Island H2O Live! has earned the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation, granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). The certification demonstrates the park’s commitment to providing a supportive environment for guests with autism and other sensory disorders.
To receive the CAC designation, Island H2O Live! staff completed autism sensitivity and awareness training to learn how to better communicate and engage with guests with sensory needs and their family members, as well as safety concerns and protocols. The park also completed an onsite review from IBCCES to further enhance the guest experience, including sensory guides which will be provided for visitors to better understand sensory impacts of all rides.
“Island H2O Live! is an immersive experience for all our guests, including guests with autism. We want everyone to feel welcomed into the water park, providing the highest level of care for anyone with special needs,” said general manager Jim Kunau. “All water park employees have completed extensive training and taken the time to become educated on providing the best experience for all.”
In addition to the CAC designation, Island H2O Live! offers additional accessibility options. As a benefit for those with food sensitivities, an allergy menu is available to review online. Lights and music for each attraction are also fully customizable to suit the needs of all guests.
“We are delighted to have Island H2O Live! become a Certified Autism Center™,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman. “Their commitment to providing all visitors with the best possible experience is evident. The completion of our certification provides an extra level of confidence and compassion for their staff so that they can best serve all guests.”
As a leader in healthcare, education, and corporate certification for 20 years, IBCCES recognized the need for more trained and certified travel and entertainment options. In response to feedback from families and individuals with sensory needs, IBCCES adapted its evidence-based programs specifically for amusement parks, zoos, resorts, aquariums, and other family entertainment venues.
IBCCES also created AutismTravel.com, a free online resource for parents that lists certified destinations and connects families to other resources and each other. Each destination listed on the site has met Certified Autism Center (CAC) requirements.
Island H2O Live! is located in Kissimmee, FL and offers a completely interactive experience, tailored by and for each visitor.
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