KANSAS CITY, Mo. — For the Davis family, going out in public can be difficult.
"Bronx got diagnosed with autism last year," Ben Davis said of his 3-year-old son.
Things that might seem normal to most children, can bother kids on the autism spectrum.
"The noises, the big crowds — it's probably going to be quite crowded today, but it's a little different," Ben said.
That's because the Kansas City Zoo dedicated the day to kids like Bronx, its fifth annual Autism Awareness Day.
There were quiet rooms, sensory friendly presentations and more designed to be soothing rather than bothersome for autistic children.
"We also have some special animal encounters that we will do especially for this day," KC Zoo Senior Education Manager Natali Rodgers said. "All of our shows will be geared towards being more on the sensory friendly side, so our lights will be a little bit dimmer (and) the sounds won't be as loud."
Local autism organizations are pleased that the zoo has embraced these children, who received free admission. Those accompanying the kids paid a reduced rate of $7 for admission from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
"It brings them out in the open, inclusive with everyone. It allows to have the same experience as any other child, said Megan Horak, who works with AllAboutAutism.org
Horak's organization co-sponsored the event along with the Autism Society of the Heartland and Autism Speaks.
It was a big deal for the Davis family, which hopes more people understand kids like his son as a result of the event.
"I think that is the biggest thing, understanding," Ben said. "He's just like every other boy. You've got to treat him a little different. Actually, he's just quirky."
