LEGOLAND US resorts commit to supporting autistic children

All American LEGOLAND resorts have committed to becoming certified autism centres in the next few months.

According to an announcement from Merlin Entertainment, LEGOLAND Florida, New York, and California will all become certified autism centres, as confirmed by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) by the spring of 2023. In. addition, LEGOLAND Florida’s three onsite hotels, as well as Peppa Pig Theme Park, just steps away from LEGOLAND, are also all Certified Autism Centers.

Families visiting LEGOLAND Resorts can soon expect:

• Trained front-line team members equipped to better assist autistic guests or those with other sensory sensitivities.
• Pre-planning resources available for guests on the Resorts’ websites.
• Sensory guides developed by IBCCES indicating whether there are bright lights, loud sounds, or any features that guests might need to plan around. Rating each attractions’ sensory levels – touch, taste, sound, sight, and smell – makes it easier for families to plan activities that align with their needs and accommodations. On the guides, there is a Park map marked with low-traffic areas for visitors in need of a low-sensory break area.
• Low sensory areas to allow guests with certain sensitivities to take a break and relax in a less stimulating environment.
• LEGOLAND Florida and LEGOLAND New York offer quiet rooms dedicated to children with varying sensory needs – where guests can decompress with weighted blankets, dim lighting, and tactile toys.
• Upon request, First Aid offers ear plugs to assist with sound and overstimulation and “Assisted Access Passes” can be requested at Guest Services.

To become certified, the resorts will need to undertake evidence-based training from IBCCES, as well incorporate the perspectives of autistic individuals. In addition, IBCCES provides resources like onsite reviews and customised recommendations, as well renewal requirements to ensure LEGOLAND Resorts have the tools and support that can make a lasting impact for all guests.

“LEGOLAND Resorts are designed to inspire creativity amongst children of all abilities – our rides, experiences and entertainment all foster a child’s imagination through a lens of belonging,” said Scott O’Neil, CEO, Merlin Entertainments. “With 1 in 44 children diagnosed with autism in the U.S.A., we want to build understanding and empathy while also ensuring our teams have the tools and support strategies when engaging with a neurodiverse population. Through this certification, we’re providing our guests with more opportunities to create and play their way, while supporting parents through every step of the vacation planning journey.”

Featured image: Merlin Entertainments

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