Special Needs At Disney: A How To

*Sponsored Post: I was hosted by Walt Disney World, however, all opinions are my own. See disclaimer here.

I've been going to Walt Disney World my whole life. Even more so in my adult years, as I was able to get myself an annual pass to the parks. Up until a few years ago, I never considered what it would be like to navigate the parks as a "special needs" mom. But, low and behold, that's where I am nowadays.

I first realized I needed help in this area when Miss Quirky was 5 years old. We had been going to Disney for 5 years at this point, and had skipped out on so many rides because she couldn't handle the long lines. When we tried certain ones, like Soarin', that always had long lines, it would end in meltdowns and disappointment. This is a reality that I just accepted. We would never experience Disney the way others did.

 

Disney In A New Light

At least, I accepted it until I knew better. I heard about this thing called the "Disability Access Service" card, so I did some research. Disney finally was offering help for those with cognitive disabilities! This was so exciting to me and my little girl!

On our next visit, we picked up our "DAS" and headed to Soarin'! FINALLY my little girl was able to experience this incredible ride! Since that moment, we have never had another meltdown from rides at Disney and I am so grateful for it. So, here are some tips I have learned in my years attending Disney with special needs in mind..

My Tips

First off, you'll want to head straight to Guest Services when you arrive. Tell them that you need a Disability Access Service card or a "DAS" (they'll know what you mean). The DAS sort of works the same way that a Fastpass does, except you can't stack them. You will still have a wait time, but it won't be in line. This link has pretty much all the info about it!

They ask a few questions about what exactly you need assistance with. Remember that no one is allowed to ask for proof of your child's condition. You may share as much as you are comfortable with! This is something I have only had to deal with once, and I immediately reported the incident to management.

Basically, they want to properly fit you with the right assistance. So, I always tell them that my daughter has cognitive disabilities and we are unable to stand in lines for long periods of time. That pretty much sums up our needs to them, and we move on to getting the pass.

Next, if you use a stroller a lot for you special needs child (I certainly do at Disney), you can get a sticker that is "stroller=wheelchair". That way, you can bring the stroller on with you to certain attractions and rides, just as you do with a wheelchair. When Miss Quirky is having an extra emotional day, our stroller provides her with a safe zone to stay calm and it becomes of great assistance when we go to shows at Disney. It's also great if you just feel like the walk is too far for them, even with that return time (like the walk to Soarin'). Our stroller comes in handy for that trek!

If you don't already have them, grab your child a pair of noise-reducing headphones, definitely get them some! They're fabulous for all the unexpected firework shows at Disney.

If your little one is small enough to wear them---then wear, wear, wear! I cannot tell you how many times I have been able to avoid a full meltdown with Miss Spunky by just putting her up on me. Wearing provides comfort, compression, a safe space, the calm of your heartbeat & voice, and plenty of mommy kisses. Find a carrier that you can wear comfortably for hours, and bring it.

Remember that each and every cast member should be accommodating to you and your child, and if anyone treats you with any disrespect, immediately report it to Guest Services. Typically, I don't get attitude from cast members, but it can happen. Your child should have as much fun at Disney World as anyone else!

Do you have any extra tips for heading to the parks with special needs? Post them in the comments!