PR&LA Fall 2018

14  • PENNSYLVANIA RESTAURANT & LODGING matters • Fall 2018 First of a Kind On World Autism Day, April 2, 2018, Sesame Place became the first theme park in the world designated as a Certified Autism Center by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). The park offers special activities for children with special needs, a downloadable sensory guide for families planning to visit, quiet rooms, low-sensory areas, and other services from staff members who have undergone extensive training on autism sensitivity and awareness. Brigit Katz of Smithsonian.com reported that improving accessibility at the park is part of a broader initiative by the Sesame brand to embrace the needs of children on the spectrum. A Muppet named Julia, who has autism, was introduced to the cast of “Sesame Street” in 2016. A walk-around Julia character was introduced at Sesame Place last year. The park offers special activities for children with special needs, a downloadable sensory guide for families planning to visit, quiet rooms, low-sensory areas, and other services from staff members who have undergone extensive training on autism sensitivity and awareness.