When Carmel, Indiana, mom Emily Hawthorne took her daughter with autism out shopping, she could often feel judgmental looks and anxiety surrounding her girl’s overstimulation. So, Hawthorne set out to build a better shopping experience for kids like her daughter and parents like herself.
Open since December 2025, Hawthorne’s store, The Sensory Shoppe in Carmel, is “a welcoming space where neurodivergent children and adults can explore, learn and thrive through sensory experiences.”
As soon as shoppers enter the store, they experience a calm, softly lit atmosphere and are greeted by warm, welcoming staff members. Children in need of soothing items can find fidget toys and weighted stuffed animals, while teens and adults may be more attracted to calming sprays and therapy dough. The shelves are also stocked with books about anxiety, neurodivergence and mental health. There is truly something for everyone.
The Sensory Shoppe offers classes and events as well. These range from play-based learning activities to networking and discount shopping opportunities for teachers and therapists.
If you’re looking for assistive technology, educational material about neurodivergence or just a fun place to go this summer, check out The Sensory Shoppe in Carmel at 99 E. Carmel Drive or visit sensoryshoppecarmel.com.
Images courtesy of The Sensory Shoppe.
