Virginia Zoo Hosts Sensory-Friendly Event for Autism Families

Inclusive experience highlights ongoing need for accessible spaces in Hampton Roads

Mar. 29, 2026 at 10:37pm

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The Virginia Zoo partnered with local autism organizations to host a sensory-friendly morning event, creating a calmer, more accessible experience for families with children on the autism spectrum. The event featured reduced capacity, advanced ticketing, and a quieter environment to minimize sensory overload. While the event was meaningful for many families, advocates say more work is needed to make everyday spaces inclusive for the autism community across Hampton Roads.

Why it matters

Families with children on the autism spectrum often face challenges when visiting public spaces like the zoo due to sensory issues. This event highlights the growing efforts to support the autism community and the ongoing need for more accessible, inclusive spaces and experiences.

The details

The sensory-friendly event at the Virginia Zoo was organized in partnership with the Autism Society of Tidewater Virginia, Complete the Puzzle, and Destination Family Services. It featured reduced capacity, advanced ticketing, and a quieter environment to create a calmer, more accessible experience for families. The event also connected families with resources like therapy services and social programs.

  • The sensory-friendly event took place on March 29, 2026.

The players

Aleksandra Gojkovic

Treasurer of the Autism Society of Tidewater Virginia.

Brittany Fitzgerald

Program coordinator for the sensory-friendly event.

Theodore Faulk

Board member of Complete the Puzzle and parent of a child on the autism spectrum.

Joshua Faulk

Theodore Faulk's son, who attended the sensory-friendly event.

Jeremiah Faulk

Theodore Faulk's other son, who shared his perspective on the experience.

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What they’re saying

“This day is a little different because there are smaller crowd sizes, you can get a more one-on-one experience … and just a slower pace.”

— Brittany Fitzgerald, Program coordinator

“You can call them, they can give you a list of providers for developmental needs, and then even after therapies, programs like art, music, social groups, to really help be involved in the community.”

— Aleksandra Gojkovic, Treasurer, Autism Society of Tidewater Virginia

“The biggest struggle is finding things for your specific child and finding people and resources that can bring that out of them.”

— Theodore Faulk, Board member, Complete the Puzzle

“Even though you're different, you're just unique, you're one of a kind.”

— Jeremiah Faulk

“Everybody deserves grace.”

— Aleksandra Gojkovic, Treasurer, Autism Society of Tidewater Virginia

What’s next

The Autism Society of Tidewater Virginia and other local organizations plan to continue hosting sensory-friendly events and advocating for more inclusive spaces in the Hampton Roads community.

The takeaway

This event highlights the ongoing need for accessible, autism-friendly experiences and the importance of creating a more inclusive community for families with children on the autism spectrum. While progress has been made, there is still work to be done to ensure all individuals and families can fully participate in and enjoy public spaces.