Zen Den

About the Zen Den

The Zen Den is a designated quiet space with a closing door that separates you from the rest of the museum. It is intended for feeding babies, sensory overload, or any other reason you may need a quiet space. This area is not open for free play and should be left available to those who need the space.

Sensory Overload

Sensory overload occurs when your senses (sight, smell, touch, taste, and hearing) take in more information than your brain can process. This is a completely normal experience and it is important for everyone to remember that these feelings are temporary. Sensory overload can look like running away, leaving quickly, covering eyes/ears, having a tantrum, or any combination of these. A person experiencing sensory overload may experience difficulty focusing, irritability, restlessness, or frustration.

The Zen Den is created to accommodate the needs of those experiencing sensory overload. The room features toys for quiet play, calming down, and fidgeting. These toys help to calm children (or adults!) down and relax sensory processing.

Accommodations

Explore Children’s Museum welcomes visitors of all ages and abilities. Our goal is to make everyone’s museum experience engaging, joyful, and meaningful. We understand that some guests need extra support to participate in play in the museum setting. Accommodation Kits (containing tactile toys (fidgets), visual timers, calming brushes, exhibit visuals, and noise blocking headphones) are available at the Welcome Center to assist those who may need additional support. Upon request, a museum staff member will gladly provide an Accommodation Kit.