An aquarium has become Arizona\u2019s first attraction to be autism certified.<\/p>\n
The International Board of Credentialing and Continued Education Standards recognized Scottsdale\u2019s OdySea Aquarium as a certified autism center. This means families with children that have autism will have the opportunity to enjoy the best possible experience, an encounter that will cater to their needs.<\/p>\n
To obtain this recommendation, OdySea had to complete training that focused on the needs of guests on the autism spectrum. They also had to build required facility options.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe want to provide [people] the best possible experience at OdySea Aquarium every day of the year, not just on special occasions,\u201d said Jessica Peranteau, the director of animal care and education at OdySea.<\/p>\n
Prior to the certification, the aquarium held autism awareness days. They also offered a quiet room for guests who needed a break, and they used digital guides and on-site resources for families who had children with non-visible disabilities.<\/p>\n
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The aquarium opened in Sep. 2016 and has more than 65 exhibits and 370 species of animals. \u201cWe\u2019ve always been connected with our visitors in the Valley,\u201d Peranteau said. \u201cWe want to be the community\u2019s aquarium, and as one of the newer attractions in Arizona, we wanted to reach that community.\u201d<\/p>\n
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Click here for more information on OdySea Aquarium.<\/p>\n