News and Knowledge

For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), popular vacation destinations such as theme parks can be overwhelming and frightening. With summer fast approaching, parents who are looking for a destination that suits everyone in the family may find the perfect spot at the nation’s first autism-friendly theme park.

Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit entity behind Sesame Street, is now offering exciting vacation experiences through Sesame Place, the first theme park in the world recognized as a Certified Autism Center by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

Located in Langhorne, Pa., the park recently opened for its 38th season. A second Sesame Place theme park is also in the works with plans for an opening by mid-2021. Sesame Place offers families in the autism community the opportunity to enjoy a theme park in a supportive environment.

Robust pre-visit planning resources are available on the park’s website, including guides developed by IBCCES on how children with sensory processing issues may enjoy each attraction. Children and families have access to quiet rooms with low sensory options, adjustable lighting, and comfortable seating areas for viewing the parades or dining with characters, along with the use of noise-canceling headphones while at the park.

Sesame Place team members must complete rigorous autism sensitivity and awareness training that focuses on sensory awareness, environment, communication, motor and social skills, program development, and emotional awareness. This training provides the knowledge and skills allowing staff to cater to all children with a particular focus on children with autism. For the park to maintain its certification, team members must go through ongoing training every two years.

Sesame Street has long been an inclusive and welcoming place on children’s television. The show recently introduced Julia, a Muppet with autism, and the show’s characters often talk about autism. Neurotypical kids watching at home gain an understanding of autism, so when meeting others at school with ASD, they are more accepting. Sesame Place promises ample opportunities for the children to interact with Julia in the park.