Photo courtesy of Sesame Place Facebook page
Sesame Street has been a family fave for decades, and was recently praised for introducing the world to new puppet Julia, a 4-year-old with autism, on the show. Now Sesame Place in Langhorne, PA is following suit by aiming to include all little fans in the fun. The amusement park just received a new designation that’ll make it even more of a go-to destination, especially for special needs families.
Through a partnership with The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), Sesame Place is the first theme park in the world to become a Certified Autism Center. This means the venue’s employees and features cater to the safety and enjoyment of guests with autism and other special needs.
Here are the specs that earned Sesame Place the accreditation:
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Certified staff: Team members have the proper knowledge, skills and attitude regarding topics like sensory awareness, communication and social skills to cater to kids with any special needs.
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IBCCES Sensory Guide: This gives parents and kids an idea of how a child with sensory issues may be affected by a ride or attraction.
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Ride Accessibility Program: This takes into consideration the individual abilities of each guest regarding the requirements of each ride. Prior to visiting, guests can fill out a questionnaire and take it to the Welcome Center upon arrival. Once the form is processed, the guest will receive a personalized list of rides that’ll keep them safe and having fun.
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Quiet rooms and noise-cancelling headphones: If your kiddo needs a break from the sounds of the park or crowds, take a break in one of two new quiet rooms near Big Bird’s Rambling River, complete with adjustable lighting and cozy seating. Kids with hearing sensitivity can also snag a pair of WhipsEars headphones to block out sound.
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Low sensory areas and parade viewing: Watch the characters march by without worrying about unwanted high-fives or hugs by sitting where the parade starts or several rows back from the viewing line. Need a calmer location while walking around? Visit Twiddle Bug Tracks and the area behind Sesame Street Neighborhood.
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Dining options: You can talk to someone about when to hit meal facilities during non-peak hours to avoid crowds, as well as how to book a character dine with limited direct interaction. Guests with special dietary needs can bring their own food.
Sesame Place opens for the season on April 28 at 10 am. Tickets range from $45-70. Sit in on musical shows, join in on neighborhood parade fun, go for a spin on the rides and meet Julia in person. Sesame Place in located at 100 Sesame Rd. in Langhorne, PA. For more information, visit sesameplace.com or call 1-215-702-ELMO.