Hi Demetric,
At Walt Disney World, the spirit of the season shines bright, and that magic is truly for everyone! Disney is dedicated to creating an enchanting experience for guests of all abilities, ensuring that everyone can celebrate the joy and wonder to its fullest. To help you plan a seamless visit, I recommend checking out their
Accessibility Planning Guide and exploring the comprehensive resources on Disney’s website. This guide has comprehensive information on rides, rest areas, and more to tailor your trip to your child's needs.
One of the incredible services Disney offers is the
Disability Access Service (DAS). This thoughtful program is designed for guests who, due to a disability, may not be able to wait in traditional queues for extended periods, including individuals with developmental disabilities like autism. To see if DAS is the perfect fit, you’ll need to participate in a live video chat with a Disney Cast Member before your trip. Since your trip is soon, you should contact them as soon as possible to get this service set up.
Here’s how to unwrap this magical service:
• Visit the DAS registration page up to 30 days before your arrival.
• Log into the My Disney Experience account of the person managing the request.
• Click “Request Live Video Chat” to get started.
During the chat, a friendly Cast Member will discuss eligibility and take a photo of the DAS-registered guest. If you’re registering for someone else, like a child or a family member, make sure they join you for the chat to keep the process smooth.
If you’re planning a holly-jolly gathering of friends and family, DAS only accommodates up to 4 people at a time, including the DAS-registered guest. This guest will need to be present at each attraction check-in, and return times can be reserved easily using the My Disney Experience app. You’ll be able to reserve one DAS return time at a time, and after using it, there’s just a short 10-minute wait before booking the next adventure. A DAS return time allows you to enter through the Lightning Lane after you spend the quoted wait time hanging out in a quieter, sensory-friendly area so your kid doesn't get overstimulated.
Here's a little holiday cheer to make your experience even brighter: DAS works beautifully alongside
Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass, ensuring a seamless, merry time for your entire group. You can double up your efforts during the busy holiday season by purchasing Lightning Passes for your crew so you can get a lot done in a short period of time. I find this helpful because the busy season is overwhelming for a neurodivergent child, and they often cannot stay in the theme parks for the entire day without a break.
With Disney’s thoughtful accommodations, your family can enjoy a smooth and magical journey through the parks, filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Wishing you a trip as sparkly as Cinderella Castle at Christmastime and as warm as a holiday hug!
Happy Planning,
Jenna