Mom And Son Safari
  • On Feb 16, 2013
    Iris 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.

    hi moms , well i think i am ready to take a trip. i am a single mom and proud of my two boys 7 and 5 .they are both on the autism spectrum . my 5 yr old just started signing and speaking some simple words, but he is very active and very happy. help me plan

    Hi Iris,

    I am so glad that you are considering a trip to Walt Disney World with your boys. Walt Disney World is truly wonderful as a place to visit with children with special needs. I have traveled the parks with a friend who has a young son on the autism spectrum, and I know that they have had a great time at Walt Disney World.

    Many parents with children on the autism spectrum find it important to prepare their children for what the experience at theme parks will be like. The parks can be loud and very visually stimulating. One way to prepare your boys for this is to order and watch together the Disney Vacation Planning DVD.

    When you arrive at a park, stop at Guest Relations to request a Guest Assistance Card. Using the Guest Assistance Card, if you come to an attraction where the wait seems too overwhelming for your boys, if you show this card to a cast member and explain your need, they will help to find an appropriate place for you to wait. Also if your children are in a stroller and will do better staying there for attractions that typically do not allow strollers, if you show the card to a cast member it might be possible for them to stay in the stroller.

    There are many great resources for children with autism visiting the parks. Go to allears.net and search "autism" for many articles on the topic. There is also a book called "Passporter's Open Mouse for Walt Disney World and the Disney Cruise Line" which contains a lot of helpful information for visiting the parks with children with autism.

    I truly do believe that you and your boys can have a magical experience at Walt Disney World. As you continue to plan and have more specific questions, please do come back and let us know - we on the Moms Panel want to help you to plan a wonderful vacation!
thumbnail image for Mona Leigh

Meet the Panelist: Mona Leigh, Maryland

I am a wife and mother who works in children's technology design and research. When I'm not at work or with my family, I'm often planning a Walt Disney World trip for my family or friends. I'm a Disney Vacation Club Member, and am excited to help you plan your Disney vacation!  Learn More About Mona Leigh

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