/Water park puts on positive experience for autistic

A POPULAR water park has become the first in the world to train all its staff in how to support visitors with autism.

Aquatica Orlando is now officially a ‘Certified Autism Centre’ after every member of staff took part in autism sensitivity and awareness training.

Under the guidance of the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), the park has also undergone a review to make sure all guests with autism have a positive experience.

It follows its sister park Sesame Place, which became the world’s first certified autism centre theme park last April.

As well as continually training staff, the park will make sure all visitors have all the information they need to plan a visit according to their needs.

David Heaton, vice president of Aquatica Orlando, said: “As the first water park in the world to complete the training and become a Certified Autism Center, Aquatica Orlando is proud to provide fun and memorable experiences through exceptional service.

“We continually strive to create safe and meaningful experiences for all of our guests, and we are committed in our efforts to offer families inclusive activities for children with autism and other special needs.”

IBCCES has developed a sensory guide to make it easier for parents to plan activities that satisfy their child’s specific needs and accommodations by providing insight on how a child with sensory processing issues may be affected by each sense for each attraction.

The park will also have a quiet room inside the park with adjustable lighting and a comfortable seating area for guests to take a break.

Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman, added: “We know that training and certification is the best way for organisations to ensure they can accommodate all families.”