The entrance to Tiana's Bayou Adventure at Magic Kingdom showcases a vibrant sign surrounded by greenery and colorful flowers. A
  • On Sep 17, 2024
    Rebekah from AR Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hi we are taking our toddler to Disney world tomorrow and I’m extremely nervous about standing in a line and being in a crown (I have severe generalized anxiety disorder, PTSD, and panic attacks). Can disability services help?

    Hiya Rebekah! 

    Welcome to planDisney! My friend, I'm sorry that what could be such a magical day is being shadowed by worry and nervousness. I have a little one who struggles with anxiety and panics in crowds so I understand a little bit of your struggle. I have gotten pretty good at avoiding difficult situations like crowds and longer queue waits so that we can have a pleasant experience as a family. 

    Before you arrive you can speak to a Cast Member via a live video chat. The live video chat is an interview where you discuss why the Disability Access Service (DAS) would be helpful for you. They will make an evaluation and could even bring in a medical professional if further guidance is needed. No matter what the decision is, options and solutions will be provided to help you better plan for your trip. 

    I want to leave you with some tips that help me. I love the nighttime spectaculars but the crowds can be tough. During the Magic Kingdom Park showing of Happily Ever After the space in front of Cinderella Castle can be very hard for my family to handle. As a result, we enjoy the fireworks from Frontierland near Tiana's Bayou Adventure. The projections are not seen but the fireworks are still beautiful and the music is played in this area for guests to enjoy. I also love how I can let my kids dance in place and breathe during what is normally a very crowded experience. Another thing I like to do is watch any parade from this area as well, but be on time as the parade starts here and then moves through the Park and then to Main Street, U.S.A. I also want to reassure you that many of the queues in Walt Disney World Resort have interactive or interesting features that help make the time pass a bit. However, a toddler's patience can be so little and anxiety does not help so consider having a snack or a distraction ready to go just in case.  The Play Disney Parks app is a great interactive way to distract anyone and have fun while waiting. 

    I like to avoid lines by using Lightning Lane Multi Pass. On my last trip I found that by using Lightning Lane Multi Pass, I kept my wait time to less than 15 minutes on most rides. I did have to pay for it but it was especially worth it for my family at Magic Kingdom Park and Disney's Hollywood Studios. 

    I also recommend not rope dropping in the morning as there is a large crowd waiting to enter the Park. It goes quickly but I get anxious with my little ones in that intense crowd. I now like to visit shortly after opening to give time for that large crowd to disperse. Wait times are still low in the mornings before 11 am. I then take a break at 11 am to cool off and reset for the day. 

    I hope this helps and you have a wonderful time. You can do it Rebekah as you are the magic! 

    Happy Planning!
    -Nimmy
thumbnail image for Nimmy

Meet the Panelist: Nimmy, New York

Hey, it's Nimmy from New York! Just like my guy Jiminy Cricket I am your wisecracking and helpful guide to making the best decisions for your Disney vacation! My husband and I work very hard to journey to our favorite place on Earth, Walt Disney World Resort, as much as we can. We have traveled as just adults, with babies, kids, teenagers, and senior citizens. We have seen so many characters, eaten at amazing places, and consumed a ton of Dole Whips. So "give a little whistle" and let me be your guide! Learn More About Nimmy

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