Legoland announced they are partnering with Autism Speaks, the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization, to make the park in Winter Haven more accessible for kids with Autism.
The first of several planned projects is currently underway with the installation of a large panel of hands-on, sensory-stimulaiting activities being placed within the theme park.
“Autism Speaks applauds the efforts of LEGOLAND Florida Resort to provide special accommodations so that guests on the autism spectrum can maximize their park experience,” senior director of the Autism Speaks Southeastern Regional Office Karen Bacharach said. “When asked, our Central Florida volunteers were eager to offer some design considerations to help the resort be autism friendly.”
"Quiet rooms," online “social stories” that will provide illustrated walkthroughs of the park's attractions, shows and other guest amenities and other resort facilities designed to meet the needs of guests with Autism are being considered for creation.
Autism Speaks staff members and volunteers will also conduct training sessions at the resort at least twice a year and will supply educational material to better educate employees about the unique needs of kids with Autism.
“We’re proud to say that we’re built for kids,” director of Marketing & Sales at Legoland Rex Jackson said. “By partnering with Autism Speaks and making these smart changes that will benefit so many families, we’re helping to ensure that our resort is truly built for all kids.”
More from Legoland:
On Saturday, April 23, LEGOLAND Florida Resort will sponsor the Kids Zone area during the Autism Speaks Walk at Tropicana Field in Tampa, Fla., and on Saturday, Nov. 12, during the Autism Speaks Walk at Cranes Roost Park in Altamonte Springs, Fla. The family friendly walks are an inspirational and impactful opportunity to raise money and awareness to help change the future for all those who struggle with autism. For more information, visit walknowforautismspeaks.org.
In honor of World Autism Awareness Day, observed on April 2, LEGOLAND Florida Resort is participating in the Autism Speaks “Light It Up Blue” campaign by shining blue spotlights on its whimsical entrance arch (pictured above). Each year, iconic landmarks, skyscrapers, schools, businesses and homes across the globe unite by shining bright blue lights in honor of the millions of individuals and families affected by autism. For more information, visit autismspeaks.org/liub.
To learn more about visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including savings on advance purchase of admission tickets, multi-tier annual passes, special events, VIP experiences, educational programs, services for guests with disabilities and themed accommodations at LEGOLAND Hotel, visit LEGOLAND.com/florida.
