On April 2, Sesame Place, a Sesame Street–inspired amusement park, announced that it is officially the first theme park in the world to become a Certified Autism Center.
The park, located in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, partnered with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards to ensure that every family can enjoy the park, no matter what its needs may be.
According to Sesame Place's website, certification included special training for all employees focusing on "sensory awareness, motor skills, autism overview, program development, social skills, communication, environment, and emotional awareness," so that they can cater to children of all needs.
The park now includes quiet rooms with adjustable lighting for any person with sensory processing issues.
Guests are now able to view character parades — one of Sesame Place's most popular attractions — from low-sensory areas and to wear noise-canceling headphones for a more enjoyable experience.
Sesame Place is also now offering a sensory guide that breaks down all rides and attractions, rating the stimulus for touch, taste, sound, smell, and sight on a scale from 1 to 10.
In addition, the park will give families a chance to meet Julia, an autistic character who Sesame Street introduced last year.
Sesame Place opens back up for the season on April 28.
