The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden has made significant efforts to ensure that its bathrooms are accessible and inclusive for all visitors, particularly those with developmental disabilities and their families. From sensory-friendly facilities to adult-size changing tables, the zoo’s restrooms are designed to cater to the diverse needs of its guests.
Sensory-Friendly & Family Restrooms
One of the standout features of the Cincinnati Zoo’s bathrooms is the presence of sensory-friendly and family restrooms. These specialized facilities are designed to be more comfortable for individuals with sensory sensitivities. They feature manual flush toilets instead of automatic flush and paper towels instead of hand dryers, which can be overwhelming for some visitors.
These restrooms are also equipped with adult-size changing tables, making them suitable for teens and adults with disabilities. This is a crucial feature, as many public restrooms are only designed with young children in mind, leaving older individuals with special needs without a comfortable option.
Accessibility Features
In addition to the sensory-friendly and family restrooms, the Cincinnati Zoo has also made strides in ensuring that its bathrooms are accessible for visitors with disabilities. The zoo offers single-room family restrooms that are welcoming to non-binary visitors or those who prefer not to use gendered bathrooms.
Furthermore, the family restrooms in the Vine Street Village are equipped with adult-size changing tables, catering to the needs of visitors who require this amenity.
Additional Amenities
The Cincinnati Zoo’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond the basic restroom facilities. The zoo has a nursing den and a nursing nest for mothers who need a private space to nurse their children. These dedicated areas provide a comfortable and discreet environment for nursing mothers, ensuring that they can attend to their children’s needs without feeling self-conscious or uncomfortable.
Expansion Plans
The Cincinnati Zoo’s efforts to enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of its bathrooms are ongoing. The zoo plans to expand the number of ‘Sensory Friendly’ bathrooms, further improving the experience for visitors with sensory sensitivities.
Partnership with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital
The Cincinnati Zoo’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity is further demonstrated by its partnership with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC). Through this collaboration, the zoo aims to become the most welcoming, accessible, and inclusive zoo for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
By working closely with CCHMC, the zoo can better understand the needs of its visitors with developmental disabilities and implement tailored solutions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all.
Conclusion
The Cincinnati Zoo’s dedication to providing accessible and inclusive bathrooms is a testament to its commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all visitors. From sensory-friendly facilities to adult-size changing tables and nursing areas, the zoo’s restrooms are designed to cater to the diverse needs of its guests.
As the zoo continues to expand its accessibility features and strengthen its partnership with Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, it is poised to become a model of inclusivity for other zoos and public spaces. By prioritizing the comfort and accessibility of its bathrooms, the Cincinnati Zoo is setting a new standard for inclusive experiences in the world of zoo tourism.
References:
– https://map.cincinnatizoo.org/places/868-sensory-friendly-family-restroom
– https://map.cincinnatizoo.org/place-types/99-restrooms
– https://cincinnatizoo.org/plan-your-adventure/zoo-access-for-all/
– https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2019/08/15/cincinnati-zoo-adds-adult-changing-tables-sensory-friendly-bathrooms/2017112001/