Six Flags parks earn Certified Autism Center designation

Six Flags Entertainment Corp. has appointed Mike Spanos as president and CEO effective Nov. 18, and as a member of the Board of Directors effective immediately. Spanos will be relocating to the Dallas-Fort Worth area with his family. Spanos, 55, most recently served as CEO of PepsiCo, Asia, Middle East and North Africa.

Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: SIX), the world’s largest regional theme park company and the largest operator of waterparks in North America, announced Feb. 6 that each of its 26 parks will earn the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).

The company said in a news release that Six Flags is the first-ever family of parks to earn the designation at all locations.

“We are proud to partner with IBCCES to ensure that guests on the autism spectrum have the best possible experience when visiting our parks,” Six Flags Vice President of Safety Jason Freeman said in the announcement. “The certification process will equip our team members with the tools and training needed to better serve guests with special needs. We want them to know Six Flags stands ready to welcome them with open arms.”

Many individuals and families with children on the autism spectrum or with sensory sensitivities find it challenging when visiting new places or planning family trips. The potential for sensory overload, combined with a lack of understanding and awareness at parks and other recreational venues, can often be overwhelming, the news release said.

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The CAC designation from IBCCES, the only credentialing board providing these services for the amusement and attractions industry, requires that at least 80% of guest-facing staff at each park complete a training and certification program through IBCCES, as well as complete on-site audits and make a commitment to ongoing training.

The staff training focuses on understanding the autism spectrum and strategies for communication, guest experience, and safety, while the on-site audit will give each park techniques and guidance on additional updates.

“IBCCES is extremely excited to work with a family of parks with this level of commitment,” Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman, said in the announcement. “So many families just need more communication and understanding from parks and other attractions, so they can make those memories together that we all cherish. In some cases, small changes can make a huge impact, and our certification program ensures each park is committed to long-term growth and understanding, not just a one-time training.”

For almost 20 years, IBCCES has been the industry leader in cognitive disorder training and certification for healthcare, education and corporate professionals around the globe.

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IBCCES recognized that many families with children who have special needs have limited travel options. In response to this need, IBCCES created training and certification programs specifically for the attractions and travel industry, the news release said.

Six Flags will also be the first network of parks to implement IBCCES’ Accessibility Card. The cards may be used during all Six Flag park visits. For more information on the Accessibility Card registration, visit www.accessibilitycard.org – FWBP Staff