Free autism awareness event hits Rio shopping mall in April

From April 9–11, Shopping Metropolitano Barra offers free workshops, music therapy, and talks on autism spectrum disorder for families and educators.

In the month that honors World Autism Awareness Day — celebrated on April 2 — Shopping Metropolitano Barra, in Rio de Janeiro’s Barra Olímpica neighborhood, is opening its doors for a three-day event focused on understanding and inclusion. All activities are free and take place at the Espaço MET on the mall’s second floor, from 2 PM to 8 PM.

The program is a partnership with Instituto Integra Brasil and targets families, educators, and anyone who wants to deepen their knowledge about Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The initiative is part of the shopping mall’s broader social responsibility agenda.

Workshops, music therapy, and sensory activities

Throughout the three days, visitors can take part in a range of activities designed to foster development and inclusion. The lineup includes sensory play workshops, music therapy, storytelling sessions, drawing activities, and psychomotricity exercises. The space was designed to encourage interaction, creativity, and meaningful exchanges in a welcoming environment.

Daily talks tackle real-life challenges

Each evening from 7 PM to 8 PM, the event hosts guided conversations on themes that resonate deeply with ASD families and caregivers.

• Thursday (Apr 9): “Meltdown or tantrum? How to respond without making it worse”
• Friday (Apr 10): “Why routine and predictability matter”
• Saturday (Apr 11): “Support networks: who takes care of the caregiver?”

These topics go straight to the heart of daily life with autism — practical, human, and necessary conversations that many families rarely get the chance to have in a supportive group setting.

Event Info

• Event: Autism Awareness Initiative – Shopping Metropolitano Barra
• Dates: April 9–11, 2026
• Hours: 2 PM to 8 PM
• Venue: Espaço MET – 2nd floor, near Kopenhagen, Shopping Metropolitano Barra
• Address: Av. Embaixador Abelardo Bueno, 1300 – Barra Olímpica, Rio de Janeiro – RJ
• Admission: Free
• Phone: +55 (21) 3095-9044
• Email: espacocliente@shoppingmetropolitanobarra.com.br