Hello Katherine!
Thanks so much for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel!
I recently returned from a week long stay at Walt Disney World with my boys, my 7 year old is autistic. When deciding where to stay, I make sure to keep it as simple and streamlined as possible. Since my boys enjoy Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot the most, we often stay at Disney’s Beach Club Resort or Disney’s Boardwalk Inn. They are both within walking distance of Epcot or a quick boat ride to Hollywood Studios. My son doesn’t do well with waiting, even if it’s just for a few minutes for a bus to take us to the parks, so that is our main reason for staying at either of those resorts.
If Magic Kingdom is your family’s favorite park to visit, another hotel that is easy to get in and out of the parks (to take breaks from a long day, or just simply to get back at the end of the day quickly) is Disney’s Contemporary Resort. My son loved this one simply because the monorail goes right through the resort! You can also walk to Magic Kingdom from this resort, making it another great place to stay for our family.
There are busses that go to each of the parks and the wait times are minimal, but we try to use them only if we need to. The noise and crowds and waiting just can be a little overwhelming for my son.
Also, make sure you head to Guest Relations upon your arrival to the parks and talk to a cast member about the
Disability Access Service Card. This card allows you to get a return time for attractions so you can walk visit other areas of the parks instead of waiting in the queue. It has helped keep my son’s meltdowns to a minimum and really lets him enjoy the parks fully!
I hope this helps! See you real soon!
-Emily