ASHEBORO, N.C. (ACME NEWS) — The North Carolina Zoo has introduced monthly ‘quiet days’ specifically for visitors with sensory sensitivities.
In March 2019, the N.C. Zoo announced its new status as a “Certified Sensory Inclusive Venue,” a designation by KultureCity, a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with sensory needs. KultureCity is internationally recognized for its work in creating inclusive environments for people with sensory processing challenges.
“We’re thrilled to provide this program as part of our commitment to inclusivity for all guests,” said Jamie Merchel, the Zoo’s Guest Service Officer, in a press release about the certification.
The certification involved training staff and volunteers to recognize and assist guests with sensory sensitivities, including how to respond to situations involving sensory overload.
According to Ellen Braaten, Ph.D., director of the Learning and Emotional Assessment Program (LEAP) Program at Massachusetts General Hospital, sensory overload occurs when an environment overstimulates one or more senses. “There can be too much sensory input for the brain to process,” Braaten explained in an article for Understood for All Inc., a non-profit advocating for neurodivergent individuals. For those with sensory processing difficulties, these situations can cause not only discomfort but also physical pain.
Quiet Days
While the zoo’s sensory-inclusive certification means it is designed to be accessible every day, it acknowledges that busy days may still feel overwhelming for some guests. To accommodate, the zoo has set aside one Quiet Day each month.
On these designated days, the zoo minimizes sensory stimuli by not accepting reservations for large groups or field trips and by turning off loud music and announcements at entrances and throughout the park.
For those planning a visit with someone who has sensory sensitivities, the zoo provides additional resources and information to help guests make the most of their experience.
Sensory Bags
Sensory bags, equipped with KCVIP badges, fidget tools, noise-canceling headphones, and other helpful items, are available for guests to borrow at no charge (with an ID left as collateral). These bags can be checked out at the Guest Services offices located at the North America and Africa entrances, as well as at Kidzone.
Weighted Lap Pads
Weighted lap pads are also available upon request, free of charge (with an ID left as collateral), at the Guest Services offices located at the North America and Africa entrances, as well as at Kidzone.
Quiet Zones
The zoo has established “Quiet Zones” throughout the park, offering areas with reduced activity and seating for guests to rest and regroup if they become overstimulated. These Quiet Zones can be found in the following locations:
- Kidzone Butterfly Pathway
- Gazebo near the Black Bear exhibit
- Gazebo near the Desert exhibit
- Gazebo near the Lemur exhibit
- Seating area near the Baboon Trail
Headphone Zones
The zoo has designated certain areas known as “Headphone Zones,” where noise levels are higher and guests often gather. These zones include:
- Kidzone
- Garden Friends Playground
- Junction Plaza
- Gorilla Playscape
- Airhike/Treehouse Trek area
For additional information, please visit the Accessibility section of the NC Zoo’s website.
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