Six Flags Great Adventure To Receive Autism Certification

JACKSON, NJ — Two years ago, Six Flags Great Adventure held its first Autism Day, which aimed to provide those on the autism spectrum and those with sensory sensitivities a fun day at the amusement park.

Now the amusement park company is taking that a leap further: all of its parks, including Six Flags Great Adventure, will earn the Certified Autism Center designation for training its employees to assist patrons who have sensory sensitivities or are on the autism spectrum, the company announced Thursday.

The certification comes from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, which was established in 2001 to standardize ways for various industries to meet the needs of people with cognitive disorders. The organization's credentialing programs are used in a variety of industries.

"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," said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman. "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."

To receive the Certified Autism Center designation, at least 80 percent of the staff who work with the public must complete a training and certification program through IBCCES and make a commitment to ongoing training. IBCCES also performs onsite audits.

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.

Six Flags is putting this into action at all 26 of its amusement parks and water parks, the company said.

Among the measures being implemented:

• 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);
• An updated Accessibility Guide that will be available on the Six Flags website, at Guest Relations and at Ride Information Centers at each park.

Six Flags will become the first family of parks to earn the designation.

"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 Jason Freeman, Six Flags vice president of safety. "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."

In addition to the Certified Autism Center designation, Six Flags will introduce use of the IBCCES Accessibility Card. The card 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. Six Flags has additional information on its website.

Have a news tip? Email karen.wall@patch.com