Santa Barbara Zoo is the first zoo on the West Coast to become a Certified Autism Center (CAC), which is a designation that demonstrates the Zoo’s commitment to ensuring guests and families with children who have autism have the best possible experience. Parents with children on the autism spectrum often find vacationing and visiting new places to be a challenge due to sensory needs, dietary restrictions and safety concerns. With this certification, guests can rest assured staff and the grounds are prepared to welcome everyone, regardless of their needs.

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The number of people diagnosed with autism and other cognitive disorders is increasing, and the world is becoming more aware of how we should accommodate individuals with special needs. The travel and hospitality industry must also demonstrate that destinations and staff are equipped to offer the best experience possible, whatever an individual’s hidden disability. If not, organizations risk losing those guests to a competitor. Continue Reading →

When professionals who specialize in autism enter their careers, they pledge to do all they can to help those who face the challenge of this often mystifying condition. Some of them enter the world of Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) through BCBA certification to take advantage of the technique’s benefits to help persons with autism shape their behavior to function better in life. There is, however, now a new program that takes a broader approach to the field of autism beyond just behavior. This new program will give a significant career advantage to both those with no prior ABA training and those with ABA experience. Continue Reading →