In a significant milestone for the Japanese theme park industry, LEGOLAND® Japan Resort has been recognized as the first Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) in the country by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This achievement demonstrates the resort’s dedication to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for autistic and sensory-sensitive guests and their families.
Located in Nagoya, LEGOLAND® Japan Resort offers a comprehensive experience designed for children between the ages of two to twelve and their families. With 24 thrilling rides, interactive LEGO® models, and attractions inspired by the LEGO® brick world which are truly immersive, the resort promises a day filled with creativity, exploration, and excitement.
The journey towards becoming a Certified Autism Center™ involved thorough training and certification for the resort’s staff. Yoshi Honda, the divisional director at LEGOLAND® Japan Resort, shared his insights: “The certification process was enlightening for both myself and our team. We gained invaluable knowledge about autism spectrum disorders and sensory sensitivities, enhancing our ability to provide a supportive environment for all our guests.”
Central to achieving the CAC designation was IBCCES’s meticulous onsite review, which assessed current practices and recommended enhancements to accommodate autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals better. One of the key outcomes of this collaboration was the development of sensory guides. These guides offer detailed insights into the sensory elements of various park areas and attractions, ensuring guests feel empowered to make informed decisions about their visit.
Moreover, LEGOLAND® Japan Resort has implemented a range of services to ensure an inclusive experience for guests with disabilities. These include provisions such as complimentary entry for one accompanying person, an Assisted Access Pass for reduced wait times at attractions, wheelchair rental services, and designated rest areas for guests needing a break from sensory stimuli.
“We are committed to continually improving our environment to ensure that every guest, regardless of their abilities, can fully enjoy our park,” emphasized a spokesperson from LEGOLAND® Japan Resort. This commitment underscores their mission to create an environment where all visitors feel valued and included.
Myron Pincomb, Chairman of IBCCES, commended the resort’s dedication, stating, “LEGOLAND® Japan Resort has shown exemplary commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. We hope their leadership inspires other theme parks and resorts to prioritize similar efforts.”
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