Mom And Son Giraffe
  • On Feb 10, 2014
    Keith from MI Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    we are coming to Disney with our 7 year old grandson who has Autism along with his twin 5 year old siblings. wondered if Disney has any programs or special assistance for our 7 year old? He sometimes will get upset when in crowds

    Hi Keith ~

    ​Planning a trip to Disney with your Grandchildren is always super exciting!

    I have a son with several different types of special needs and he sometimes has complete meltdowns in the parks. Disney provides assistance to Guests with all types of special needs including those with Cognitive Disabilities. They have put together A Resource for Guests with Cognitive Disabilities including Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) which you can find on the link shown above. This will give you some information that may help you before and during your trip.

    If your Grandson will have trouble waiting in a standard queue, I'd suggest going to Guest Relations at the first theme park you visit to request a Disability Service Access Card (DAS). Here are some details explaining how to obtain a DAS and how it works in the parks. You can also find some additional information in this list of Frequently Asked Questions about the DAS.

    If your Grandson has any comfort items, bring them if possible. If he has head phones or ear plugs to help keep the noise level down, bring them. If he becomes anxious, remember to relax and remove him from the situation until he calms down. If you see that he's had enough, pack it up and head back to your resort. You may not get to do everything on this trip but you can make the most of everything you do.

    Please feel free to visit with any other questions. It is my pleasure to assist you!

    Wishing you minnie magical memories :-) Allison V.
thumbnail image for Allison

Meet the Panelist: Allison, Georgia

I'm a Disney-fanatic! I made my first trip to Disney World the year it opened and have grown up crazy for all things Disney. As the Mom of a son with Cerebral Palsy, I love providing recommendations for families traveling with a special needs member. Learn More About Allison

Didn't find what you were looking for? Click the Ask a Question button to open the Ask a Question dialogue box. If you are not logged in a dialogue box will appear to signin in order to ask a question.

To submit your question, please sign in now if you have not already done so.

Ask a QuestionOpens the Ask a Question dialog box.
x

Update Browser

For a better experience browsing this website, please download an updated version of Internet Explorer.


Or you can continue browsing without updating.