Mom and daughter on Expedition Everest
  • On Nov 4, 2011
    Arlene from TX Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    I have a teenage daughter with a brain injury. She is high functioning but we have to be carefull with certain lighting, noises and crowd sistuations. They can trigger confusion as well as serious migraine headaches. How do we best tour parks.

    Hi Arlene!

     

     

    The Walt Disney World Resort is a magical place for many people, including those with special needs. You may obtain a Guest Assistance Card (GAC) from Guest Services (GS) at any Disney theme park. Each GAC will accommodate the bearer, and up to five other members of the travel party, by allowing access to alternate attraction entrances where available. The GS Cast Member will add a stamp to the GAC alerting attraction Cast Members to the special assistance required. In order to use a GAC, your daughter must be present when entering attractions. You won't be asked to provide proof of diagnosis, but it's always wise to bring medical documentation to have handy in case of any unforseen emergencies.

     

    I recommend arriving at the theme parks when they open, then taking a mid-day break at the resort hotel before going back to the theme parks for dinner and evening fireworks. Since your daughter can't tolerate loud noises, bring ear plugs or even noise cancelling headphones. If she needs a break from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks, consider the following. In Magic Kingdom take a ride to Tom Sawyer Island. In Disney's Animal Kingdom ride the Wild Express Train to Rafiki's Planet Watch. At Disney's Hollywood Studios stop by the tables and chairs area near Echo Lake, or sit on a bench in the quiet stretch of Pixar Place across from the empty Soundstage One. Epcot has several open spaces and water fountains that can help anyone refocus. Try to maintain her regularly scheduled meal times and be sure to alert restaurant Cast Members of her needs. Explain that you would appreciate being seated in a quieter area of the restaurant, if at all possible. This will go a long way in ensuring an enjoyable vacation for the entire family!

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Meet the Panelist: Ritzy, Rhode Island

People describe my love for Walt Disney World Resort and Disney Cruise Line as intoxicating and contagious! My family fell in love with the Disney Magic aboard our first Disney cruise with Captain Mickey in 2006. I personally love to spread pixie dust, as I truly enjoy sharing my Disney experience with everyone! Learn More About Ritzy

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