Adventure Aquarium Is Now Certified Sensory Inclusive

Press release from Adventure Aquarium:

Nov. 2, 2022

KultureCity has partnered with Adventure Aquarium to make sure all of the programs and events that the venue hosts are sensory-inclusive. This new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for all guests with sensory issues that visit the Aquarium in Camden.

The certification process required staff at Adventure Aquarium to be trained by leading medical professionals to recognize those guests with sensory needs and how to handle a sensory overload situation. Sensory bags equipped with noise-canceling headphones (provided by Puro Sound Labs), fidget tools, verbal cue cards, and a weighted lap pad will also be available at the Info Desk for any guests who may feel overwhelmed by the environment.

“Our main goal in becoming certified sensory inclusive was to help create memories worth repeating for guests who may have previously found the Aquarium experience too overwhelming to the senses,” said Molly Deese, Executive Director, Adventure Aquarium. “We are so grateful for our partnership with KultureCity, which has provided Adventure Aquarium with the knowledge and resources to make our venue enjoyable for any guest with sensory needs.”

Sensory sensitivities or challenges with sensory regulation are often experienced by individuals with autism, dementia, PTSD and other similar conditions (1 in 6 individuals). One of the major barriers for these individuals is sensitivity to overstimulation and noise, which is an enormous part of the environment in a venue like Adventure Aquarium. With its new certification, the Aquarium is now better prepared to assist guests with sensory sensitivities in having the most comfortable and accommodating experience possible when attending any event.

Prior to attending an event, families can download the free KultureCity App, where they can view what sensory features are available and where they can access them. Also on the App is the Social Story which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying an event at Adventure Aquarium.

“Our communities shape our lives, and to know that Adventure Aquarium is willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing. We’re honored to partner with the Aquarium to provide a truly inclusive experience for all guests!” Uma Srivastava, Executive Director, KultureCity.

KultureCity is a leading non-profit recognized nationwide for using its resources to revolutionize and effect change in the community for those with sensory needs, not just those with autism. Since the program’s inception, KultureCity has created over 1,000 sensory-inclusive venues in 6 countries: this includes special events such as the NFL Pro-Bowl, NFL Super Bowl, MLB World Series, and MLB All-Star Weekend. KultureCity has won many awards for its efforts, including the NASCAR Betty Jane France Humanitarian Award in 2017 and the 2018 Clio Sports Silver for social good in partnership with Cleveland Cavaliers and Quicken Loans Arena. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ Quiet Space Sensory Room at Quicken Loans Arena was a finalist for the 2018 Stadium Business Award. KultureCity was named one of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2019 and 2020 by FastCompany and recently won the Industry Partner Award in TheStadiumBusiness Design & Development Awards 2019.

This press release was produced by Adventure Aquarium. The views expressed here are the author's own.