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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

KultureCity has partnered with Cosley Zoo to make the zoo and all of its programs and events sensory inclusive. This initiative promotes an accommodating and positive experience for all guests with sensory issues that visit the zoo.

As part of the certification process, staff at Cosley Zoo were trained by leading medical professionals on how to recognize guests with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Weighted lap pads and sensory bags, equipped with noise canceling headphones, fidget tools and verbal cue cards, will also be available to guests who may feel overwhelmed by the zoo atmosphere.

Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions. One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to overstimulation and noise, which can be an enormous part of the zoo environment. With its new certification, Cosley Zoo is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible.

“A key component of Cosley Zoo’s mission is to promote conservation by connecting people to animals and nature. It is very important to us that all visitors have that opportunity and that they feel comfortable when visiting the zoo. Our staff was eager to participate in this training in order to ensure that we are doing