Water World Ocean Park Hong Kong Is the First Autism-Certified Water Park in Asia
Stella Tse enjoys splashy fun in the sun at Water World Ocean Park Hong Kong with her son Pok Pok. Pok Pok is quite sensitive to environmental stimuli but manages to explore the water park in a progressive manner, says Stella.
The Water World Ocean Park Hong Kong indoor water park (see also our report in EAP issue 6/2021) has recently been certified as a “Certified Autism Center™” by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES for short). The certification by the Jacksonville/Florida-based US organization followed an audit of the leisure facility’s compliance with certain inclusion standards regarding the needs of guests with an autism spectrum disorder.
Children and teenagers living with such a disorder process sensory input differently than other people and are often more sensitive (over- or under-sensitive) to loud noises, smells or light. Often such children also have problems with social interaction and verbal as well as non-verbal communication. In addition to certification, the IBCCES offers professional training and education on the topic for employees of companies that care for/work with such people.
“Socialisation is a critical part of growing up for all children, but those on the autistic spectrum often find it an intimidating proposition. At the same time, their caregivers – the parents – also experience stress when they cannot address their children’s socialisation needs. We knew that a secure, refreshing yet controlled environment where these families could spend quality time and children could bond with neurodivergent and neurotypical peers was a pressing need in our society. So, we invited IBCCES to assess our facilities and provide expert recommendations and staff training to make Water World an inclusive space for all families,” said Ivan Wong, Chief Executive of Ocean Park Corporation.
Bryan Fish, Executive Director of Water World, explained: “In addition to the sensory guides available for reference, we have included comprehensive information on the Water World Ocean Park website for different types of adventurers to comfortably plan and prepare for their trip. We have also made it easy for them to know what to expect and make special enquiries or ask for help, as our staff has been trained to understand the specific needs and preferences of this segment from the guests’ perspective.”
The Aquatica water park in Orlando/Florida, part of the SeaWorld Entertainment group, was the first water park in the world to be officially certified as an Autism Center by IBCCES. (eap)
