When planning a vacation for individuals with autism, it’s important to consider destinations that offer a supportive and inclusive environment. Here are two types of autism-friendly places to visit: Certified Autism Centers and sensory-friendly attractions.
Certified Autism Centers
Several establishments have taken proactive steps to become Certified Autism Centers, ensuring that they provide specialized services and accommodations for guests with autism and other special needs. These centers undergo comprehensive training and meet specific criteria to create a welcoming and understanding environment. Some notable examples include:
Sesame Place | Certified Autism Center |
Six Flags Theme Parks | Certified Autism Center |
The Franklin Institute | Sensory-Friendly |
Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction | Certified Autism Center |
Knoebels Amusement Resort | Certified Autism Center |
These certifications ensure that staff members are trained to accommodate the needs of individuals with autism, and the facilities are designed to be sensory-friendly, providing a more inclusive experience for all visitors.
By choosing destinations that are Certified Autism Centers or offer sensory-friendly experiences, families and individuals with autism can have a more enjoyable and inclusive vacation. It’s always a good idea to check specific websites or contact the venues in advance to learn more about the services and accommodations they provide.
Planning an Autism-Friendly Vacation
When planning a vacation for individuals with autism, it’s important to consider their unique needs and create an environment that is inclusive and supportive. Here are some key aspects to consider when planning an autism-friendly vacation:
Creating a Routine
Creating a routine can greatly benefit individuals with autism while on vacation. Establishing a basic routine can help them feel grounded and adjust more easily to new surroundings. For example, incorporating activities such as breakfast at the same time every day, followed by a planned outing or activity, and then returning to the hotel room before lunch can provide a sense of structure and familiarity. Having a predictable routine can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of security.
Downtime and Structure
In addition to having a routine, it’s essential to build in downtime and structure throughout the vacation. Allowing for quiet time each day provides an opportunity for individuals with autism to decompress and recharge. This can be especially important in busy or overstimulating environments. If returning to the hotel room for downtime isn’t feasible, look for quieter spaces within the vacation destination where the individual can relax and regroup.
Travel Support Services
Many airlines and airports offer support services to make traveling with an autistic child easier. These services can vary, but commonly include accommodations such as priority boarding, bypassing long security lines, and other considerations to ensure a smoother travel experience. Research and reach out to the airline in advance to understand the specific accommodations they offer and how they can best meet the needs of the individual with autism.
It’s also worth noting that certain airports have implemented sensory accommodations and support programs for individuals with autism. For example, Vancouver International Airport offers the I CAN Fly program in partnership with the Canucks Autism Network. This program provides resources and accessibility services, including expedited access through screening and US Customs. They also conduct accessibility tours to help families with autistic children practice the check-in process. Research the airports you will be using and see if they offer similar programs or services.
By considering the needs of individuals with autism and implementing strategies such as creating a routine, incorporating downtime, and utilizing available travel support services, you can help ensure that your vacation is autism-friendly and enjoyable for everyone involved.
Autism-Friendly Locations to Visit
When planning a vacation for individuals with autism, it’s important to consider destinations that provide a supportive and inclusive environment. Here are some autism-friendly places to visit that cater to the unique needs and preferences of individuals on the autism spectrum.
Theme Parks
Theme parks have made significant strides in becoming more accessible and accommodating for individuals with autism and other special needs. Some notable examples include:
- Sesame Place: In partnership with The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), Sesame Place has become the first theme park to be designated as a “Certified Autism Center.” They offer specialized services and resources for guests with autism, ensuring a fun and inclusive experience.
- Six Flags Theme Parks: In February 2020, Six Flags Theme Parks earned the designation of “Certified Autism Centers.” This recognition highlights their commitment to providing a welcoming environment for individuals with autism and their families.
- Knoebels Amusement Resort: As America’s largest free-admission amusement park, Knoebels Amusement Resort has earned the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation. They strive to offer inclusive and accessible options for guests with autism, ensuring everyone can enjoy the park to the fullest extent.
Airports with Sensory Accommodations
Traveling through airports can often be overwhelming for individuals with autism. However, some airports have implemented sensory accommodations to create a more comfortable experience. Here are a couple of examples:
- Vancouver International Airport: Through their I CAN Fly program in partnership with the Canucks Autism Network, Vancouver International Airport provides resources and accessibility services for families with children on the autism spectrum. This includes expedited access through screening and US Customs, as well as accessibility tours to help families practice the check-in process.
- Shannon Airport: Shannon Airport in Ireland became Europe’s first airport to have a sensory room designed specifically for individuals with neurodevelopmental challenges like autism. The sensory room offers a calming pre-flight space with features such as an aquatic bubble tube, LED lights, and a wheel projector.
Specialized Attractions
In addition to theme parks and airports, there are other specialized attractions that prioritize the needs of individuals with autism. Here are a couple of examples:
- Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction: Hershey’s Chocolate World Attraction has earned the designation of a Certified Autism Center™ (CAC). They provide visitors with autism and sensory needs a tailored experience, including evidence-based staff training, sensory guides, and more.
- Disney Theme Parks: Disney theme parks offer a range of services for guests with autism, including the Disability Access Service that allows families to schedule return times for rides to avoid waiting in lines. They also provide an online guide for guests with cognitive disabilities and have designated quiet zones for sensory breaks.
When planning a vacation, considering these autism-friendly locations can help ensure an enjoyable and stress-free experience for individuals with autism and their families.
Inclusive Amusement Parks
For families looking to visit autism-friendly places, inclusive amusement parks provide an environment that caters to the unique needs of individuals with autism. Here are two notable amusement parks that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility.
Morgan's Wonderland in Texas
Located in Texas, Morgan’s Wonderland is the world’s first fully accessible amusement park designed with individuals with special needs in mind. The park offers a wide range of wheelchair-accessible rides, attractions, and activities that can be enjoyed by individuals of all abilities.
One of the highlights of Morgan’s Wonderland is the Sensory Village, a dedicated area that provides sensory play experiences for individuals with autism. This interactive space allows individuals to engage with various sensory elements designed to stimulate their senses in a safe and inclusive environment.
Beaches Resorts in the Caribbean
Beaches Resorts in the Caribbean has taken steps to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for individuals with autism. They operate the Caribbean’s first autism-friendly kids’ camps, where childcare staff receive specialized training in sensory awareness, motor skills, social skills, and communication related to autism. This training enables them to provide the necessary support and understanding to children with autism.
At Beaches Resorts, programming and meals can be customized to meet the specific needs of children with autism. The resorts also offer one-on-one care if needed, ensuring that children with autism have a safe and enjoyable vacation experience.
By offering sensory-friendly accommodations and trained staff, Morgan’s Wonderland and Beaches Resorts aim to make the amusement park experience more accessible and enjoyable for individuals with autism and their families. These autism-friendly places provide a sense of belonging and inclusion, allowing everyone to create lasting memories while exploring the joys of amusement parks.
Conclusion
Choosing autism-friendly places to visit can significantly enhance the travel experience for families with autistic children. Destinations that offer sensory-friendly environments, clear routines, and accommodating staff can make outings more enjoyable and less stressful. Whether it’s a quiet park, a museum with tailored programs, or a specialized amusement park, these thoughtful considerations help create positive and memorable experiences.
By researching and selecting autism-friendly venues, families can ensure a more inclusive and supportive atmosphere for their autistic children, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy their time together.
At Rainbow ABA, we are dedicated to supporting this journey with our top-notch ABA therapy services in New Jersey, Texas, Oklahoma, and Georgia. Our expert team delivers personalized and effective therapy to help individuals thrive. For more information on how we can assist you or your loved ones, contact us today!
Sources:
- https://10best.usatoday.com/interests/travel-tips/autism-friendly-vacations-tips/
- https://liaise.com/10-ideas-for-autism-friendly-days-out/
- https://www.bancroft.org/resources/autism-friendly-places-to-visit/
- https://www.todaysparent.com/family/special-needs/12-travel-destinations-that-kids-with-autism-will-love/
