Teaching kids to go with the flow

Natasha Tai

Amusement parks are a source of fun for many families. But for some sensory-sensitive children, they may not be able to share the same joy. As change causes stress for many autistic and sensory-sensitive individuals, their families often face difficulty adventuring around due to the lack of accommodating options.

"Environmental stimulation is critical for children's development because they acquire knowledge about the world through different senses," said psychologist Victor Ching. "But some autistic individuals could be over-sensitive to the environment. They need guidance to adapt to the environment progressively."

To provide a welcoming space for all with different entertainment needs and interests, Water World Ocean Park is now officially certified by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards as a certified autism center.

With many days spent working with psychologists, experts and non-governmental organizations, this certification proves that Water World Ocean Park has inclusive, accessible and sensory-friendly facilities for all adventurers.

"It took a couple of months for us to apply for the certification, getting the expertise from IBCCES to come for site-check and evaluate the facility," said Bryan Fish, executive director for Water World. "We've received the feedback for improvements and we have finished implementing them recently, so we are now officially announcing we are certified as an autism-friendly water park."

Ivan Wong, chief executive of Ocean Park, said: "Socialization is a critical part of growing up, 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 socialization needs.

"We knew that a secure, refreshing yet controlled environment where these families could spend quality time and children could bond with neuro-divergent and neuro-typical peers was a pressing need in our society. So we invited IBCCES to access our facilities and provide expert recommendations and staff training to make Water World an inclusive space for all families."

Each of the park's water facilities have been individually reviewed by IBCCES, with the level of stimulation to the five senses being indicated on a scale of one to 10 for easy reference.

"Families can easily plan ahead by accessing all the necessary information on the Water World website to know which areas or ride experiences are better suited for them," said Ching.

"Parents and caregivers will now have access to sensory guides to the various locations at Water World, which inform them about aspects like noise from the facilities and screams from other visitors.

"They will have the opportunity to start their journey in relatively less noisy areas and proceed to other exciting areas later on their trip."

Water World guides have all received special training by IBCCES to understand the guests' specific needs and preferences. If guests are overwhelmed by environmental stimulations, or are displaying any signs of distress, the Water World guides will be able to help care and guide them to designated "low sensory areas" so they can be temporarily removed from any stimulating factors.

"Water World offers entertainment experiences that range from thrill rides to the more laid-back type of experiences," said Fish. "We have made it easy for them to know what to expect and make special inquiries or ask for help, as our staff has been trained to understand the specific needs and preferences of this segment from the guest's perspective."

This means all families can enjoy the park.

"The beauty of it is that all adventurers can warm up, explore and enjoy the facilities at their own pace," he added. "We promise fun-filled adventures for everyone every time you come back to splash in with your family and friends."

Website: waterworld.oceanpark.com.hk

natasha.tai@singtaonewscorp.com