This Is the World’s First Aquarium to Become a Certified Autism Center

Meet the world’s first aquarium to become a Certified Autism Center: the Georgia Aquarium.

The Georgia Aquarium, located in Atlanta, recognizes the challenges families with children and adults with sensory needs and dietary restrictions face when trying to plan a vacation. It has responded by partnering with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES) to ensure the aquarium’s staff are trained to properly assist those with autism. Eighty percent of aquarium employees are now able to recognize, understand and communicate with individuals on the spectrum or their parents and caretakers.

Earlier this year, Sesame Place became the world’s first Certified Autism Center theme park.