Discovery Cove, in conjunction with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), has announced the completion of a staff-wide autism sensitivity and awareness training as well as an onsite review of the park property and guest experience.
The completion designates the Orlando attraction as a Certified Autism Center (CAC), making it the first all-inclusive day resort and animal interaction park in the US to attain this certification.
The certification follows sister parks Sesame Place, the first theme park in the world to reach this accreditation, and Aquatica Orlando, the first water park in the world to be accredited. The accreditation acknowledges that the property has open, clear spaces to make attractions more accessible, which reduces sensory overload for guests with cognitive disorders. A sensory guide is available to make it easier for parents of special needs children to plan visits.
Kyle Miller, president of Discovery Cove, said: ?Autism certification is a natural step for us as we continue to create safe and meaningful experiences for all of our guests. We have seen how well received this certification has been at our Sesame Place and Aquatica Orlando parks, and we are committed in our efforts to offer families inclusive activities for children with autism and other special needs.?
For more information, visit www.seaworldparks.co.uk
