We know that visiting a new place, including a zoo, can be scary and overwhelming for families who have members with autism or sensory needs. In a park environment, guests can be vulnerable to intensified noises and become overstimulated by different sights, sounds, and smells. Here at Elmwood Park Zoo, we strive to ensure every guest has an enjoyable and memorable experience. In May 2018, Elmwood Park Zoo became the first zoo in the world to earn a certification as a Certified Autism Center. This certification was given by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). It is awarded to organizations that undergo training and a review process, in order to better serve individuals with autism or other sensory needs. With our certification, we have implemented many different procedures and policies to better cater towards each guest’s specific needs.