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As Summer approaches do you know what a
Certified Autism Travel Professional does?
Please read the article below to get a better understanding of the role a CATP can play while booking a vacation for your family from a local CATP, Kimberly Roos.
My name is Kimberly Roos. I am a Certified Autism Travel Professional which means that I have gone through additional travel training specific to autism. I have also been through the Autism Double Checked certification, a program created to promote inclusion for those with autism in the travel and hospitality industry. I am a mother of three and my youngest son is autistic, so I have been involved with the autism community for many years now.
There are many reasons a family should use a Certified Autism Travel Professional (CATP) when thinking about a vacation. Planning a vacation can be overwhelming for anyone and when you add in the additional challenges that can come with traveling with an autistic person, having someone who knows and understands at least a little more than the average person, can be extremely helpful. CATPs are more knowledgeable about the little things a resort or hotel can do to make your trip more relaxing. Accommodating dietary restrictions, providing quiet areas, providing respite care, and other often overlooked services that many may not consider when planning a trip. Obviously, no place is perfect but there are many that try and a CATP can help you find them.
One of my favorite places to book for families with autistic children is Beaches. They work hard to meet your needs, and at least 80% of their guest facing staff has been through the IBCCES training process! They have a program called “Beach Buddies” that allows you to hire one of their caregivers to be 1 on 1 with your child so you can have a break, some adult only time, dinner, a walk on the beach, or just take a little nap.
Knowing and learning about these little extras is a big part of the process of becoming a CATP. This extra knowledge is the number one reason using the services of a CATP can prove invaluable. Many Certified Autism Travel Professionals have at least one person in their lives that is affected by autism in some way, so they have a unique understanding of the additional stress that is sometimes associated with travel. It is important to me to ensure families who have additional challenges have the same access to vacations and fun as everyone else.
When we first started traveling with my son, we faced difficulties finding good information, and I didn’t know anyone who could point us in the right direction. Once I decided to become a travel advisor, I sought out a company who specialized in serving the special needs community and I have focused on training and helping those with additional needs of all kinds.
The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards or IBCCES offers several different credentialing programs for professionals who are responsible for the support and/or services provided to autistic individuals. Their programs are designed to supplement existing knowledge and ensure they are up to date on best practices, research, and incorporate updated knowledge into professional practice. When you visit www.ibcces.org you can find lists of certified autism travel professionals, amusement parks, zoos, medical offices, educators, and more.
If you’d like more information or are interested in booking a vacation with a CATP you can trust, feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] or https://www.facebook.com/groups/vwtmbykimberly
*Thrive With Autism Foundation is not endorsing this person or business.
*This article is for an informative share purpose only.
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