Resorts, with their vibrant colors, constant activity, and diverse sights and sounds, offer a vacation paradise for many. However, for travelers on the autism spectrum, the same environment can present a unique set of challenges.
Sensory Overload: Resorts are often filled with a cacophony of sounds – poolside music, children’s laughter, and restaurant chatter. Additionally, bright colors, strong scents from buffets, and the constant movement of people can be overwhelming for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
Disrupted Routines: Travel often disrupts established routines, a source of comfort for many on the spectrum. Regulated mealtimes, specific sleep schedules, and familiar activities can be thrown off-balance in a resort environment.
Social Interaction: Social interaction, a highlight for many resort guests, can be draining for those with autism. Navigating unfamiliar social cues, small talk with strangers, and maintaining eye contact can be exhausting.
Unpredictability: Travel delays, unexpected changes in plans, or getting lost can be highly stressful for individuals who prefer predictability.
Beaches Hotels & Resorts has been a pioneer in finding ways to create an inclusive and comfortable setting for its guests, including those with autism.
In 2017, Beaches Resorts became the first resort company to be designated a Certified Autism Center, a certification that was the result of extensive training of all staff and review by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES).
All staff working with children are trained in sensory awareness, motor skills, social skills, communication, emotional awareness and the unique and varying needs of persons with autism. Beaches Resorts offers special programs including:
Certified Kids Camps where their team members have the requisite knowledge, skills, temperament, and expertise to cater to all children and offer age-specific programs for infants, toddlers, pre-teens and teens.
The Caribbean Adventure with Sesame Street® Beaches has introduced Julia – a sweet and curious 4-year-old with autism. As part of Sesame Street and Autism: See Amazing in All Children, Julia is excited to welcome all children and their families to paradise with engaging activities like Amazing Art with Julia and enjoyable character experiences with them in mind.
Meal Time Beaches Culinary Concierge Desk works directly with executive chefs, sous chefs, and restaurant managers to ensure an exceptional and worry-free dining experience for your entire family. The Culinary Concierge will guide you through all their restaurant offerings and help create custom menus that fit your family’s special dietary needs – including allergy restrictions and gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options.
Sensory Guides are available for each of their resorts. These guides provide a resource for guests with cognitive disabilities and Autism Spectrum Disorder. Here, you can find activities, activity areas, and programs rated by level of sensory stimulation.
Beaches Buddies are accredited staff members who can join the family for an hour, a day, or the entire stay (additional cost).
Autism Week An entire week at the resort will feature events and activities that are specifically designed for, and catered to, children on the autism spectrum and their families.
Interested in this week? Spots are limited, so Register now!
Learn more about Beaches Resorts…
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