Hi Priscilla. I love that you are planning a 1st trip to Walt Disney World Resort. I appreciate your question and have some wonderful resources for you.
The Walt Disney World Resort website has great information regarding
services for guests with autism and cognitive disabilities. The information is very detailed and includes suggestions such as advance ticket purchase, strollers, rider switch, accessing attractions, break areas, companion restrooms and dietary accommodations. Specifically, the Accessing Attractions section has information regarding Disability Access Service.
As you are planning your vacation, I have a suggestion regarding your Resort hotel selection. From my experience,
Disney's Old Key West Resort is very tranquil. It's extremely peaceful and the villas are quite spacious. It's a comfortable Resort hotel and a perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks.
As much planning as you can do prior to your vacation will help your family member to maximize their Disney vacation experience.
While you are at Walt Disney World Resort, you will want to do many of the same things you may do on a daily basis. Be sure your child has a safety bracelet or nametag, have a favorite device or toy with you, continually reinforce good behavior and have a sensory toy with you. I would also encourage you to take ear plugs or headphones for them as the theme parks can get very noisy at times.
Please review the website and let us know what other questions you have. We are here to help. You can also call (407) 939-5277 for general planning questions. Take care and enjoy the magic. Thanks so much for your question Priscilla.