"It's so rare to receive a personalized letter, something that you can hold, as opposed to something you just read on a screen," said Ian Gee, general manager of the Sheraton Park Hotel. "There was a lot of detail and passion in the letter. He presented his family and the challenges his family faces and how they overcame them. But what I liked about it was it wasn't a complaint; he offered suggestions."
A behavioral therapist was brought in to train the staff. The hotel's restaurant menu added gluten- and casein-free offerings and was stocked with special adaptive plates, utensils and sippy cups.
The front desk now offers, for free, iPads and tablets, a weighted vest and exercise balls. In the gift shop, adult diapers, swim diapers, floaties and other supplies are available for purchase.
Prior to checking in, the hotel surveys families with autistic children for their needs and room preference. Accommodations are made so they don't wait in long lines. The hotel also offers over-sized stroller rentals and a sitting service that specializes in autism spectrum disorder care for parents who want a date night.
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