Autism Awareness Week at Worlds of Fun

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Autism Awareness Week

Chris Foshee Photo Chris Foshee |
July 12, 2018

A trip to Worlds of Fun is an annual rite of summer in The Heartland. For families with kids on the autism spectrum, this takes some special consideration to ensure the park experience is inclusive and fun for everyone.

Worlds of Fun and the Autism Society have teamed up to present Autism Awareness Week, July 16-22. The park will have a few special features in place to create a welcoming atmosphere for guests with autism and their families, including sensory-friendly shows, quiet rooms, gluten-free food options and more. Click here to download more information.

Worlds of Fun Boarding Pass Program

Long lines, loud noises, inclement weather and other factors can create a challenge for kids with autism, including sensory overload. To help, we have a Boarding Pass Program that allows guests with autism to access rides at a specified time to reduce their time standing in line. 

A Boarding Pass can be obtained at Guest Services during the day of your visit for the guest in need of the Boarding Pass and up to three riding companions. The ride time on the Boarding Pass is equal to the anticipated wait time for a particular attraction, but guests can choose to rest comfortable away from the queue line area, visit a shop, see a show or play a game until their boarding time. Here’s how it works:

  • At Guest Services, one of our associates will ask a few questions and help determine ride times for the attractions you wish to experience.
  • In addition to the Boarding Pass, the guest will receive a “Rider Access Form” that lists the rides and ride times.
  • Once the ride time is reached, guests can access the attraction via the exit ramp to help avoid crowds.

Click here for more information.

 

More Tips for Families with Kids on the Autism Spectrum

Everyone on the autism spectrum has their own unique challenges. Advanced planning for a successful visit is highly recommended. A Guest Assistance Guide is available for download or at Guest Services. This guide outlines specifics for each attraction, including height requirements and health restrictions. Our new Worlds of Fun mobile app provides directions to all locations in the park, ride wait times, showtimes and more. Download it for free on Apple or Android devices. If you need additional assistance during your visit, our staff is eager and ready to assist you.

  • Guests who wear headphones of any type will not be able to wear them while riding our attractions. We have disposable ear protection you can pick up at Guest Services.
  • If you’re separated during your visit please contact any park employee for assistance. We also recommend taking a photo of the members of your party in case you are separated.
  • Please remember for the safety of our guests, any guest who appears hysterical or too frightened to ride will not be allowed to ride at that time. That decision will be made by the ride attendant at each attraction.
  • If you have any doubts whatsoever about an attraction’s appropriateness for the individual with autism, please have someone in your party ride first to make an informed determination.

A Sensory Space is available at the Family Care Center inside Planet Snoopy. Worlds of Fun also provides quiet/sensory spaces at First Aid near Timber Wolf and Oceans of Fun near Beach Bites and the wave pool. Additional tips and facts can be downloaded here.

We are very excited to provide a special experience for all of our guests during Autism Awareness Week. Visit the Autism Society of The Heartland online for additional resources, support and events.