SeaWorld Orlando has some good news to share on World Autism Day. Today, the park announced that it has officially been designated as a certified autism center by The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
- SeaWorld Orlando joins Aquatica Orlando and Discovery Cove as the first family of parks in Orlando to be certified.
- Aquatica Orlando became the world’s first water park to be recognized as a certified autism center earlier this year.
- Sesame Place, SeaWorld’s sister park, became the first theme park in the world to reach this accreditation in April 2018.
- The IBCCES worked with SeaWorld Orlando on a staff-wide autism sensitivity and awareness training as well as an onsite review of the park property and guest experience in order to provide them with their certification.
- Part of being a certified autism center means providing guests with quiet spaces, one of which can be found in the recently opened Sesame Street area of the park.
What they’re saying:
- Mark Pauls, SeaWorld Orlando park president: “We are incredibly proud to be the first family of Orlando theme parks to achieve these certifications. We want to create lasting memories for all our guests. As families start planning their summer travel, the resources and tools that our parks now offer can provide peace of mind for families with members that have autism and other special needs. Our parks and staff are now equipped to offer families inclusive activities, helping to ensure meaningful experiences for everyone.”
- Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman: “IBCCES is excited to be on this journey with SeaWorld as we work in tandem to educate and train their staff. With 1 in 59 children diagnosed on the autism spectrum it is nice to see SeaWorld’s long term commitment to providing services that encourage inclusivity in the parks. This should be the industry standard and we’re working with leaders in the field to make that happen. Thousands of hours of hard work and training have been completed by SeaWorld’s dedicated ambassadors, and they are opening doors for all individuals to engage in the different activities the parks have to offer. Having conducted an onsite review of the park property and guest experience, we have seen firsthand SeaWorld’s commitment and contributions to education and animal care and their enthusiasm for sharing those experiences with all guests.”