Disclaimer: We received 2-day park hopper passes. No other compensation was received. All opinions are our own.
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Planning a Disney vacation takes time for any family but when your child has autism - a vacation like Disney takes a little extra planning, careful preparation and a lot of understanding.
Luckily Disney strives to create a magical experience for everyone. The Disability Access Service card is a fantastic accommodation for many special needs families. But a Disney vacation requires so much more than a modified wait time for rides.
Do Your Homework. I cannot stress this enough. You don't just show up to Disney with an autistic kid without a game plan. For our first Disney vacation in 2011, The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World 2014
was a great resource for me. (I had the 2011 edition. It gets updated every year.) The book was like my bible. (I still have it and used it as a reference.) It noted height requirements, rated each ride by age group, duration of ride, when was the best time to go and described each ride in detail (dark, scary, loud etc.) - for all four parks: The Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom.
Other resources include: Disney Parks Moms Panel (official Disney site), http://disneyparks.disney.go.com - search around the site or order a Disney Vacation planning DVD and for every Disney destination there is always a number you can call to talk to someone about planning your Disney vacation. They are always nice and more than happy to help. Another site I found quite helpful, is The Disney Files.
was a great resource for me. (I had the 2011 edition. It gets updated every year.) The book was like my bible. (I still have it and used it as a reference.) It noted height requirements, rated each ride by age group, duration of ride, when was the best time to go and described each ride in detail (dark, scary, loud etc.) - for all four parks: The Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. Other resources include: Disney Parks Moms Panel (official Disney site), http://disneyparks.disney.go.com - search around the site or order a Disney Vacation planning DVD and for every Disney destination there is always a number you can call to talk to someone about planning your Disney vacation. They are always nice and more than happy to help. Another site I found quite helpful, is The Disney Files.
Our Autism Family Tip: A great time to go on rides is right before, during and immediately after Parade Times and/or Firework shows. While using the DAS we found that most kids and families are gathering to watch the festivities - and the wait time for other attractions eases up.
Create Customized Maps. Not only will this help you while at the Parks but it makes a nice keepsake. Go to Disneyworld.disney.go.com to highlight your favorite family attractions. You can select attractions based on: preschoolers, big kids, teens and all ages. Once you create your map, you may print it or order one to be sent to your home. Either way, study it. The Walt Disney Parks are huge, crowded and overwhelming. In case your child has a melt down or in case of an emergency, you will want to be completely aware of your surroundings.
5/2015 UPDATE: As of year end 2014, Disney no longer offers the option to create a customized map. However, if you download the My Disney Experience app - you can select attractions as your favorites and use filters to plan your day.
5/2015 UPDATE: As of year end 2014, Disney no longer offers the option to create a customized map. However, if you download the My Disney Experience app - you can select attractions as your favorites and use filters to plan your day.
MUST KNOW: the 2 Important Places in Every Park. If you have a child with autism, the 2 most important locations in Disney are: Guest Relations and the Baby Care Center. You will need to visit the Guest Relations office to obtain a Disability Access Service card. And in case you are separated from you child, notify a Disney employee immediately before heading to the Baby Care Center - that's where all lost children are taken. Note: The Baby Care Centers is also "a convenient place to feed, change and nurse little ones" for more information click here.
Autism Awareness/Safety. Upon my return, an autism mom friend gave me this great tip. She often dresses her son in Autism Awareness t-shirts when out in public places like amusement parks and such. She says it provides awareness without having to explain anything. Norrin had a few meltdowns while on vacation and some people did stare. I think a cute statement t-shirt (like this one on Esty) would have helped people understand rather than judge. [For more tips, check out my Safety Measures To Take While Out & About With Your Special Needs Kid - HERE]
