Individuals with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) need autism certified recreational activities.  Many times, we concentrate on housing and education, neglecting the need for ‘fun’.  We do the same activities – roller skating, movies and outdoor activities, never thinking outside the box.  Having other opportunities will increase individuals’ quality of life immensely. I will always encourage people providing experiences from organizations that are committed and understand people with an ASD.

In an unprecedented manner, the IBCCES Certified Autism Center program continues to expand travel options for people on the autism spectrum and their families. The work of IBCCES brings us closer to where understanding and support of the autism community by travel providers and destination points will become the rule rather than the exception.

As someone who serves on the Panel of People on the Spectrum of Autism Advisors (PSA) for the Autism Society and as a board member of IBCCES, I’ve had the opportunity to see firsthand the tremendous work that both these groups continue to provide for our community. I’m thrilled with the endorsement from the Autism Society and I hope our families will be excited as they look at all the inclusive travel options IBCCES continues to provide. I can’t stress the impact that this will have in terms of forward progress, as when I was growing up on the autism spectrum I could only dream about having these options available for me and my family.

Traveling to a destination where the staff are trained to recognize and address the needs of children on the Autism Spectrum simply makes our trip less stressful and more enjoyable. We know that once we arrive on resort that the stress of the trip is over and we can relax without having to worry over what the next meal will be or how the staff will react to the kids. It give us the freedom to enjoy a vacation in the same way that ‘regular’ families can.

We are so proud to have become a Certified Autism Center after our associates went through specialized training provided by the wonderful staff of IBCCES. Families that live with autism can feel comfortable knowing our employees understand their needs. We have continuing education and videos available today to help us maintain this caring and inclusive culture throughout our resort.

As a mom of three boys, two with Autism and sensory processing issues, it’s such a great comfort to now have a wide range of Certified Autism Centers to choose from when selecting a destination for our next family vacation.

AutismTravel.com gives families like mine a stronger sense of hope that more theme parks/resorts, restaurants, theaters, cruise ships, airlines, etc are trained and certified in the skills they need to accommodate families on the autism spectrum so that they can also live and experience the typical dream of making great family memories together.