Water World Becomes First Waterpark in Colorado to Earn the Certified Autism Center Designation

Hyland Hills Water World has earned the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation, granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). The certification demonstrates the park’s commitment to providing a welcoming environment for guests with autism and other sensory sensitivities.

To receive the CAC designation, Hyland Hills Water World staff completed a training and certification program to learn how to better communicate and engage with guests with sensory needs and their family members, as well as safety concerns and protocols. The park also received an onsite review provided by IBCCES which included sensory guides for rides and recommendations to ensure guest experience is as positive as possible.

“Hyland Hills Water World strives to be inclusive and welcoming to all of our visitors. We are so proud of the IBCCES designation and appreciate the opportunity to open our doors to new folks who may not have felt able to visit our world-class waterpark in the past,” said Joann Cortez, spokesperson.

For more than 20 years, IBCCES has been the industry leader in cognitive disorder training and certification for education, healthcare, and corporate professionals around the globe. IBCCES recognized that many families with children who have special needs have limited travel and recreation options. In response to this need, IBCCES created training and certification programs specifically for the attractions and destinations. IBCCES is the only credentialing organization providing this type of certification, which includes evidence-based best practices as well as the perspectives of individuals with autism, alongside other tools and resources to ensure the program is a long-term commitment and has a lasting impact.

“We’re excited to announce Hyland Hills Water World’s certification,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman. “The completion of our program provides an extra level of confidence and compassion for their staff so that they can best serve all of their guests and continue their commitment to comprehensive accessibility options.”

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

About IBCCES

Delivering The Global Standard For Training and Certification in The Field of Cognitive Disorders – IBCCES provides a series of certifications that empower professionals to be leaders in their field and improve the outcomes for the individuals they serve. These programs are recognized around the world as the leading benchmark for training and certification in the areas of autism and other cognitive disorders.