Hi there, Antonella!
Thanks for reaching out to us here at planDisney. As a special needs mama, I am so excited to help you with this question! Disney is committed to ensuring that all guests enjoy a welcoming and inclusive environment. One of the ways that is achieved is through the
Disability Access Services (DAS) program.
DAS is designed to accommodate guests with developmental disabilities who are unable to wait in line for extended time periods. DAS does not allow you immediate access to an attraction, but you can request a return time that is the equivalent of the traditional wait time. If approved for DAS, you will have the ability to select a return time for an experience, which includes many of the character meet-and-greets. This way, you can avoid an overwhelming experience entirely!
Keep in mind, availability may vary. You will be able to view the DAS-eligible options within the Disneyland mobile app after completing registration.
In addition to traditional meet-and-greets, there are always characters roaming around the park to interact with. Once, Alice approached us as we were resting by the Astro Orbitor. She gently introduced herself to my daughter, and they even shared a high five!
Antonella, there is also a sensory-friendly way to meet your family’s favorite characters — by booking a
Character Dining experience! During these experiences, characters parade through the restaurant, and they even come to you. There are plenty of options at the Disneyland Resort: Minnie & Friends — Breakfast in the Park, Mickey’s Tales of Adventure Breakfast Buffet, Disney Princess Breakfast Adventures, and Goofy’s Kitchen.
Recently, I ate at the Storyteller’s Cafe at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel for character dining with a large group of friends I now consider as extended family. As we enjoyed our meal, we interacted with Pluto, Donald, Daisy, Chip, and Dale. They truly took their time in interacting with
each of us, from jokes to dancing to photos!
Bonus Tip: There are a few things I recommend that you do to feel the most prepared for your visit:
- Register for DAS in advance: You can register online via live video chat as early as 60 days before your arrival.
- Download the Accessibility Planning Guide & Recommendations: This resource provides helpful information across various topics, such as frequently asked questions, trip planning strategies, and even “need a break” locations. Trust me, this information will come in handy!
- Review the Sensory Experience Details: This resource provides you with information to assess experiences and prepare coping strategies, if needed. Remember those character dining experiences I mentioned earlier? There are even details about any sensory elements for each of those! This will empower you to plan which experiences align with your child’s needs and which ones you may need to try at a later time.
Antonella, navigating a life such as ours comes with its challenges. Four years ago, I found a place where I felt wholly supported and, honestly, normal. This feeling keeps me and my family returning to Disneyland. I hope that you experience that same level of joy and magic during your upcoming adventure!
If you have any additional questions, please come visit us again here at planDisney!
Sending you faith, trust, and pixie dust,
Karmeen