Welcome Aboard, Leah!
I'm happy to hear you're planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation for your family. Let me assure you that Disney goes above and beyond to make sure each and every cruiser has the best experience possible, in a safe, comfortable, fun environment.
Each situation is handled uniquely, depending on the child and his/her specific needs. The Youth Counselors in the Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab will do their best to make sure children are included in activities planned for their age group. I encourage you to speak with the Youth Activities Director on your first afternoon onboard. He/she can reassure you that your son will be able to participate in and enjoy activities offered in the clubs each day.
When you register your son for the Youth Clubs, he'll be given an arm band to wear that's linked to the ship's computer system. When he's checked into the clubs, the Youth Counselors will be able to know at all times where he is in the club/lab, and it also gives them information about his particular needs. If the counselors need to reach you while he is in their care, you're just a phone call away with your Wave Phone.
Wave Phones are issued to each guest at no extra charge, and can be found in your stateroom.
I encourage you to get in touch with the DCL Special Services Team to discuss your son's particular needs, including any accommodations that can be made during the debarkation process.
They can be reached Monday through Friday between 8:30 AM and 5:30 PM ET at (407)566-3602 or by email at SpecialServices@disneycruise.com.
I hope this is helpful as you plan your magical Disney Cruise Line vacation! Please come back if you have any further questions.
Have a Disney Day! - Diane W.