Legoland Florida is making its park more accessible and friendly for its guests on the autism spectrum, the park stated in a press release on Tuesday.
Partnering with the North and Central Florida chapter of Autism Speaks, Legoland said they are aiming to make sure all kids can enjoy the park’s rides and attractions.
More:Toys for kids with autism that they won’t want to put down
Taking a page from Disney parks’ books, the Winter Haven, Florida, location will now feature quiet rooms for guests with autism and their families to maximize their park experience. The quiet rooms will feature noise-canceling headphones, weighted blankets and squishy toys to assist with a variety of sensory sensitivities. They will also have, of course, tables for children to play with Legos.
Also available are free passes for guests on the autism spectrum to be able to skip lines in order to bypass lengthy waiting times. Accompanying every ride and show will be “social stories”: illustrated walkthroughs to showcase elements that might be shocking or overwhelming to guests, such as bright lights or loud noises.
More: Sesame Street Introduces a New Muppet With Autism
April is Autism Awareness Month, and the park will donate $15 from each ticket purchased to the North and Central Florida chapter of Autism Speaks. They will also host a special building day on April 22, and will shine blue spotlights on certain miniature Lego landmarks for World Autism Awareness Day on April 2.
With knowledge and acceptance of autism becoming more and more common, these are hugely positive steps for Legoland to take — and hopefully other parks will soon follow suit.
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