Surfside Beach becomes first autism-friendly travel destination

https://www.myrtlebeachlife.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2014/02/surfside-pier-300×210.jpg

Surfside Beach SC has declared itself an Autism friendly travel destination.

The community has committed to work with local restaurants and venues on becoming autism friendly. Staff at area businesses will undergo training on how to handle any issues that arise and assist parents to help them enjoy their vacation.

Autism can present itself in a variety of behavioral issues. This often leads to parents feeling judge. Surfside Beach has committed to become a judgement-free zone.

“I felt it was a good idea from a perspective of showing off our town, how friendly we are, opening our arms and offering our town to those who aren’t able to get out due to constraints of having a child with Autism,” said Sammy Truett, Chairman of the Surfside Beach Business Committee.

Surfside Beach will kick off this initiative during Autism Awareness Month in April.

This story was originally published January 27, 2016 at 12:01 AM.