BATTLE CREEK, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Officials with the Binder Park Zoo (BPZ) in Battle Creek announced Monday that the Zoo is now certified to better accommodate guests with sensory issues.
The certification comes by way of a partnership with KultureCity, a nonprofit organization that works to better help those with sensory needs.
The certification process included special training for zoo staff to recognize guests with sensory needs, as well as the ability to handle a sensory overload situation.
Special sensory bags containing Puro Sound Labs noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools and verbal cue cards will be available for guests to check out at the entrance gate of the zoo at no charge. Guests can use the sensory bags in the event they feel overwhelmed by the zoo environment during their visit.
Additionally, quiet zones inside the zoo are marked where guests can take a break from their visit, or recover from a sensory overload situation.
Officials say that sensory issues can be a barrier in some guests who visit the zoo, especially those who suffer from autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions. These can include sensitivity to overstimulation and noise.
“Our goal is to provide an exceptional experience to all our guests, and this exciting partnership with KultureCity improves our ability to accommodate guests with sensory needs,” BPZ Operations Manager Renee Newman said. “Through specialized training, our staff is now trained to recognize and assist guests with sensory issues.”
Before visiting, guests can download the free KultureCity App and view what sensory features are available at the zoo and where they are. They can also access the Social Story, a visual preview of the destination to better plan for what they can expect when they arrive.
Further information and resources can be found online at www.binderparkzoo.org.
