Autism Action Partnership (AAP) and Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium have launched a free all-inclusive mobile app experience, Omaha Zoo 4 All, to help prepare, engage and inspire visitors with autism or sensory needs, as well as their families.
According to Justin Dougherty, Executive Director of AAP, the app supports individuals in the autism community or those with sensory sensitivities in enjoying their zoo visit.
“The app allows for families to plan their visit—including what to avoid—and identifies Quiet Zones where they can find some respite if they or a loved one becomes overwhelmed and/or overstimulated,” Dougherty said.
Autism Action Partnership first met with zoo officials in March 2019 to suggest partnering on the project. Dougherty said he hadn’t realized the zoo had already been considering creating a sensory friendly app and officials were eager to collaborate. A survey to the autism community received over 300 responses that were used to help craft the app. The pandemic delayed the launch of the app until 2021, when it received a welcome reception from zoo visitors and their families.
“The big picture is at that this app serves as a welcome sign from the zoo to the autism community and will help to advance the inclusivity of our community,” Dougherty said. “The zoo is the number-one paid attraction in our state and one of the best in the world. We are confident that others will follow their lead and become more inclusive in their business practices.”
According to Dougherty, sensory sensitivity is commonly experienced by a wide range of individuals with and without a formal diagnosis. He said the app will also be helpful for people who experience anxiety, post-traumatic stress syndrome and other mental health conditions, as well as those visiting the zoo with loved ones who have sensory sensitivities.
“Family members of individuals with sensory sensitivities are often limited in their activities out of respect for their loved ones, “Dougherty said. “The app will allow them to enjoy the zoo, because their child or sibling is now able to enjoy the zoo.”
Using technology to promote an inclusive experience and bring members of the community together is a win-win, according to Dougherty.
“All members of the zoo staff and all visitors will benefit by sharing their lived experience with the autism community and by the autism community sharing their lied experience with them. When our community is stronger—and more inclusive—all members benefit.”