World Autism Awareness Day is April 2, but the whole month is dedicated to increasing understanding and acceptance of people with autism.
According to the CDC, autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. People with ASD may behave, communicate, interact, and learn in ways that are different from most other people.
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While ASD affects each person differently, sensory issues are common in people with autism and are even included in the diagnostic criteria for autism spectrum disorder, according to Autism Speaks.
There are several sensory-friendly places and attractions to visit in Central Florida:
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex announced last year that it has now been recognized as a Certified Autism Center. As a Certified Autism Center, the space complex will provide a number of things including specialized and trained front-line team members to better assist those with specific needs, sensory guidance signage around the complex and designated low sensory areas where where guests with sensory sensitivities can take a break and relax.
LEGOLAND Florida was the first LEGOLAND park in North America to become a certified autism center, and with four quiet spaces and sensory guides all over the park. Sensory guides are located on attractions throughout the entire park. Each sign has a one through 10 rating for smell, taste, sound, sight and smell.
The Crayola Experience offers Sensory Sundays on select dates throughout the year. The attractions opens at 9 a.m. on those days and are designed for kids and families who would like to experience the attraction adapted just for sensory needs.
The Dr. Phillips Center is now one of two performing arts centers in the country to earn Certified Autism Center designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards. The center said it has expanded its accessibility efforts to ensure every guest enjoys the same quality experience while in the venue to stay true to their vision of “Arts For Every Life” and mission of being a welcoming place where people love to be.
The Orlando Museum of Art offers a ‘Creative Connections” program on select Sundays aimed at connecting visitors of all ages with developmental and learning disabilities and those on the autism spectrum to art and the world around them.
The Brevard Zoo offers sensory bags and lanyards for our guests to borrow that includes a weighted lap pad, noise-canceling headphones, fidget toys and other items that may help guests with unique sensory-processing needs get the most out of their Zoo experience. They also offer a sensory guide to help you plan your visit if guests in your group have sensory sensitivities.
The Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens also offers sensory bags equipped with noise-canceling headphones, cue cards, fidget tools, and other resources. The bags are available to borrow, free of charge, for guests with sensory needs.
Sesame Street Land at SeaWorld Orlando has partnered with The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), a global leader in online training and certification programs, to become designated as a Certified Autism Center. Ambassadors receive specialized training to ensure they have the requisite knowledge, skills, temperament, and expertise to cater to all children, including those with special needs.
Universal Orlando Resort offers a detailed sensory guide for guests with cognitive disabilities.
Walt Disney World has a page dedicated to its services offered for guests with cognitive disabilities.
The Orlando Family Stage (formerly Orlando Repertory Theatre) offers sensory-friendly performances of select titles each season which offer accommodations such as lowered sound levels, house lights that remain on during the show and available quiet rooms.