EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — The City of El Paso’s water parks have been designated as certified autism centers by a leading national authority, Destination El Paso said in a news release on Tuesday, July 29.
The water parks — Camp Cohen, Chapoteo, Lost Kingdom and Oasis — received the certification from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
The CAC certification recognizes that at least 80% of each park’s staff that deals with guests have completed training and have the knowledge and skills to better understand and communicate with individuals with autism and sensory sensitivities, the news release said.
As part of the certification, each water park will undergo onsite reviews by IBCCES to create sensory guides and provide additional resources and recommendations to enhance accessibility.
As part of the process of earning the CAC certification, water park staff members received training on:
● Autism overview
● Basic safety
● Sensory impacts
● Accessibility needs
● Communication
● Parent/caregiver perspective
“From the moment we opened El Paso Water Parks, our goal was to create spaces that every family could enjoy together,” said Daniel Arizpe, director of Water Park Operations.
“Becoming certified autism centers reinforces our commitment to making our parks welcoming, safe and fun for all guests, regardless of ability,” Arizpe added.
“Having trained staff is crucial to making sure families with autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals feel welcome and included when visiting attractions like the El Paso Water Parks,” says Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman. “IBCCES is proud to partner with Camp Cohen, Chapoteo, Lost Kingdom and Oasis Water Parks to award them with certified autism center designations.”
In addition to the CAC designation, Lost Kingdom Water Park launched a new initiative this season called “Sensory Splash Hours.” This initiative granted a time slot, from 10 a.m. to 12 pm. select days, to accommodate guests with varying sensory needs.
During Sensory Splash Hours:
● All music and background noise were turned off
● The loud splash bucket bell remained silent
● Attendance was limited to preserve a more relaxed setting
For more than two decades, IBCCES has been a leader in providing autism, sensory and neurodiversity training and certification for professionals worldwide, including those in health care, education, public safety, travel, and corporate sectors, the news release said.
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