The Most-Inclusive All-Inclusive Resort: Autism Initiatives at Beaches Resorts

Beaches Resorts, the most-inclusive family resorts in the Caribbean, should be on your radar for your next family travels. Beaches Resorts became the first resort company in the world to complete the rigorous International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards and become autism certified.

In addition to ongoing initiatives, Beaches Resorts recently released new Sensory Guides, an innovative resource for guests with cognitive disabilities. These guides allow caregivers and guests to improve their on-property experience based on the sensory sensitivities they may have. The guides feature resort maps highlighting the sensory stimulation scale of public areas, such as pools, dining spaces and sports hubs.

Beaches is also home to the Caribbean’s first Autism-Friendly Kids Camps. Team members assigned to the kids’ camps are required to complete at least 40 hours of autism sensitivity training. The camps feature sensory toys like Dreampads, pillows that help calm children and lull them into more restful sleep, and Twiddles, playful activity/comfort aids designed for those with sensory-related conditions. The resort also offers activities through its well-known Sesame Street offerings, including Amazing Art with Julia featuring Julia, a 4-year-old character with autism. Julia highlights how people can express themselves through art.

Before heading to the resort, parents can call a dedicated toll-free number to talk with a member of the Beaches’ Special Services team, certified by IBCCES. The trained team assists in recommending experiences, advising specific locations to limit stimuli, requesting cleaning products to alleviate sensitivities to smells, and recommending the best airport transportation.

Through Beaches Resorts’ dedicated Culinary Concierge, families can pre-plan meals to accommodate allergies and specific diets. Guests can also request a One-on-One Beaches Buddy, accredited by IBCCES, for their entire stay or just for a few hours.

In October, Beaches Resorts hosts its first-ever dedicated Autism Week for loyalty members and guests. Families with children on the spectrum are invited to come together at Beaches Ocho Rios in Jamaica for daily arts and crafts with Julia, fireside chats with Autism experts, a private dinner and more.