Hello there, Judith,
Thanks for visiting us at planDisney, I’ll be more than happy to give you some tips and tricks to help with this startling noise. I’m a mom to a noise-sensitive boy so I am fairly familiar with all unfamiliar noises. My son struggles with the hand dryers in the bathrooms and will avoid them at all costs. I mean he refuses to even walk towards them. I thought he would grow out of that fear, but it’s never left.
Since he is sound sensitive he wears ear protection on all attractions and during firework shows. We recently found that the bathroom is also a place he needs to have those ear covers on too. Bathrooms at the resort and in the theme parks are busy places in general and the combination of toilets flushing and hand dryers blowing can be a lot, plus the fans, I understand your worries.
I wish there were an on/off switch that could help prevent that startle for your little one, but there isn’t. A recommendation I have for you is maybe investing in a pair of those ear protections to help eliminate the startle. I also found that talking through things and making them “exciting” has also worked for us. When my son is aware that something big is about to happen or change, he’s able to prepare and reduce the shock factor.
Depending on the age of your little one, and their height, I also recommend taking advantage of the
Rider Switch option. This will allow all of the older and taller guests to be able to experience the
attraction by taking turns waiting with the little ones. I also recommend packing a change of clothes for your little one on the day you visit
EPCOT. The Moana-inspired
Journey of Water is so fun and interactive, that I just know your little one will enjoy it. Honestly, the water is so wonderful and loves to play that keeping your little one dry might be a struggle. The backup clothes will come in handy, trust me!
Judith, I cannot wait for you and your family to enjoy all Disney World has to offer. I hope this helps prepare you for your visit and if there’s anything else we can help with, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Magical Memories,
Shantel