BACKGROUND : LENNY CATALANOTTO / COURTESY OF VISIT MESA
WORDS / TAYLOR COULSON
Saying your business is “ autism friendly ” isn ’ t enough anymore . To truly create an inclusive experience for visitors with autism or other sensory needs , destinations , theme parks and attractions are turning to the experts at the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards to train their staff , create soothing spaces and provide resources to help visitors prepare and feel comfortable . As a travel advisor , when you ’ re planning travel experiences for clients with special needs , it ’ s important to go above and beyond your agency ’ s traditional booking strategies and standards . Remember that engaging in stimulating activities like traveling , interacting with animals and water , and playing outdoors are therapeutic practices for individuals on the autism spectrum , and sometimes take a different kind of research or planning on your part . The following Certified Autism Centers ( CAC ) know just what it takes to create complete inclusion and acceptance in this fast-growing market of travel for families with special needs .
What is a Certified Autism Center ? The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards recognizes a CAC as a facility or organization in which at least 80 % of the staff is highly trained , fully equipped and certified in the field of autism . A CAC is dedicated to serving individuals on the spectrum and its staff stays committed to being considered experts by continuing training and education in the field . CACs can range in specific specialty areas such as educational facilities , health care , entertainment , transportation , city government and safety , and of course , hospitality and tourism .
How to get your clients to a CAC The main factors and challenges travel advisors should consider when booking travel for individuals with special needs are to be as accommodating and adaptable as possible . When it comes to your travel business practices , this means your booking strategies and standards don ’ t have to be set in stone because every vacation , family and itinerary is unique . Nicole Thibault is the founder of Magical Storybook Travels , a travel agency located in Fairport , New York . As the agency owner and agent herself , Thibault specializes in travel services for families with special needs and family travel , and her business thrives off of an a la carte approach by creating unique and personalized experiences from start to finish .
“ Familiarizing clients with their vacation before they even leave is how I help the families I work with overcome anxiety about travel ,” says Thibault . “ Sometimes they ’ re nervous about what the bathroom will look like in the hotel . Sometimes they ’ re looking for a restaurant with chicken nuggets on their menu and that ’ s what will make or break their decision on destinations to visit .” Thibault says that one of Magical Storybook Travels ’ best features is the creation of picture schedules and social stories , which are educational videos ( see stssv . com ) that help families prepare for their vacation in a visual and audio way that not every travel agency does .
As travel advisors , you ’ re creating life-changing vacations and memories that last a lifetime for your customers , while making an immense impact on the lives of those on the spectrum across the U . S . Sending families to CACs takes stress away from the parents so everyone in the family can relax , unwind and really enjoy their time together , which is what a vacation is all about .
Editor ’ s Note : Some of these attractions on this list may be closed due to the pandemic or have special entry requirements in place . Please check with them directly for the latest status .
34 / THE COMPASS / SPRING 2021 vaxvacationaccess . com / thecompass