A Sensory Inclusive Bag. Photo courtesy Rolling Hills Zoo
By SALINA POST
Persons with sensory needs now can have a more enjoyable experience at Rolling Hills Zoo.
The zoo announced Thursday that it is now Sensory Inclusive Certified via KultureCity, and is one of only five such certified locations in Kansas.
"One in six individuals has a sensory need or an invisible disability; including those with PTSD, autism, dementia and stroke, just to name a few. Sensory needs are a common medical condition in which the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses. In fact, common sounds, lights, crowds, and even certain smells, might not only be overwhelming but also physically painful," the zoo noted in a news release.
In addition to the zoo being certified, all zoo employees have Sensory Inclusive Certification.
When persons with sensory needs arrive at the zoo, 625 N. Hedville Road, they can check out KultureCity sensory bags for free. The bags are created for both adults and children and include items that can help lessen sensory overload. Fidget toys and noise-canceling headphones are among the items in the sensory bags.
Additionally, signage has been placed throughout the zoo and museum that not only designates quiet areas, but also alerts guests to areas where they may experience loud noises or strong smells. The zoo also is creating a quiet room below Safari Station for zoo guests to use.
About KultureCity
KultureCity was founded in 2013 by Julian Maha and his wife, Dr. Michele Kong, after Maha witnessed his son, who has autism, experiencing a “meltdown” in a barber shop when a stranger yelled at and grabbed him, the zoo noted. Maha said after that day he was inspired to try to make public spaces more accessible for those struggling with sensory issues and cofounded KultureCity, which has now established more than 900 sensory-inclusive spaces in more than five countries.