Bierman Autism Centers is teaming up with Barnyard Buddies to offer a free, sensory-friendly petting zoo in Scottsdale Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Photo courtesy of Bierman Autism Centers
Bierman staff will be on site, supporting families in any way they need.
Photo courtesy of Bierman Autism Centers
Children can enjoy petting goats, sheep, bunnies, dogs, cats and alpacas at the event.
A sensory-friendly petting zoo event is coming to Scottsdale, offering families a chance to engage with animals in a fun, engaging way.
Barnyard Buddies—the family-friendly establishment that offers interactive experiences with various farm animals—will bring goats, sheep, bunnies, dogs, cats, chickens, alpacas and more for children to enjoy at the Bierman Autism Center in Scottsdale (8444 N. 90th St., #130) near the Salt River Fields at Talking Stick.
The free event is Saturday, April 26, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Hands-on activities, quiet areas to rest and snacks will also be available, providing a playful, inclusive experience for children on the autism spectrum.
Scottsdale Bierman Clinical Director Sydney Bardelli says events like this are an example of “play-based autism therapy,” Bierman’s way of embedding learning opportunities into play.
“That’s how kiddos learn the best, we’ve found,” Bardelli said. “This uses positive reinforcement and individualized goals to help our kiddos succeed in a way that’s fun and also rewarding.”
Bierman staff will be on site, supporting families in any way they need, says Bardelli.
The sensory-friendly petting zoo is one of many seasonal events that Bierman hosts, including its reptile encounter event, summer carnival, trunk or treat, sensory Santa and other popup events in the community.
It’s important to provide rewarding, fun experiences for families with children on the autism spectrum at no cost, says Bardelli, particularly because these events are few and far between.
“Siblings, families, friends, this is open to the whole community, so whether you’re enrolled in our services or not, we want families to be able to come and be welcomed and find value in community,” she said.
Founded in 2006, Bierman Autism Centers offers applied behavior analysis therapy, speech and occupational therapies and diagnostic testing, all customized to meet each child’s unique needs. Services are delivered in a play-based, one-on-one environment that helps children build essential skills while having fun.
Outside of Scottsdale, Bierman Autism Centers are located in Indiana, Massachusetts, North Carolina, New Jersey, Ohio and Rhode Island.
Bierman Autism Center in Scottsdale is located at 8444 N 90th St. #130. For more information, visit biermanautism.com.
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