Hi there Leah!
I have a 4 1/2 year old Disney fanatic too! Many people find that Disney World is extremely accommodating to its special needs friends, and a wonderful destination for a fun-filled vacation. Disney has attractions that can accommodate a wheelchair (in which your little guy can go directly onto a ride "car" in his wheelchair along with the rest of your family (some examples are Winnie the Pooh, Nemo, Toy Story Mania, and many others.) On some of these rides, you could absolutely opt to have your child on your lap if you preferred to do so. There are other rides in which your son would
have to transfer, and you would be able to decide which of these are appropriate for him. My recommendation is to visit Guest Relations at the first park you stop at, and request a Guest Assistance Card. The appropriate card will help Cast Members operating the attractions better direct your family to the most appropriate entrance. In addition, you should ask for a free Guidebook for Guests with Disabilities, which will indicate on a map which rides can accommodate a wheelchair or ECV and those where transferring is necessary.
I have attached a link (click
HERE) to Disney's site for guests with special needs, that provides much more detailed information than I was able to "squeeze" into my answer. If you have additional, specific questions, you should also feel free to call (407) 939-7807, and a Cast Member will gladly help you. Finally, the independent website,
www.allears.net has some great accounts from families who have visited Disney with special needs kids. You can search "special needs" from the home page if you are interested in their stories and suggestions.
I hope your little pirate-in-training has a vacation that is as magical as he is!
Tanya