Hi Patty! What a wonderful ninth birthday present for your grandson! Mickey Mouse is a personal favorite of mine too, and you'll be happy to know there are plenty of opportunities to meet him at Walt Disney World. When you enter the parks, pick up a Times Guide (found near the maps, at the entrance to the parks), and you'll see the locations and times that Mickey and other characters will be greeting guests that day. Just line up at one of those spots at the designated time and your grandson will be able to give Mickey a hug, get his autograph and pose for photos. (Mickey communicates by his own form of sign language himself, so even though your grandson is deaf, he'll be able to interact with Mickey just like everyone else!) If you don't want to line up in the parks to meet Mickey, consider reserving a meal with the characters. The best place to meet Mickey Mouse while you dine is at
Chef Mickey's in the Contemporary Resort. I bet your grandson would love the sundae bar at the dinner buffet, and Mickey and friends will come right to your table to visit with you all! Be sure to request a birthday button from Guest Services for your grandson so everyone will know he's celebrating.
Hope you have a magical first trip to Disney World! Come visit us again at the Moms Panel if you need more help planning your vacation!