Hi, Gavin! Thank you for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel. It sounds like you're planning a magical trip across the pond to see Mickey and his pals next year!
You've asked a great question. Unfortunately,
tickets at Walt Disney World Resort are nonrefundable, but exceptions are occasionally granted on a case by case basis. This is never guaranteed, but if you arrive at the theme parks, and your son cannot go in, visit the
Guest Relations window located at the main entrance. You can also
call Ticketing Services on the freephone UK number 0-800-169-0730. The hours are 4 am-3 pm Monday-Friday, 4 am-2 pm Saturday, and 5 am-11 am Sunday, all EST.
One thing that makes Walt Disney World "The Magical Place on Earth" is that the Cast Members are very accommodating to guests with disabilities. The
Disability Access Services Card (more commonly referred to as DAS) is designed to assist guests who aren't able to wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability (including non-apparent disabilities). DAS is issued at Guest Relations, and guests are given a return time for attractions based on the current wait time. Something else that may help prepare your son is to watch YouTube videos of the rides/ lines ahead of time, so he can get an idea of what to expect.
Another suggestion would be to look into special ticketed events such as
Disney Early Morning Magic and
Disney After Hours. Since Walt Disney World sells a limited number of tickets for these events, there are fewer crowds, and you can get more done in less time than a regular park day. If your son starts to suffer from a panic attack after you've entered the parks, there are places for him to sit and rest while he recovers.
Baby Care Centers aren't just for babies; they are a quiet place where he can relax in peace and regroup.
I hope this helps, Gavin! If you need any more help, remember we're all ears!
Eean