Worlds of Fun announces implementation of chaperone policy

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Following a brawl involving more than 100 teens during Worlds of Fun’s opening day, the park announced Wednesday that it will institute a new chaperone policy when the park re-opens Saturday.

“For decades, Worlds of Fun has been a place where families and friends come together to enjoy our one-of-a-kind park. Millions of guests have counted on us for their daily dose of wholesome family fun, and we’re committed to keeping that promise going forward,” the park said in a release. “As part of that commitment, the park will implement a chaperone policy beginning Saturday, April 15, 2023.”

The chaperone policy requires all guests ages 15 years old or younger to be accompanied by a chaperone who is at least 21 years old in order to be admitted to or remain in the park after 4 p.m.

Worlds of Fun said the chaperone will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID with a date of birth at ticket entry. That chaperone will also be required to stay with their party during entry, remain inside the park during their visit, and be available by phone throughout their stay.

MORE COVERAGE: Families frustrated by teen fights at Worlds of Fun on opening day

We wanted to “take the pulse” regarding how parents are feeling about the new policy.

Shelly Williams has been going to Worlds of Fun since opening day 50 years ago. Her whole family has even worked there for several years.

“I think it’s a wonderful move,” she said. “I hope it makes it more family oriented, like it was in the past.”

She said it’s really taken a turn and she hopes the new policy will help get the roller coaster back on track, metaphorically speaking.

“You don’t want to think you have to leave early because behavior might be an issue,” Williams said. “There’s things you don’t want your kids to see or get caught up in. So, I think if everyone has to be chaperoned a certain age, it opens it up to families to enjoy it all day like my kids used to.”

The Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the KCPD are in continual meetings with Worlds of Fun, discussing how to best enforce this new policy.

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