Boomers Parks Earn Certified Autism Center Designation

On Sept. 18, Boomers Parks announced that eight of its Family Entertainment Centers (FEC) and Water Parks have achieved the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation, accredited by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

According to Brandon Moore, VP of Operations at Boomers Parks, this major milestone sets a new standard, as Boomers Parks becomes the first family of FECs to earn this certification at each of its locations. These locations include, but are not limited to: Boomers Parks Los Angeles, Irvine, as well as Big Kahuna's Water Parks in New Jersey and Florida.

“We are thrilled to announce that all Boomers Parks are now Certified Autism Centers,” said Brandon Moore, VP of Operations at Boomers Parks. “This major milestone not only marks a significant accomplishment for our parks but also reaffirms our social responsibility commitment to the communities around them.”

The IBCCES is an organization responsible for providing evidence-based training and certification programs created in conjunction with its board of clinical and subject matter experts and autistic individuals to provide professionals with a better understanding of autism and other neurodivergence.

According to IBCCES Board Chairman Myron Pincomb, "IBCCES is excited to work with Boomers Parks, the first family of autism-certified Family Entertainment Centers, to make sure autistic and sensory-sensitive visitors and their families can create cherished memories while embracing the incredible adventures at Boomers and Big Kahuna's locations.”

Pincomb continued: "Our programs will provide long-term support with ongoing training and other support to help Boomers Parks achieve their objective of providing accessible options for all fun seekers."

In order to receive CAC designation from the IBCCES, Boomers Parks has dedicated itself to ensuring that 80% of their guest-facing staff have undergone comprehensive, evidence-based training, which includes perspectives of autistic individuals.

“By integrating Autism Awareness training, our team members are now equipped to ensure that every visitor, regardless of their abilities, can enjoy their day at our family entertainment centers,” Brandom Moore said. “This milestone reaffirms our commitment to inclusivity, breaking barriers, and creating a more accessible and enjoyable experience for all.”

In line with Boomers Parks’ efforts, IBCCES also conducted on-site assessments of Boomers Parks attractions to provide recommendations and sensory guides, all aimed at further enhancing the overall guest experience.

“Boomers Parks places a strong emphasis on accessibility and inclusion within our core values. Our approach is rooted in genuine compassion for all our guests, with the goal of ensuring that everyone feels genuinely welcomed and well-accommodated,” shared Tim Murphy, CEO of Boomers Parks.

According to a press release, both Boomers Parks and Big Kahuna’s Water Parks will providing the following services to any and all guests with autism:

• Trained, helpful, front-line team members equipped to better assist autistic and sensory sensitive guests and help them enjoy their time at FEC as well as Big Kahuna's lifeguards, who have received position-specific training to enhance safety and communication around the water at Big Kahunas.
• Sensory guides for every area that provide insight into how the game or area may be affected by each of the five senses to make it easier for individuals and families to plan activities that align with their needs and accommodations available on each location's website.
• Designated low sensory areas to allow patrons with sensory sensitivities to take a break and relax in a less stimulating environment.

“Ensuring the safety of our guests is our top priority,” Brandon Moore said. “The dedicated management team and team members at all Boomers and Big Kahuna’s Parks are fully committed to creating a clean, safe and fun environment for all guests that visit.”

Moore also added that he hopes other FECs follow Boomers Parks’ actions in becoming designated at CACs themselves – stating that the choice to do so helps foster inclusivity, as well as promoting empathy to guests.

For more information on the CAC accommodations provided by Boomers Parks and Big Kahuna’s Water Parks, you can visit their website at https://boomersparks.com/. And for more information about the IBCCES, as well as their services, you can visit their official website at https://ibcces.org/.

You can also visit AutismTravel.com, a free online resource, created by the IBCCES, for parents that lists certified options and connects families to other resources and each other. Each destination listed on the site has met the Certified Autism Center (CAC) requirements.