FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The requirements to become a CAC through IBCCES include training at least 80% of guest or public-facing staff in autism and sensory disorders through IBCCES. The process may also include an onsite review, as well as the creation of sensory guides for attractions and interactive spaces. The goal is to better prepare staff and management to serve autistic individuals or those with other sensory needs. The certification must be renewed every 2 years with updated training provided for staff at each certified organization.
IBCCES is an independent credentialing organization that was founded in 2001 with the goal to provide specialized training and certification to professionals working with autistic individuals and those with other cognitive disorders. IBCCES is a leader in the training and certification for cognitive disorders, including autism, with certificants in more than 87 countries across the globe.
- • IBCCES works with an advisory board of specialists with expertise in neurology, psychology, behavior therapy, special education, travel, and other disciplines, as well as autistic self-advocates. This advisory board is actively involved and participates in creating the training programs offered by IBCCES, which is evidence-based and promotes best practices from experts in multiple disciplines.
- • IBCCES does not believe there is a “one size fits all” approach and thus brings together the expertise and learnings from multiple areas as well as the viewpoints and experiences of autistic individuals.
IBCCES offers industry and position-specific training, as well as individual professional credentials. Depending on an individual’s position within an organization, their training may have focused on guest service in a recreational space and building empathy and understanding of what autistic visitors may need.
- The credentials and training are meant to supplement or build upon existing departmental and organizational regulations and rules, particularly in a safety.
- All staff that complete training through IBCCES complete a competency exam specific to their training program to ensure comprehension.
The training and certification provided by IBCCES are specific to industry and position.
- For travel and leisure-related organizations, such as hotels, attractions, recreation and visitor services, staff are trained to better understand what autism is (and isn’t), how to empathize and understand how autistic individuals experience the world, communicate more effectively, and be aware of common sensitivities and concerns in a recreational environment.
The purpose of the training and certification programs offered by IBCCES is to ultimately improve the experience and outcomes for individuals with autism and other related disorders.
- The focus is on building understanding and empathy, as well as improving processes and options for individuals with these needs, and ensuring staff has appropriate tools and strategies when engaging with a neurodiverse population.
- With 1 in 44 children diagnosed with autism (according to the Centers for Disease Control), along with millions of individuals who were never diagnosed but are on the spectrum, and 1 in 6 individuals having a sensory need or sensitivity, the need has never been greater.
The IBCCES Accessibility Card (IAC) is designed to help streamline the accommodation request process for anyone who needs assistance or accommodations at theme parks and attractions.
- Apply for free at AccessibilityCard.org
- Then take printed or digital copy to guest services or ticket counter to gain access to accommodations at your favorite attraction.
* The IAC does NOT guarantee entry to certified attractions and all accommodations provided are at the sole discretion of the attraction.