COGNiTiON renews autism center certification

COGNiTiON Science and Discovery Center in Traverse City has renewed its Certified Autism Center status after staff completed updated autism and sensory training. The renewal ties into broader accessibility efforts in the region and adds to the center’s inclusive programming for families.

Why it matters: - The renewal signals that COGNiTiON Science and Discovery Center is keeping accessibility training current for visitors with autism and sensory needs. - The certification supports a broader tourism push in Traverse City to give families more trained, sensory-aware places to visit. - The center’s renewal also reinforces its role as an inclusive hands-on learning space for children and families.

What happened: - COGNiTiON Science and Discovery Center renewed its Certified Autism Center™ designation from the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards, or IBCCES. - The renewal was granted after at least 80% of staff completed updated autism and sensory training. - COGNiTiON has held Certified Autism Center status since 2023. - Kimmee Miller, executive director of COGNiTiON, said the renewal reflects the center’s commitment to helping children explore, learn and belong. - A parent who visited the center described the space as safe, calm and joyful for their child. - A COGNiTiON staff member said the training helped the team feel more confident and prepared to welcome visitors.

The details: - Since becoming a CAC, COGNiTiON has added Benzie Community Days, which offer free admission to remove financial barriers. - The center runs Neighborhood Network Playgroups with the Great Start Collaborative of Traverse Bay to support early learning and social development. - COGNiTiON expanded quiet zones and added sensory tools throughout the center. - The center now holds monthly Community Input Days so residents can share feedback on future exhibits and experiences. - STEM Storytime and Teen STEM Nights are part of the center’s inclusive programming mix. - IBCCES CEO and board chairman Myron Pincomb said the renewal shows a continued commitment to making every guest feel welcome, understood and supported. - The center’s renewal supports Traverse City’s Certified Autism Destination™ designation, which indicates visitors have multiple trained and certified options in the area, including entertainment, recreation and lodging. - COGNiTiON is listed on the IBCCES Accessibility App, which offers real-time guidance on certified destinations and sensory-inclusive spaces. - IBCCES also points families to AccessibilityCertified.com and AutismTravel.com, which list certified locations and professionals.

Between the lines: - The renewal is about more than a badge. It helps standardize staff readiness and signals that accessibility is built into the visitor experience. - The center is positioning inclusion as part of its core mission, not a one-time accommodation. - Traverse City’s destination-level autism certification suggests the region is trying to compete on accessibility as well as attractions.

What's next: - COGNiTiON is expected to keep using the CAC framework to guide staff training and guest support. - The center will likely continue its community programs and sensory-friendly updates as part of its inclusion strategy. - Visitors can use IBCCES tools and certified-location resources to plan accessible trips and activities.