by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 12:20 PM ET, Wed September 6, 2023
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has become a Certified Autism Center through a partnership with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), encouraging greater opportunities for visitors with sensory sensitivities to enjoy the attraction.
In order to complete their certification, the team members had to undergo training to better understand and welcome sensory-sensitive visitors, go through an onsite review and modify certain things to allow for greater accessibility for these visitors.
Sensory guidance signage is placed throughout the complex, especially near entrances to new areas, letting visitors know how they may be impacted by entering the area through a rating system for each sense. There are also dedicated low sensory areas where guests can take a break if they are feeling overwhelmed.
The visitor center also provides an updated Sensory Guide on its website, app and at Guest Services, Information and Will Call for anyone to access.
According to IBCCES, 1 in 6 people in the U.S. have sensory needs or sensitivities, and 1 in 36 children are diagnosed with autism. The need for greater accessibility standards for these travelers is paramount.
“This certification is just one way we are working to ensure that Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is accessible to each of our guests,” said Therrin Protze, COO, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. “The extensive autism sensitivity and awareness training our staff has undergone has already impacted the way we interact with all families and children of all abilities, but specifically those with autism and other sensory sensitivities.”
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is also listed on IBCCES' travel-specific resource for people with sensory sensitivities, Autism Travel.
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