SeaWorld opens certified autism centre in popular Orlando water park

Aquatica Orlando, a Florida-based water park owned and operated by SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, has announced that it is certified to accommodate visitors living with autism.

The announcement was made by Aquatica Orlando on their Instagram account.

In a statement posted via the company's Instagram account, Aquatica Orlando said:

"It is our goal to provide every family with an enjoyable & memorable visit to Aquatica Orlando & we are proud to offer specialized services to guests with autism & other special abilities. We are excited to announce Aquatica Orlando as the first water park in the world to become a Certified Autism Center! With trained ambassadors and a new sensory guide, we are ready to help plan your day to the USA’s top water park & our newest thrill ride Kare Kare Curl this spring."

Certified partners & staff

Aquatica Orlando has partnered with The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), which offers online training and certification programs, to become designated as a Certified Autism Center (CAC). 

All of Aquatica Orlando's park staff have been trained in areas including sensory awareness, motor skills, autism overview, program development, social skills, communication, environment, and emotional awareness. 

The park will have resources for pre-visit planning as well as sensory guides providing information on how people with autism may be affected by different attractions. 

Helpful programs & guides

Aquatica Orlando has added several programs, guides, and areas in the park that are devoted to ensuring that all visitors feel welcome in the park.

The IBCCES Sensory Guide provides insight on how a child with sensory processing issues may be affected by each sense for rides and attractions at Aquatica.

Aquatica Orlando's Ride Accessibility Program was designed to allow guests to fully participate and enjoy our parks while keeping in mind the safety requirements of our rides and attractions.

A new quiet room located near Kata's Kookaburra Cove, complete with adjustable lighting and a comfortable seating area, was designed to assist guests who are looking to take a break from sensory stimulation. The Quiet Room is locked to ensure complete privacy, but guests who would like to use the Quiet Room may do so on a first come first served basis. 

For more information, click here!

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