Aquatica Orlando becomes first water park to be a Certified Autism Center

Aquatica Orlando, in conjunction with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), has announced that they are now designated as a Certified Autism Center (CAC) – the first water park in the world to do so.

The water park received this distinction after completing a staff-wide autism sensitivity and awareness training course, as well as an onsite review of the park property and guest experience.

Working with IBCCES, the staff at Aquatica Orlando will be continually trained to assist guests with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families, in order to provide a positive visit experience. Guests will also be given specific information about attractions and experiences, as well as in-park accommodations, to help them plan their day and make choices that are best suited for their needs.

As a Certified Autism Center, Aquatica Orlando is required to provide ongoing training to ensure that its team members have the knowledge, skills, temperament, and expertise to interact with families and children with special needs, specifically on the Autism spectrum.

“We know that training and certification is the best way for organizations to ensure they can accommodate all families,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman. “IBCCES is proud to work with Aquatica Orlando and other leaders in the industry to increase the availability of certified options and help individuals have a safe and enriching experience when traveling or visiting a new place. With the rise in diagnosis of cognitive disorders, there is a huge need for these options and for organizations to make a long-lasting commitment to their guests.”

Training will cover the areas of sensory awareness, environment, communication, motor and social skills, program development, and emotional awareness, as well as a comprehensive Autism competency exam. The training must be taken every two years to maintain the certification.

“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,” said David Heaton, vice president of Aquatica Orlando. “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.”

To learn more about Aquatica Orlando and to plan your own visit, head to Aquatica.com/Orlando.