AUTISM TRAVEL:

AUTISM FRIENDLY VERSUS AUTISM CERTIFIED

We have all heard the term autism friendly. We are attempting to define this term as it relates to autism travel and help you figure out the differences between autism-certified and autism friendly. Not all travel destinations are alike, and not all resorts, hotels, and theme parks carry the same level of training or awareness.

I personally believe that family travel is a gift that is essential to the well-being of your family. My family has traveled extensively in the United States. We have traveled by air, but we have almost exclusively traveled by car. We have driven across the country and back. These experiences have helped shape my children and given them an appreciation for the diversity within our country. However, traveling with a child on the spectrum is much more difficult, but the rewards are even greater.

Autism friendly implies that the destination is welcoming to families traveling with someone on the spectrum. These locations accommodate the sensory and emotional needs of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. 

AUTISM TRAVEL: Autism Friendly

A destination that designates itself as “autism-friendly” has taken some or all of the following actions:

Sensory precautions are taken in regards to lighting, sound, and external stimuli. Attention is paid to limited sensory overload. Facilities may offer special “sensory hours” or special exhibits.

Staff are aware and able to offer assistance to patrons on the spectrum.

Support is given in regards to visual aids to assist those needing additional information in unique ways.

AUTISM TRAVEL: Autism-Certified

When you see the words autism certified, it generally means that the facility and staff have undergone training.  But the designation “Certified Autism Center” has international recognition. These facilities have “successfully completed extensive training from leading autism experts and have designed specialized programs for guests with autism and other sensory disorders.”

The staff is trained, and the training is on-going. “The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) offers certification programs to travel professionals…A Certified Autism Travel Professional™ (CATP) is defined as a professional who has demonstrated that they are both knowledgeable and capable of providing support and travel related services to an individual on the autism spectrum as well as their family.”

The IBCCES supplies autism training for healthcare professionals and educators all around the globe. So many families with children with special needs never travel because of the inability to find sensory friendly locations. The IBCCES created AutismTravel.com to assist families in finding locations that will suit their needs. While AutismTravel.com is not a travel site, it provides families the ability to work with Certified Autism Travel Professionals to customize travel packages to fit their needs.

The website also lists approved destinations, tools, and sensory-rated activities. An approved destination means that the location has undergone autism training. Beaches Resorts staff has had sensitivity and awareness training within their Kids Camp facilities in Jamaica and Turks and Caicos. Beaches staff understand the importance of travel and welcomes the entire family. Their staff is ready to help you have the best vacation experience.

AUTISM TRAVEL: Approved Travel Destinations include: 

Aquatica Orlando: This is the first waterpark in the world to receive the Certified Autism Center destination. 

Zoo-Miami: Largest and oldest zoological garden in Florida

St. Augustine Pirate Museum

Georgia Aquarium located in Atlanta, Georgia

Sesame Place in Philadelphia, PA

Space Center, Houston, TX

Children’s Museum of Houston, Houston, TX

For a complete list of Certified Autism Centers, Visit AutismTravel.com.