City of Kennedale issued the following announcement on Feb. 07.
The Kennedale Public Library is proud to announce a recent partnership with KultureCity to make our facilities and programs sensory inclusive. We believe that libraries serve everyone and hope that this new initiative will promote an accommodating and positive experience for anyone with sensory issues.
WHAT ARE SENSORY ISSUES OR SENSORY PROCESSING DISORDER (SPD)?
Sensory issues occur when someone has a difficult time receiving, processing, and responding to information from their senses, which – for those who are hypersensitive (rather than hyposensitive) – often leads to avoiding places and activities that trigger their senses including light, sound, touch, taste, or smell. Though they can be experienced by anyone, 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.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE CERTIFIED SENSORY INCLUSIVE?
Kennedale Public Library staff was trained by leading medical professionals on how to recognize 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 (produced in conjunction with Boardmaker) and weighted lap pads will be available to any guest who feels overwhelmed. There are also dedicated quiet spaces for anyone who needs a quieter and more secure environment.
PLANNING YOUR VISIT
Families can download the free KultureCity app to preview what to expect when visiting the Kennedale Public Library and to see what sensory features are available and where they can access them. In the app, you can also view other venues and arenas who have taken the steps to become certified as sensory inclusive.
“Our communities are what shapes our lives and to know that the Kennedale Public Library is willing to go the extra mile to ensure that everyone, no matter their ability, is included in their community is amazing.” Dr. Julian Maha, Co-Founder, KultureCity.
Original source can be found here.
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