From the Netflix Show "Love on the Spectrum," Meet Abbey’s Mom, Christine Romeo 

As autism awareness month approaches, I’d like to give a shout-out to Anaheim. It’s been a pleasure getting to know some of the resources here and seeing the changes being made.  Anaheim allows families with autism to join in the fun. The Anaheim area is filled with so many cool places for people of all ages to enjoy like the Disneyland® Resort, and in nearby Buena Park, Medieval Times and Knott’s Berry Farm.

What’s most exciting is that several Anaheim hotels and attractions have earned the title, Certified Autism Center™ and others are working toward this title. Many of the vendors and employees are trained in areas of autism competency through a certification program— say what? This blew me away.

Just to know that I could be in a stressful situation while on the road - trying to get into a park or in a long line and some of the employees have training and understanding with behavior competency, social skills struggles, and sensory triggers? This made me exhale!! To think that I could bring my loved one into places like this and that staff might understand Abbey’s needs, was truly a blessing.

For example, and this is a true story- we wanted to go to the Newport boat parade with several adults on the spectrum. The line was long and the space was crowded— we parents know this can be a trigger. So, I went to the customer service booth and was greeted by a manager. I explained the situation. He said “Come with me”. We were able to go to a pre-board area where we could sit and wait for boarding in a quiet and less crowded area! It was stress-free! I was so impressed.

We all know the idea of travel can give us anxiety as caregivers because we know what travel entails. Many aren’t aware of certain triggers and accommodations we might need and that’s never fun. But knowing many of the vendors have trained employees that understand the spectrum in a way others may not, is an incentive to continue exploring the beautiful Southern California area of Anaheim.

The program many of the Anaheim businesses choose to participate in helps employees understand behaviors, sensory issues, social skills, and even the parent experience so they can help rather than judge.

Just knowing that staff may “get” your situation with managing the variables that can come up in travel is a big win and makes the decision of where to go for a family vacation a lot easier.

Here’s to autism awareness and gratitude toward Anaheim for making this a priority! I'm looking forward to sharing some travel tips next time!

- Christine Romeo

Accessibility in Anaheim

Everyone, regardless of their abilities, can experience the magic of Anaheim and all of Orange County. Click here to learn more about accessible hotels, attractions, and places in Anaheim.