Certification Standards
Evidence-based, family-informed standards that create genuinely autism-friendly environments
Our Mission: AutismCertified sets the gold standard for autism-friendly business practices. Our certification program is built on evidence-based research, input from the autism community, and decades of collective experience in creating inclusive environments.
Our Core Principles
Empathy-Driven
Every standard is designed with genuine understanding of autistic experiences and sensory needs.
Evidence-Based
Grounded in peer-reviewed research and best practices from leading autism organizations.
Community-Informed
Developed with input from autistic individuals, families, and autism advocacy organizations.
Five Pillars of Certification
Sensory Environment
Creating spaces that minimize sensory overload and provide comfort for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
- Adjustable lighting options and reduced fluorescent lighting
- Noise management strategies and quiet spaces
- Sensory-friendly materials and textures
- Clear visual organization and wayfinding
Staff Training & Awareness
Comprehensive training ensures all staff understand autism and can provide appropriate support.
- Autism awareness and understanding training
- Communication strategies and de-escalation techniques
- Recognizing and responding to sensory overload
- Annual refresher training requirements
Communication & Accessibility
Clear, predictable communication that reduces anxiety and supports understanding.
- Visual supports and social stories available
- Clear, literal language in signage and instructions
- Advance information about what to expect
- Multiple communication options (verbal, written, visual)
Flexibility & Accommodation
Willingness to adapt and accommodate individual needs without judgment.
- Flexible policies for sensory breaks and movement
- Quiet hours or sensory-friendly time slots
- Accommodations for dietary restrictions and preferences
- Understanding of stimming and self-regulation behaviors
Continuous Improvement
Ongoing commitment to learning, feedback, and enhancing autism-friendly practices.
- Regular feedback collection from autistic customers and families
- Annual recertification and updated training
- Participation in autism community events and initiatives
- Commitment to staying current with best practices
The Certification Journey
Assessment
Initial evaluation of current practices and environment
Training
Comprehensive staff education and skill development
Implementation
Guided support in making autism-friendly changes
Certification
Official certification and ongoing support
Why Families Trust AutismCertified
Rigorous Standards
Our certification isn't just a checklist—it's a comprehensive transformation of how businesses serve the autism community.
Verified Compliance
Annual recertification ensures businesses maintain high standards and continue to prioritize autism-friendly practices.
Community Feedback
We actively collect and respond to feedback from autistic individuals and families to continuously improve our standards.
Lived Experience
Our standards are informed by autistic individuals, parents, and professionals with deep understanding of autism.
Join Our Waitlist
Be among the first to access our autism-friendly certification program. Early members receive exclusive benefits and priority support.