DARIEN CENTER, N.Y. (WKBW) — Six Flags Darien Lake will earn the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
The company made the announcement Thursday. The certification requires that at least 80 percent of the guest-facing staff complete a training and certification program through IBCCES. The program also includes onsite audits and Six Flags committing to ongoing training.
“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.”
As part of the certification, Darien Lake will have staff that can identify visual cues to better accommodate guests with cognitive disorders, a sensory guide for each ride and attraction, and special in-park sensory spaces.
“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.”
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation says all 26 parks will earn the Certified Autism Center designation.
