Visitors can now look for designated Headphone Zones and Quiet Zones and check out sensory bags with helpful items for those with sensory needs.
The Aquarium of the Pacific has been certified by KultureCity as a sensory inclusive venue. KultureCity is a non-profit organization that certifies venues and events as inclusive for those with sensory needs. One in six individuals has a sensory need or an invisible disability. Sensitivity to over stimulation and noise can create barriers that may deter people from going to public venues and attractions.
“The Aquarium aims to be an inclusive and welcoming place for people to explore and learn about the ocean. Partnering with KultureCity gives us the tools to improve experiences for people with sensory needs,” said Emily Yam, Aquarium of the Pacific director of learning and public engagement.
The Aquarium has designated headphone zones and quiet zones for those with sensory needs. Visitors can also stop by the Member Services desk to pick up sensory bags equipped with noise canceling headphones, fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and weighted lap pads.
Prior to visiting the Aquarium, families can download the free KultureCity App to view what sensory features are available and where they can access them. The app also features a Social Story on the Aquarium, which will provide a preview of what to expect while visiting.
During the certification process, the Aquarium’s staff was trained on best practices regarding sensory inclusivity. KultureCity defines sensory needs as a common medical condition in which the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes through the senses.
Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation can be experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other conditions. With its new certification, the Aquarium is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory needs in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible.
You can visit venue.kulturecity.org/venues/aquarium-of-the-pacific to learn more about the Aquarium’s KultureCity certification and amenities for visitors with sensory needs. These amenities are available free of charge to Aquarium visitors. The announcement comes ahead of the Aquarium’s 20th anniversary of its annual Festival of Human Abilities, which celebrates the creative talents of people with disabilities and will take place on the weekend of January 28 and 29, 2023. The Aquarium also offers events throughout the year such as Autism Families Night and Autism Family Morning, both of which have been held for over ten years.
The Aquarium has had a long-standing commitment to being accessible to those with disabilities. The Aquarium offers a downloadable audio tour, a Braille Visitor Guide, and voice-over technology in its Visitor App for those who are blind and with low vision. It features virtual touch technology in the Honda Pacific Visions Theater as well as Epson smart glass for closed captioning. Sign language interpreters are also available upon request with advanced notice.
Credit: Aquarium of the Pacific.
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