This OKC Museum Is The First Certified Autism Center In Oklahoma

Museums are a great place to learn about history, art and so much more. Oklahoma is full of fun, educational museums for the whole family to enjoy. But often times, museums are not an option for families who have loved ones with autism or sensory needs.

But recently, the National Cowboy and Western Museum in Oklahoma City announced that it has officially become the first museum in the state to earn the Certified Autism Center (CAC) designation!

The CAC designation is given by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). According to the IBCCES website, a CAC designation "recognizes organizations that have a highly trained staff and are fully equipped to serve the fastest growing population of developmental disorders."

In addition to the training, the museum will also provide sensory kits from the Autism Foundation of Oklahoma, which according to AutismTravel.com, includes items to help autistic individuals comfortably enjoy the museum, such as "noise-canceling headphones, communication cards, activity books, sunglasses, and fidget/sensory toys."

If you haven't been to the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, then I highly recommend you spend a day there! You can see traveling art exhibitions, the museum's art collection, and explore a replica of an old western town. The museum also offers a ton of events year round, but the best of all is the museum's Annual Chuck Wagon Festival. You'll enjoy a weekend full of celebrating old western heritage along with delicious chuck wagon food, including beans, cornbread, and my favorite, cobbler. Mark your calendars for next year's Annual Chuck Wagon Festival scheduled for May 27-28, 2023!