Bowlero Lanes & Lounge in Royal Oak, MI (Metro Detroit) becomes the first bowling alley to earn the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation from International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). The Certified Autism Center™ designation is awarded by IBCCES to organizations who have completed a training and review process and are committed to serving individuals with autism and other sensory needs.

“I am a former school psychologist, and I really wanted to find a way to bring my expertise to Bowlero Lanes & Lounge. As part of our recent renovation, we made multiple, physical changes to the building which were designed to make our facility accessible to everyone; the building is now ADA compliant, and we provide autism training for all of our employees,” said owner Kelly Elliott, Ed.S., Certified School Psychologist.  “I know that it can be difficult for families with special needs to go out for a day of fun.  But I want these families to know that at Bowlero Lanes & Lounge, we are here to make their experiences as enjoyable and carefree as possible!”  In conjunction with the Certified Autism Center training provided to the staff of Bowlero Lanes & Lounge, owner Kelly Elliott also completed the extensive IBCCES Certified Autism Specialist training and certification.  

Bowlero Lanes & Lounge recently added a young adult/adult special needs league, which kicks off on the winter session on Wednesday, January 15th, 4-6pm (for more info email: [email protected]).  It also plans to extend its sensory days, aka “Mellow Mondays,” into the new year. During these events, staff will offer: lower lights and music, provide sensory aids for check out (headphones, visual timers, weighted vests/blanket), and extend daytime rates into the evening.

For almost 20 years, IBCCES has been the industry leader in autism certification for healthcare, education and corporate professionals around the globe. 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 hospitality and travel industry. While many destinations tout “autism-friendly” options, this phrase means something different to everyone and does not necessarily indicate a true understanding or commitment to serving these guests.

More parents and individuals are seeking out destinations and organizations that have completed a certification program through an accredited source. IBCCES is the only credentialing organization providing this type of certification, which includes evidence-based information as well as the perspectives of individuals with autism, alongside other tools and resources such as onsite reviews and customized recommendations to ensure the program is a long-term commitment and has a lasting impact.

“We’re excited to work with the team at Bowlero Lanes & Lounge to ensure all families and individuals have options that are committed to being understanding and welcoming,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman.

IBCCES also created AutismTravel.com, a free online resource for parents that lists certified destinations and professionals. 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 the only training and certification programs endorsed by the largest grassroots autism organization in the world, The Autism Society of America, and recognized around the world as the leading benchmark for training and certification in the areas of autism and other cognitive disorders.

About Bowlero Lanes & Lounge

Bowlero Lanes & Lounge is a restored retro-boutique bowling alley, vintage arcade, and cocktail lounge hosting live DJs and bands. Independent and locally-owned since 1957, the building recently underwent a massive renovation designed to allow guests to step back in time… to bowl in our rumpus room-inspired bowling alley, hobnob in our sumptuous 70s-styled cocktail lounge, play vintage pinball, catch a live musical act, celebrate a birthday, sing karaoke, watch a sporting event, or take advantage of our special needs programming. Whatever the pleasure, Bowlero is fun!