Kalahari partners with SSM Health, introduces Calming Room

April 7, 2025

WISCONSIN – Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Wisconsin Dells recently partnered with SSM Health and the SSM Health Treffert Center to open a dedicated Calming Room at its resort. 

Located on the second floor in the resort’s main lobby, Meg Puddy – SSM Health Treffert Center director of behavioral health services – said the room provides a safe, quiet space for guests with sensory sensitivities who need a place to decompress.

“Sensory processing differences are a natural part of human diversity, experienced by millions of people, including those with autism, ADHD, PTSD and other conditions,” she said. “Every detail, from the design to the artwork, has been thoughtfully crafted in collaboration with the Treffert team to foster a supportive environment where guests can pause, regulate and engage with their Kalahari experience in a way that works best for them.”

Puddy said the Calming Room is equipped with comfortable seating and calming visuals and offers sensory-friendly activities, books, fidget toys and noise-canceling headphones.

John Chastan, general manager of Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, said the resort was proud to partner with SSM Health and the Treffert Center.

“This partnership has allowed us to create a state-of-the-art Calming Room here at Kalahari, leveraging the groundbreaking Treffert Approach,” he said. “It’s more than just a quiet space – it’s a carefully considered environment where families can find peace and relaxation when they need it most.”

The room will also serve as a nursing room for mothers, SSM Health Regional President Sue Anderson said, and is part of a collaboration between Kalahari Resorts and SSM Health that offers health and safety benefits and education to resort guests.

“Partnerships like this allow us to meet community members and area visitors where they are in meaningful and valuable ways,” Anderson said.