Aquatica Orlando — SeaWorld’s water park — has put staff through training and added more resources for visitors to become an official certified autism center, the company said this week.

“Guests will also be provided with specific information about attractions and experiences along with in-park accommodations to help them plan their day and make informed choices best suited to their individual needs,” the company said in a press release.

Visitors can also use a quiet room inside the park with adjustable lighting to take a break, the release said.

Aquatica Orlando is the first water park to hold that distinction in the world, said David Heaton, the water park’s vice president.

“We continually strive to create safe and meaningful experiences for all of our guests, and we are committed in our efforts to offer families inclusive activities for children with autism and other special needs,” Heaton said in a statement.

Another SeaWorld-owned property, Sesame Place, became the world’s first certified autism center theme park last April, the company said.

Employees at Aquatica Orlando underwent autism sensitivity and awareness training to help them talk with families and people with autism. They must undergo training every two years to keep the certification that’s through the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards.

“With the rise in diagnosis rates of cognitive disorders, there is a huge need for these options and for organizations to make a long-lasting commitment to their guests,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman.

© 2019 Orlando Sentinel
Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC

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