LYNNWOOD—In celebration of April as Autism Awareness Month, the Lynnwood Police Department is hosting on Saturday, April 19, “Cops for Inclusion: A day with kids of diverse abilities.” The event, held at the Northwest Church grounds in Lynnwood, is specifically designed for families and children on the Autism Spectrum.
How it will work?
The Lynnwood Polie Department will set up different stations families to rotate through. Inside, you’ll learn about pedestrian safety, fingerprinting, our police robot, and what’s on our vests. Outside, you’ll meet our K9 Officer and his partner (from a distance), see what’s inside our patrol vehicles, and watch LPD’s drone in action. You will register for an hour block of time, and your time at each station will be approximately ten minutes. Your child will be given a goody bag at the event’s start and will collect items at each station to take home at the end of the day.
LPD understands that some children are sensitive to loud noises and flashing lights. Therefore, they are designating two “Quiet” time slots during the day in which we will not operate any of our lights, sirens, or equipment. Additionally, LPD is implementing two dedicated time slots for teens and young adults. Those unique time blocks are indicated on the registration form.
There will also be several informational tables for parents! A SNO911 dispatcher with two children on the Autism Spectrum will be providing information and helping interested families sign-up for Smart911. A Lynnwood patrol officer will be available to answer questions about our response to your calls for service.
LPD is working with licensed behavioral health professionals to create an environment where your family feels safe and welcome. They have reserved a “quiet room” inside the church facility if you and your child need to step away from the action. LPD will also be providing fresh fruit and other healthy snacks.
To register or learn more: https://www.lynnwoodwa.gov/Community/Events-Calendar/Cops-for-Inclusion-A-Day-with-Kids-of-Diverse-Abilities
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
