Soaring Eagle Waterpark Becomes the First Waterpark in Michigan
to Earn Certified Autism Center™ Designation

Mt Pleasant, MI.) –Soaring Eagle Waterpark and Hotel has earned the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation granted by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This certification demonstrates the park’s commitment to ongoing autism awareness training to help staff provide a welcoming environment for visitors who are on the autism spectrum. The park will also receive an onsite review provided by IBCCES which includes sensory guides for rides and recommendations to ensure the guest experience is as positive as possible.

“There are many members of the autism community that would love to explore, visit, and enjoy an overnight stay or day at the waterpark. Our team recognizes the importance of servicing guests and their families on the autism spectrum,” said Bonnie Sprague, General Manager, Soaring Eagle Waterpark and Hotel. “By becoming a Certified Autism Center™, we will be able to entertain our autism community in a creative, fun, and safe way. We look forward to providing sensory days with memorable experiences for all of our guests.”

For more than 20 years, IBCCES has been the industry leader in cognitive disorder training and certification for education, healthcare, and corporate professionals around the globe. IBCCES recognized 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 attractions and destinations. IBCCES is the only credentialing organization providing this type of certification, which includes evidence-based best practices as well as the perspectives of individuals with autism, alongside other tools and resources to ensure the program is a long-term commitment and has a lasting impact.

“We know that training and certification is the best way for organizations to ensure they can accommodate all families,” explained Myron Pincomb, IBCCES Board Chairman. “IBCCES is proud to work with Soaring Eagle Waterpark and Hotel to help individuals have a safe and enriching experience, whether they are visiting from out of town or are locals who can return to the park frequently, and we applaud the team for their commitment.”

IBCCES also created AutismTravel.com, a free online resource for parents that lists certified destinations and connects families to other resources and each other. Each destination listed on the site has met the Certified Autism Center (CAC) requirements.

Waterpark Rules

• Swimmers must shower before entering pool
• No running, jumping, diving, or horseplay
• Children younger than 14 must be accompanied by an adult to enter the Waterpark
• Personal tubes, flippers, snorkels and water toys are not permitted
• No coolers or outside food or beverages allowed in the Waterpark
• No glass bottles or aluminum cans allowed in the pool area
• Food and drinks permitted in cabanas or seating area only
• No smoking
• No chewing gum
• Children shorter than 48 inches tall are required to wear a lifejacket at some attractions
• All guests must wear swimsuits; no athletic attire, nylons, jean shorts, or T-shirts are allowed
• Metal fasteners, metal snaps, buttons, buckles, rivets, or zippers are not allowed on swimwear
• Management reserves the right to deny use of pool to guests at anytime
• Photo and/or video may be in use at any time inside the Waterpark for use in Marketing materials and television commercials

For full Waterpark Safety information, please click HERE