Six Flags Parks to Revamp Their Accommodations for Those with Autism, Cognitive and Physical Disabilities

In an era of Autism awareness and acceptance, theme parks are still a destination that may families struggle visiting without feeling judged or looked at like they are requesting accommodations above what the general public receives. The matter of the fact is those with autism many times cannot withstand a full day at one of these parks, have trouble comprehending the process of waiting, suffer with auditory processing disorder or have a serious issue with being in close proximity to others within an attractions queue.

With any system that can be misused, many theme parks have had to make changes in order to curtail abuse by the not so scrupulous guest ruining it for the few that truly need the accommodations. It’s a system that is always evolving at all the theme parks and the latest version to be introduced to Six Flags Magic Mountain seams to be a good fix.

To combat this issue Six Flags Great Adventure recently announced that it will earn the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This initiative that will cover 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.
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“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.

So what does this mean? 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:
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• 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.

View the complete Safety & Accessibility Guide HERE

“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.”

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

This new system will offer a quicker, more private way to secure necessary accommodations for those with a disability without feeling like they are being interrogated. This new system should also assist in cutting down on the misuse by those who have no real need all while furthering the awareness by the theme park. The end result will hopefully provide an equally enjoyable experience for all.