SEN Reptile Handling Sessions

A Private, Sensory-Friendly Reptile Experience

At Slitherin Reptiles, we believe animal encounters should be accessible, inclusive, and genuinely enjoyable for everyone. Our SEN Reptile Handling Sessions are carefully designed to provide a calm, autism-friendly, sensory-aware reptile experience in a private, pressure free environment.

These sessions are ideal for individuals with Special Educational Needs, including autism, ADHD, sensory processing differences and anxiety, offering flexibility, choice, and emotional safety at every stage of the visit.

Each session is fully tailored to your family’s needs, allowing participants to engage at their own pace, whether that means hands-on interaction, quiet observation or simply enjoying the space.

What to Expect from an SEN Reptile Handling Session

• Private booking only – no shared groups or unfamiliar faces

• Quiet, low-stimulus environment designed to reduce sensory overload

• Friendly, patient reptile handlers who follow your pace and preferences

• No pressure to touch or handle reptiles – watching is always okay

We also provide a dedicated sensory exploration zone, where visitors can safely explore different textures and sensations in a relaxed way.

A sensory regulation box is always available and includes fidget toys, soft balls, and squishes for anyone who may need a break or extra support.

For those who need downtime, there is a cosy quiet area with rugs, cushions, and blankets provide a safe, comfortable space to relax, reset, or even take part in reptile handling if that feels more manageable.

Some guests choose full interaction, others prefer to observe, take breaks, or move in and out of activities — all choices are respected.

Why Our Sessions Are SEN-Friendly

• Calm, quiet setting with reduced sensory stimulation

• Private sessions only (no unfamiliar groups)

• Optional reptile handling with zero expectations

• Sensory exploration zone and regulation resources

• Comfortable quiet/rest area

• A Visual schedule

•  A SEN information pack sent ahead of time, including “Meet the Staff” and photos of the shop, to help prepare for the visit
  

• Experienced, patient handlers trained to support individual needs

• All Reptile Rangers have Neurodivergence Training

Our aim is simple: to create a positive, supportive reptile experience where every individual feels safe, understood, and in control.

Session Details

• 30-minute or 45-minute private sessions

• Maximum of 8 guests, including parents or carers

• All attendees must be booked in advance to maintain a calm environment

Perfect For Families Looking For:

• An autism-friendly activity

• A sensory-aware animal experience

• A gentle, supportive introduction to reptiles

• A private SEN-friendly family outing

Customer Testimonies 

"Would highly recommend. Visited for an SEN handling session. Very well thought out. Catered for all needs. Hannah and Ella were excellent" - Mrs Black

"Honestly can not thank Hannah and Ella enough! We attended their Sen session experience today and the kids loved it! Before the session we received messages and images telling the children what the experience would look like, as well as get to know me forms - which were incredible because then they weren't strangers to the kids. On to getting to the shop...It was so calm, there were different activities available at all times, such as a sensory area and learning through provision with different substrates and items! Then came the animal experience. When I say my kids are the polar opposites they really are. By the end of our time there both were engaging, holding animals, laughing, asking questions. Happy tears appeared. All because of the patience and kindness of these two lovely ladies. I can't recommend this enough, and in all honesty the kids were asking when they can go again on the way home. Such a magical experience, building confidence and social skills! 100% recommend this to anyone and everyone with sen children. Afterwards we went to have a look in the shop and Joe was just as amazing with the children, answering any questions and reassuring them. At all times the kids were reassured and reminded id they needed to step away at all to regulate then were absolutely ok to do this. If you want a welcoming, inviting environment with knowledge and understanding, Topped off with completely amazing staff - this is your place." - Laura Henderson-Smith 

"Huge thanks to Hannah and Ella for making today a huge success. We really enjoyed it and they did an amazing job!! Thanks everyone who put in time and effort to make this possible. Thank you x" - Kirsty Hobbs

Booking Information

Booking is essential.
If you have specific requirements or questions, we’re always happy to chat and tailor the session to your family’s needs 💚