SANDUSKY, Ohio — Sandusky's Kalahari Resorts and Conventions is on the verge of becoming the first fully-certified 'Sensory Friendly' resort in the Midwest.
The company announced on Monday that it is partnering with Sensory City, a Boston-based nonprofit organization dedicated to helping families and children with disabilities. Kalahari says it plans to be 'Sensory Friendly' by next month.
“I’m so happy that Kalahari Resorts and Conventions values inclusion and accessibility. They truly understand what it means to meet the needs of those with less visible, but not less important, disabilities. We are thrilled to help them accomplish this,” said Tanya Acosta, executive director of Sensory City.
Kalahari will begin the certification for its employees with Sensory City’s online training in sensory awareness and solutions to help accommodate adults, youth and children with sensory needs such as autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, PTSD, dementia, etc.
In addition, Kalahari has created a sensory room where individuals who experience sensory overload can enter to retreat from an overstimulating environment. This room will include beanbags for sitting and other sensory items.
Upon request, the Kalahari staff will supply sensory kits, safety kits and comfort kits to guests. These kits will be available to reduce overstimulation and help soothe and comfort guests who may experience sensory issues. The custom sensory kits include communication boards for nonverbal guests, noise-cancelling headphones and sensory toys such as fidget gadgets.
Safety kits are available to help guests have more of the comforts of home while traveling and will include outlet covers, a soft ice pack, motion detector door alarm, soft glow night light, and an identifying contact wristband. Comfort kits contain a weighted blanket and sensory eye mask.
“As a father of five, I know the challenge of family travel with a child on the autism spectrum, so it is a passion of mine to be able to provide this resource for families who are enjoying precious time together,” Brian Shanle, general manager of Kalahari Resorts and Conventions in Sandusky said in a statement. “Kalahari and its associates prioritize inclusion and meeting the needs of all of our guests, and this is just another way for us to offer a beyond-expectations experience.”