Media
Press Releases
2009-09-09 - AUTISM AWARENESS DAY AT THE ZOO
Sunday, September 13, 2009 – 1:00pm to 5:00pm
John Ball Zoo and the Autism Society of Kent County are partnering to provide a specialized zoo experience for individuals with autism while also helping others in the community better understand the disorder.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. Children and adults with ASD typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. The likelihood of knowing someone with autism spectrum disorder is increasing. Today, 1 in 150 individuals is diagnosed with ASD, making it more common than pediatric cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined.
A high-sensory public environment such as the zoo can be difficult sometimes for individuals with autism. The zoo is going to provide educational activities specifically for individuals with autism and also provide parents with a sensory guide to the zoo to help them better identify those areas of the zoo that are best for their children.
Not only will this day provide special activities for individuals with autism, it will also provide other zoo visitors with a better awareness of autism and the challenges it presents. The Autism Society of Kent County will have an informational booth and there will be signs in the zoo to help visitors better understand autism and the needs of those with it.
John Ball Zoo is located at 1300 W. Fulton. The Zoo is open daily from 9:00am until 6:00pm through September 13 when hours change to 10:00am until 4:00pm through the winter months. All activities at Autism Awareness Day are free with cost of admission. $7.50 for adults, $5.50 for children 13 and under and children under 2 are free. For more information log on to www.johnballzoosociety.org or call (616)336-4374.
Contact
For media-related questions, please contact Krys at (616) 336-4374 or by email at kbylund@johnballzoosociety.org.
