Hohokam Stadium in Mesa , Arizona , is the spring training facility for the Oakland Athletics , and became a CAC in February 2020 , making the team the first MLB organization to earn a CAC designation . Given the stadium ’ s location in Mesa , it goes along with the city ’ s dedication to creating an inclusive experience for individuals with autism .
The staff at Hohokam Stadium were trained through the IBCCES program to understand what autism is and how to communicate effectively with individuals with autism . They also learned to be aware of common sensitivities autistic individuals may have in an environment like a baseball stadium . The A ’ s also made some updates to their home in Oakland , introducing a sensory room to the Oakland Coliseum to create a quiet , soothing space for fans .
SLAVEN GUJIC / VISIT MESA
3 . AQUATICA ORLANDO
Aquatica Orlando became the first CAC-designated water park in the world in January 2019 , and has also been voted the nation ’ s best outdoor water park by USA Today . The park ’ s website has a sensory guide that walks visitors through the sensory levels of each attraction , rating them from 1 ( low sensory stimulation ) to 5 ( high sensory stimulation ) to help visitors prepare for their time at the park . A low sensory area behind Loggerhead Lane , a quiet room near Kata ’ s Kookaburra Cove , and ride accessibility program are just a few highlights included in the park ’ s accreditation .
COURTESY OF SEAWORLD
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