-friendly, and children will have a chance to get up close, see the instruments, and even touch them with guidance from the musicians. It’s a wonderful sensory and musical experience for curious little ones and adults.

Q  What is “In My Own Way”?

In My Own Way is a children’s book published by Feeding Matters that celebrates children who experience the world differently. The live reading is a gentle, inclusive story time moment for the whole family.

Q  Will there be balloons?

Yes! We’ll have balloons available and children are welcome to take one home. If your child has a latex sensitivity, please note this on your registration form and let a staff member know when you arrive — we want everyone to be comfortable.

If your child should not be near balloons due to a latex allergy, please indicate this on the registration form under allergies and sensitivities.

Safety & health

Q  Does a parent or guardian need to stay?

Yes, we ask that at least one adult remain with their child(ren) for the full duration of the event. This is both for your child’s safety and so that you can share in the fun together. This is a family event, after all!

Q  Will food be served?

No food will be served at this event. We will have water available for both adults and children throughout the morning. If your child needs snacks, you are welcome to bring something from home that is allergen friendly.

Q  Will photos be taken at the event?

Photos and videos may be taken at the event for use in Feeding Matters’ materials, including social media and print. During registration, you’ll indicate your photo preference. Opting out has absolutely no impact on your family’s welcome or experience.

If your preference changes on the day, just let a staff member know and we’ll make sure to respect your wishes.

Q  What if my child needs to leave early?

No problem at all. You are welcome to come and go as works best for your family. There’s no obligation to stay for the full 90 minutes.