Legoland Florida Unveils Sensory-Friendly Features for Visitors on the Autism Spectrum

To make its theme park more enjoyable for everyone, Legoland Florida is implementing a number of changes that will make the park a better place for parkgoers on the autism spectrum. Last March, the park announced it was partnering with Autism Speaks to make a number of sensory-friendly additions to its Winter Haven, Florida location. This April, as part of Autism Awareness Month, the park will unveil those new features.

Autistic visitors will now be able to take advantage of the theme park’s new “Hero Pass,” a free pass that allows those with autism and their families to skip the line at popular attractions. The park will also feature multiple quiet rooms stocked with noise-cancelling headphones, weighted blankets, sensory-friendly toys and tables where kids can play with Legos.

Children with autism can also utilize social stories created by the park – illustrated stories designed to walk visitors through rides and other park attractions so they know what to expect. Legoland is also training its new employees, known as “model citizens,” how to interact with guests on the autism spectrum and their families.

“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,” Karen Bacharach, senior director of Autism Speaks, told The Mighty.

Those interested in visiting Legoland, and living in Florida, can get discounted tickets through the North and Central Florida chapter of Autism Speaks, The Huffington Post reports.

Photo Credit: Benjamin Peacock/LEGOLAND Florida Resort