A visit to a waterpark can be a thrilling experience for families with children. However, for parents of autistic children, it can also be a source of anxiety. At WaTiki® Indoor Waterpark Resort, we want families to feel safe and enjoy their time at our waterpark. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of ways to help parents keep their autistic children safe.
Talk to your child about what to expect and how to stay safe in the water. Using visual aids or social stories might help them understand the rules and expectations. This will also help your child feel more comfortable and confident around large bodies of water or on a waterslide.
Next, make sure your child wears appropriate swim gear and a life jacket if necessary. Some parents have said that wearing a harness can also help with protection depending on how your child is feeling on the day of visiting.
We also recommend always keeping a close eye on them and designating a meeting spot in case you get separated from each other. It would also be beneficial to familiarize yourself with the park’s layout and identify any quiet areas where your child can take a break if needed.
Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Our staff members would be happy to assist you and we are happy to accommodate any requests to make your visit as enjoyable as possible.
To promote Autism Awareness, WaTiki® Waterpark will be lighting up our park blue every day of April, and on April 17, 18, 24, and 25 we will turn off the most disruptive features in the park to allow children with autism to enjoy the park to the fullest. To keep up to date on other events like this, check out our Facebook page and Instagram Account @watikiwaterpark.
In summary, we want to ensure that your child has a safe and fun experience at our waterpark and we can’t wait to make a splash with you soon!
