Six Flags Great Adventure to Earn Certified Autism Center™ Designation

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Six Flags Great Adventure to Earn Certified Autism Center™ Designation

 

All Six Flags Theme Parks to Implement Specialized Training and new Accessibility Card to Better Serve Guests

 

JACKSON, N.J. — February 6, 2020 — Six Flags Great Adventure today announced that it will earn the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This initiative, across all 26 Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE:SIX) locations, will mark the first-ever family of parks to earn the designation. Six Flags is the world’s largest regional theme park company and the largest operator of waterparks in North America.

 

“We are proud to partner with IBCCES to ensure that guests on the autism spectrum have the best possible experience when visiting our parks,” said Six Flags Vice President of Safety Jason Freeman. “The certification process will equip our team members with the tools and training needed to better serve guests with special needs. We want them to know Six Flags stands ready to welcome them with open arms.”

 

Many individuals and families with children on the autism spectrum or with sensory sensitivities find it challenging when visiting new places or planning family trips. The potential for sensory overload combined with a lack of understanding and awareness at parks and other recreational venues can often be overwhelming.

 

The CAC designation from IBCCES, the only credentialing board providing these services for the amusement and attractions industry, requires that at least 80% of guest-facing staff at each park complete a training and certification program through IBCCES as well as complete onsite audits and make a commitment to ongoing training. The staff training focuses on understanding the autism spectrum and strategies for communication, guest experience, and safety, while the onsite audit will give each park techniques and guidance on additional updates.

 

As a Certified Autism Center, Six Flags parks will provide:

·         Trained, courteous, front-line team members with the ability to identify visual cues to better accommodate guests with cognitive disorders and help them enjoy their time in the parks;

·         A sensory guide for each ride and attraction so guests can make informed decisions about the ride experience and their level of comfort;

·         Special in-park sensory spaces, where guests with sensory needs can relax in a less stimulating environment;

·         Expanded culinary options to meet guests’ dietary needs (such as gluten-free items); and 

·         An updated Accessibility Guide available at sixflags.com, Guest Relations and Ride Information Centers at each park.

 

“IBCCES is extremely excited to work with a family of parks with this level of commitment,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman. “So many families just need more communication and understanding from parks and other attractions, so they can make those memories together that we all cherish. In some cases, small changes can make a huge impact, and our certification program ensures each park is committed to long-term growth and understanding, not just a one-time training.”

 

"As a person on the spectrum, it is exciting to see more parks taking the extra steps to accommodate all guests," said Dr. Stephen Shore. "The commitment Six Flags is making to a true certification process is impressive and means so much to millions of individuals and families. Creating family memories and recreation are essential for both individuals with ASD and their families as a whole." 

 

For almost 20 years, IBCCES has been the industry leader in cognitive disorder training and certification for healthcare, education and corporate professionals around the globe. IBCCES recognized that many families with children who have special needs have limited travel options. In response to this need, IBCCES created training and certification programs specifically for the attractions and travel industry. While many destinations tout “autism-friendly” options, this phrase means something different to everyone and does not necessarily indicate a true understanding or commitment to serving these guests.

 

Theme Parks Introduce Accessibility Card to Assist Guests with

Cognitive and Physical Impairments

 

Six Flags will also be the first network of theme parks to implement IBCCES’ Accessibility Card. It is designed to help individuals with cognitive disorders or physical impairments identify and receive helpful accommodations at certified attractions worldwide. The cards are free and may be used during all Six Flags theme park visits. Guests will register for the card at www.accessibilitycard.org. After obtaining the card, they can visit Six Flags Great Adventure’s Ride Information Center for attraction access information that best serves their individual needs. For more information, visit https://www.sixflags.com/greatadventure/plan-your-visit/guests-with-disabilities

 

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation is the world’s largest regional theme park company and the largest operator of waterparks in North America, with $1.5 billion in revenue and 26 parks across the United States, Mexico and Canada. For 59 years, Six Flags has entertained millions of families with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks and unique attractions. For more information, visit www.sixflags.com.

  

About IBCCES:

Delivering The Global Standard For Training and Certification in The Field of Cognitive Disorders – IBCCES provides a series of certifications that empower professionals to be leaders in their field and improve the outcomes for the individuals they serve. These programs are the only training and certification programs endorsed by the largest grassroots autism organization in the world, The Autism Society of America, and recognized around the world as the leading benchmark for training and certification in the areas of autism and other cognitive disorders.

 

 

 

Source:  Six Flags Great Adventure

[Pineracer]

Well that was unexpected

[GAcoaster]

Sesame Place, SeaWorld Orlando, Discovery Cove, and Aquatica Orlando were all certified just over a year ago. It's a real benefit to families with autistic kids having guidelines for sensory experiences and quiet rooms available in the parks. All the team members had to take a 2 hour class for the certification and to better help families. 

 

Honestly I'm surprised that Disney hasn't done it yet since the Disney Parks seem to be a huge draw for people with autism.