TradeWinds Certified 'Autism Friendly'

For families coping with autism, vacations away from home can be challenging. The TradeWinds Resorts on St. Pete Beach now offers a way for families to enjoy the Florida beaches with confidence.

The Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (CARD) has certified the resort on Gulf Boulevard on St. Pete Beach as "autism friendly." It is one of only five hotels in the United States with that designation.

The Autism Society of America estimates the disorder occurs in as many as one in 150 individuals. The market is growing for places those families can go and have fun.

Parents who have children with autism know how tough getaways can be. Special diets, behavioral problems and difficulty in communication can complicate time away from home.

The TradeWinds resort staff understands the requirements of guests with autism, and they are working to help them out. It makes the St. Pete Beach resorts—the Island Grand and Sandpiper—two compelling choices for a Florida beach vacation. 

Although CARD certified the TradeWinds in November 2010, TradeWinds spokesperson Kelly Prieto said the resort waited to announce the certification.

"First, all the amenities had to be in place," Prieto said.

What can a family expect at a certified hotel?

Employees went through CARD training, learning how to meet the needs of guests with autism. Those handling reservations are prepared with a list of questions to identify any issues before arrival.

A guide to the resort is available upon check-in, listing the activities available at the resort and nearby attractions. They can be mailed to guests prior their vacations, to assist them in planning their stay. That way, families know what to expect.

"Many of the activities are already existing," Prieto said. "They will now be in the social book and calendar, and activities will be noted as autism friendly."

According to the TradeWinds website, the resort offers guests a "safety kit," which includes items like "a hanging door alarm, corner cushions for tables and outlet covers."

Foods for different diets, such as gluten-free, are also available on request. The resort has a snack pack for kids, which can be made with gluten-free products.

Special sensory activities are offered in the TradeWinds Activities Center and the Splash Island Water Park—the 20,000-square-foot floating park in the Gulf of Mexico. The playground on the Gulf opened March 11.

In a "Kids Only, No Kidding" club, experienced counselors supervise a play area for kids aged 4-11.

The TradeWinds staff believes the effort to accommodate families dealing with autism will make them comfortable enough to book a stay. It could give the resort a much-needed edge in local tourism.

The TradeWinds Island Grand Beach Resort is located at 5500 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach. The Sandpiper is nearby at 6000 Gulf Blvd. For more information about the TradeWinds resort and their autism-friendly certification, call 866-547-2961 or visit justletgo.com.