A SEND-Friendly Day Out That Felt Truly Inclusive
We were generously gifted a visit to London Zoo’s Easter event, and what unfolded was more than just a day out – it was a long-awaited moment of connection, learning and joy.
For our neurodivergent family, planning accessible family activities in London can be complex. The noise, crowds, difficulties with travelling, lack of predictability – it all adds up. But this event? It felt possible… and even more than that, it felt like a huge success! Finding a car park space whilst it was quiet outside definitely helped, which allowed me to park free for 4 hours using a blue badge.
Why London Zoo’s Easter Event Was SEND-Friendly and PDA-Appropriate
It’s not often you find events that cater so beautifully to families like ours – but London Zoo’s Easter event (running 5–21 April 2025) offered a genuinely inclusive experience for children with SEND, including PDA profiles.
Here’s what made it work for us:
– Relaxed entry times and quieter sessions allowed us to arrive without pressure on the day
– Low-sensory zones, especially near the Easter prize hub, reduced overwhelm
– Friendly, trained staff who were approachable and understanding
– Accessible facilities and adjustments
These adaptations weren’t just thoughtful – they were essential. They helped my children feel safe and supported, which meant they could engage fully with the experience.
The Zoonormous Egg Hunt – Educational and Engaging
The Zoonormous Egg Hunt was a highlight. Children collected clues from giant eggs hidden throughout the zoo, leading to a secret password and a sweet reward. But the true prize wasn’t the chocolate – it was the learning.
I won’t spoil the surprise, but when we reached the end, we were met with a moving discovery about an endangered species. It led to deep, genuine conversations with my children – about conservation, responsibility and the importance of protecting animals both in zoos and in the wild.
They were absorbing facts, asking questions and emotionally invested – and that’s the magic of hands-on, real-world learning.
What This Day Meant to Us as a PDA Family
It’s taken years of adjustments, advocacy and heartbreak to reach a point where a day like this could happen. If you’re currently navigating life with a PDA child, or feeling like accessible days out just aren’t for you – please know: we’ve been there too.
This trip reminded me that things can change. With the right support, the right environment and the right timing, what once felt impossible can become a joyful memory.
Final Thoughts: A Truly Accessible Family Day Out in London
We wholeheartedly recommend London Zoo’s Easter event for any family looking for a SEND-friendly, inclusive day out in London. Whether your child has sensory processing needs, is autistic, or needs support with demand avoidance, this event showed what’s possible when inclusivity is embedded from the start.
Thank you to the team at ZSL London Zoo for making us feel welcome, seen and supported.
To visit ZSL London, or to find out more about the event, click on this link.
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