Ramon’s Village Resort in San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye is now the first Certified Autism Center in the country. The popular beach resort was accredited by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This means that guests with autism and other sensory needs can expect to have a pleasant stay and even participate in activities like scuba diving during their stay at Ramon’s.
The certification comes after the staff completed evidence-based training and certification required by IBCCES to recognize the needs of guests on the spectrum and provide the best options for a good stay. Vice President of Operations at Ramon’s Village, Steve Sherwin shared that for years they have accommodated both new and returning guests traveling to the resort with children of special needs. “When we learned many children with autism are calmed by water and that IBCCES and PADI had developed a program to help dive instructors work with these individuals, we felt compelled to be part of such an inspiring program,” he said.
General Manager Einer Gomez added that they are very excited for the certification. “Our staff is very child friendly,” said Gomez. “At least seven of our staff are certified and excited to welcome families back again to Ramon’s.” The resort’s main focus is on scuba diving and other water-related activities. It now offers free scuba instruction for any child on the spectrum or others wishing to learn to how to scuba dive.
Over the past 20 years, IBCCES has been the leader in cognitive disorder training and certification for healthcare, education and corporate professionals around the globe. IBCCES recognizes that many families with children who have special needs have limited travel and recreation options. In response to this need, IBCCES created training and certification programs specifically for the hospitality and travel industry.
IBCCES is the only credentialing organization providing this type of certification, which includes evidence-based information as well as the perspectives of individuals with autism, alongside other tools and resources such as onsite reviews and customized recommendations, as well as renewal requirements to ensure the program is a long-term commitment and has a lasting impact.
To find out more about the work IBCCES does and a list of certified destinations visit www.autismtravel.com.
