Disney and Autism Photos

[lucigo]

I would love to see what your child with autism loved about Disney. I will start with my son, these were his favorites!
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u57/zookeeperto6/100_9178.jpg
This magnadoodle went everywhere with us. He learned to write pop and bus.
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u57/zookeeperto6/100_9063.jpg
My little collector loved these rocks, could have studied them all day!
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u57/zookeeperto6/100_9133.jpg
To leave the hotel room in the morning we didn't say "are you ready to go to Disneyworld, we said, you want to go sit in the numbers?"

Close runner's up were the carousel at Magic Kingdom and the Keyboard Pool Deck in the 90's area at Pop!

[SueM in MN]

sounds like POP was a good choice for you!:)

[lucigo]

sounds like POP was a good choice for you!:)

Oh yes, we are going back in April, we might even make it to the parks LOL

[preschoolmom]

What a Cutie!

We were there the week after you (Disney, I mean, we stayed at the Contemporary - we have to sleep five :lmao: )

How old is your son? He is adorable! My son is a collector, too - we came home with several new Cars toys... ;) :rolleyes:

[lucigo]

What a Cutie!

We were there the week after you (Disney, I mean, we stayed at the Contemporary - we have to sleep five :lmao: )

How old is your son? He is adorable! My son is a collector, too - we came home with several new Cars toys... ;) :rolleyes:

Ohhh we paid $6 for $3 cars also! LOL And they were the same ones of course that we had at home!! We had 6 in our party, so we got 2 rooms at Pop. Anyway..he will be 5 in May (I'm not ready for that!) Do you have any pix??!!

[stemikger]

Cool idea. My nephew is autistic and he is in Disney right now as I write this. His favoriate ride is Space Ship earth and the last time they went it was closed due to rehabbing it. He had a major meltdown so hopefully he is enjoying the ride now. Other than Space Ship Earth he loves anything and everything having to do with Presidents. So the Hall of Presidents is another biggie for him.

By the way, that last picture of your son in the zero is soooo cute. He is a handsome little guy.

[mazz1]

not disney but seaworld this was my sons best day (photo taken march 07) during the penguin encounter

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a106/mizzy3/pen.jpg

and his best ever meal was the cake at celebration, lets be honest here we do not allow goodies like this at home so this was a very big treat when compared with our usual mealtimes of it's fruit, veg and a battle at the dining table everyday http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a106/mizzy3/flo3.jpg

his favourite toy from the first visit in march 05 was this, it made a return trip too in 07 http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a106/mizzy3/2005_0318florida0048.jpg

get in the way or too close and yes you guessed it we and anyone else who happened to be too close got squirted :eek:

he wanted to take this to school when we came home to show the teacher :scared1: so it went into hiding :rolleyes1

[lucigo]

Cool idea. My nephew is autistic and he is in Disney right now as I write this. His favoriate ride is Space Ship earth and the last time they went it was closed due to rehabbing it. He had a major meltdown so hopefully he is enjoying the ride now. Other than Space Ship Earth he loves anything and everything having to do with Presidents. So the Hall of Presidents is another biggie for him.

By the way, that last picture of your son in the zero is soooo cute. He is a handsome little guy.

I hope your nephew enjoys the new spaceship earth! If he likes computers he will love the interactive cars! Hope you have some pix for us soon!

[lucigo]

not disney but seaworld this was my sons best day (photo taken march 07) during the penguin encounter



Loved your pictures! The one with the penguin is priceless, love that smile! Thanks for sharing them!!!

BTW My little guy was sick last week and after three days of not eating he asked for chocolate cake! Guess who went to the store! :rolleyes1

[mazz1]

Loved your pictures! The one with the penguin is priceless, love that smile! Thanks for sharing them!!!

BTW My little guy was sick last week and after three days of not eating he asked for chocolate cake! Guess who went to the store! :rolleyes1

your little one is a cutie too, i have very few smiley pics and a lot that are painful to look at as we can see him looking blank across his eyes or confused

he has only just learned the art of posing for the camera

i think like any mum we nip to the store and go back on our good intentions when our little ones are sick, after 3 days of not eating i'd be buying chocolate cake too ;)

here is a photo of my daughter (who is also autistic) at disney too, she's at that terrible teen stage :scared: here she is with her frozen chocolate covered banana and a leave me alone/come any closer with that camera and it's at your own risk look about her, oh i remember that day so well :scared1:

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a106/mizzy3/florida07093-1.jpg

[Gabrielsbigtrip]

http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb189/gabrielsbigtrip/Untitled15.jpg

Underwater at the WL pool with his new "SWIM EYES" as he called them. He loves the water.

http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb189/gabrielsbigtrip/july202007018.jpg
http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb189/gabrielsbigtrip/july202007017.jpg
http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb189/gabrielsbigtrip/july202007020.jpg

Playing peek a boo with Mickey!

Our trip was worth every penny to see how Gabriel reacted to the Characters. We liked the food better at Crystal Palace and he does love Pooh too.

and .....we spent many hours with the Heffalumps and Woozles in our very own Honey Pots on the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. He was pretending to lick the honey on the pots :scared1: Not too sanitary but very cute....
http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb189/gabrielsbigtrip/A2007may164.jpg

I will have to say he loved the wave pool at Typhoon Lagoon and loved that we could do some rides together at Blizzard Beach. He loved the family raft ride at BB and I do have pictures but if you think I am posting a pic of myself in my suit.......NOT!

Sorry my pictures are so big...I barely remembered how to post them

[Disneylvr]

These photos are from 2006 and DD was just 3 years old and diagnosed with ASD just 5 months before. She was very unsure about the Disney characters at Chef Mickey's!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/MadScrapperMom/Donald.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/MadScrapperMom/Goofy.jpg
Swimming at our resort, the Contemporary
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/MadScrapperMom/Pool.jpg
The carousel at the Magic Kingdom
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/MadScrapperMom/Carousel1.jpg

[MandM-Mom]

Great pictures everyone, Disney is such a magical place! Glad all your little ones enjoyed themselves on their trips:)

[lucigo]

here is a photo of my daughter (who is also autistic) at disney too, she's at that terrible teen stage


Ohh those days are so much fun aren't they!? My 16yo NT son puts his hand in front of his face every time I try to take a picture!!! Did she enjoy Disney een if she didn't like the camera? :cool2:

[lucigo]

Great pictures everyone, Disney is such a magical place! Glad all your little ones enjoyed themselves on their trips:)

Love your matching shirts!!! We have matching hawaiian shirts from our last cruise and I'll be pulling them out for Ohana next visit!

Your daughter is adorable!

[lucigo]

These photos are from 2006 and DD was just 3 years old and diagnosed with ASD just 5 months before. She was very unsure about the Disney characters at Chef Mickey's!

Aww she is so little! Looks like she had a great time!!! Love those curls!!

[lucigo]

Playing peek a boo with Mickey!
Sorry my pictures are so big...I barely remembered how to post them

I love the pix with Mickey, that is great interaction!! And the underwater one is priceless! Where are the honeypots? We need to catch those next trip!

[Gabrielsbigtrip]

The honey pot is what you ride in on the Pooh Ride at MK.

If you go to YouTube and look for The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh you can actually take the ride :goodvibes

We rode it over and over and over and over and over..................................

[MandM-Mom]

Love your matching shirts!!! We have matching hawaiian shirts from our last cruise and I'll be pulling them out for Ohana next visit!

Your daughter is adorable!

Thank-You! :)

[KirstenB]

Thanks for sharing! I love it when you can get a great picture of them looking right at the camera (something that doesn't happen often with our younger dd Zoe). You guys have some terrific photos.

[lucigo]

Thanks for sharing! I love it when you can get a great picture of them looking right at the camera (something that doesn't happen often with our younger dd Zoe). You guys have some terrific photos.

We don't get those to often either, lots of pix with eyes cut to the side! My oldest did take one of him on our Jan trip that I just treasure...let me find it LOL
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u57/zookeeperto6/DSC03932.jpg
and this one is the two of them together...right after she got her face painted.
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u57/zookeeperto6/100_9082.jpg
http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u57/zookeeperto6/benautismfinnew.jpg

[mazz1]

Ohh those days are so much fun aren't they!? My 16yo NT son puts his hand in front of his face every time I try to take a picture!!! Did she enjoy Disney een if she didn't like the camera? :cool2:


yes she loves disney but only on her terms, once she's had enough we all know about it, she had a bad day that day with bees, she is terrified of anything that buzzes and after a lot of screeching the banana was a much needed distraction ;)

there are some gorgeous pics on here and in comparrison my two seem so grown up

[lucigo]

The honey pot is what you ride in on the Pooh Ride at MK.

If you go to YouTube and look for The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh you can actually take the ride :goodvibes

We rode it over and over and over and over and over..................................

Ok heading over to youtube to find it! As many times as we have been to disney we are new to "preschool disney"!

[Earstou]

yes she loves disney but only on her terms, once she's had enough we all know about it, she had a bad day that day with bees, she is terrified of anything that buzzes

My ds is like that, too. It was so bad for awhile, he didn't want to even go outside!
He has had an aversion to characters for years, so we were shocked last summer when he wanted Mickey ears and wore them all the way home (ME, two airports, flight and drive home). He says it's cool now that he's in highschool! So, of course, my priceless pic is him in his ears!

[lucigo]

So, of course, my priceless pic is him in his ears!

So do we get to see it?? pirate:

[Kaler131]

My DS4 with autism LOVED TOT! But...my DS11 with austism refuses to go on it.http://i225.photobucket.com/albums/dd240/Kaler131/wdwmolly1076.jpg

[SueM in MN]

Lots of good pictures.
These photos are from 2006 and DD was just 3 years old and diagnosed with ASD just 5 months before. She was very unsure about the Disney characters at Chef Mickey's!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/MadScrapperMom/Donald.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/MadScrapperMom/Goofy.jpg
Swimming at our resort, the Contemporary
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/MadScrapperMom/Pool.jpg
The carousel at the Magic Kingdom
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v216/MadScrapperMom/Carousel1.jpg
She looks like she did great. A lot of 3 yr olds who don't have ASD have a hard time with the characters at first, so those pictures look especially good.

[Ctsplaysinrain]

How Do I Add A Picture?

[SueM in MN]

How Do I Add A Picture?
First you have to have the picture on a website somewhere. There is a place on the DIS site to post pictures. Here's a link to the DIS site's photo page. (http://photopost.wdwinfo.com/) Just above the pictures on that page, there is a link to log in - if you have not registered yet, it will bring you to a place to register. Then you can download pictures. Another good site to download your pictures to is http://www.flickr.com/

Once your pictures are somewhere on the internet, you can click on the one you want to post. You need to get the address of the picture; you can do that by right clicking (for Windows) or ctrl click (for Mac). Copy the address.
To put it into a post, look at the icons right above the message window in your post. Click on the second on from the right. It is a little yellow square with a mountain in it. It's between the one that looks like a letter with an envelope and the one that looks like a cartoon word balloon.

[ireland_nicole]

Oh my gosh, ya'lls lettle blessings are soooo cute! I have no idea how to post pics, so you probably won't get any from me. I have a question for preschoolmom though. My DD is sensory avoiding so we were concerned about the Contemporary and the fireworks noise. Could you hear them from in the room? Thanks Nicole

[Ctsplaysinrain]

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q142/Ctsplaysinrain/dis/100_1501.jpg

[lucigo]

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q142/Ctsplaysinrain/dis/100_1501.jpg

Love this picture! They are both glued to the screen in the exact same pose!!

[preschoolmom]

Ireland_nicole - No, not at all. We were in the tower, facing away from the Magic Kingdom. We couldn't hear anything at all in our room. The monorail is actually quite quiet - and we never heard any kind of fireworks.

There is a really cute electric water parade that goes by on the bay side. DH and I watched it most every night - but the kiddos slept through it (they play music pretty loud, but I couldn't really hear it in the room at all).

Hope this helps!

[1stluvispooh]

My DD loved the characters. Especially Chip and Dale. She even let Chip take off her bunny ears which at that time only came off to wash her hair.
http://images.kodakgallery.com/photos2360/4/51/31/54/72/9/972543151403_0_ALB.jpg

[Disneylvr]

I am really enjoying the photos everyone! Thank you for starting this thread.

Although it appears that DD is enjoying the characters at Chef Mickey's what you don't see in the photos is the 30 minute meltdown she had in the restaurant when we arrived. We tried to transition her from a nap to Chef Mickeys way too quickly. We were staying at the Contemporary. By the end of the meal she was okay but Jim and I were emotionally exhausted. We learned a lesson.

Madelyn is now 5 and has different issues but we will still not wake her from a nap to make an ADR. That is probably a mistake for any child, not just ASD. Madelyn is our only child so we are still learning. :)

For the most part Madelyn is a sensory seeker and the more action going on to keep her stimulated, she is less likely to self stim. She hand flaps, flicks her fingers, mouths objects, twirls things, and repeats sounds over and over as her self stims. She is also non-verbal. Someone asked about the fireworks from the Contemporary. For some reason Madelyn did not like the fireworks, even from the distance at the Contemporary. We could watch them from our room window (in the now gone North Garden Wing) but she did not like viewing them outside. We hope the Poly is a little better for her this year. She is also 2 years older.

[lucigo]

Although it appears that DD is enjoying the characters at Chef Mickey's what you don't see in the photos is the 30 minute meltdown she had in the restaurant when we arrived. We tried to transition her from a nap to Chef Mickeys way too quickly. We were staying at the Contemporary. By the end of the meal she was okay but Jim and I were emotionally exhausted. We learned a lesson.


I think we have all made these kind of mistakes :) Our Chef Mickey story isn't too pretty either. I planned months in advance for this trip, soo excited to take my son on the monorail, to meet Mickey, etc. This kid fights sleep every night and we are lucky to get him to bed by 11pm. Well, wouldn't you know, he fell asleep on the bus on the way to MK at 5:30 and slept through the entire dinner. I spent $150 to watch my older kids roll their eyes at the characters LOL

[preschoolmom]

(((((Madelyn's Mom)))))

My Bug (just turned five) had some terrific meltdowns in the World last week. One in Fantasyland was downright spectacular!

We've ALL been there....

:rolleyes1 :rolleyes: :grouphug: :flower3: :upsidedow

[Ctsplaysinrain]

Talking about meltdowns.... Any of you with older kiddies? I know how tough it is when the little ones have meltdowns but then again, people kind of expect to see toddlers and preschoolers having meltdowns. Have you ever had your older Child have one? Matthew is now 12 and has recently had a HUGE growth spurt and has almost completed puberty. He is taller than me and even has the start of a little peach fuzz. He doesnt throw himself to the ground anymore but he will get really, really angry and start screaming stuff such as "everyone is stupid, everyone needs to die, I want to die, and sometimes just nonsensical stuff." How have you handled something like this at a place like Disney? His rages only last a few minutes but I'm sure you can see how horrible it can look to passer-bys.

[mazz1]

yes my 14yr old still has meltdowns that are downright scary and we have a lot of this i want to kill myself stuff going on too with some self harming just starting to happen :sad2:

i'm hoping it's just the teenage hormones and she will calm a little when her body adjusts

she will calm probably just in time for the younger child to hit his scary teens:scared1:

she had a spectacular meltdown with the bees in mgm and epcot, i think people thought we were trying to murder her from her screeching, i just hold her as tight as she will allow and close my eyes so i don't see those looking who think it's good to gawp and that my daughters distressed state makes for good viewing :mad: i hold and hope it will blow over fast whils't i hear my husband reassure the younger one and asking people what do they think they are looking at:mad:

it's so strange after a meltdown how you can look again from anything to a few minutes to an hour later and see a totally different child

[Kaler131]

Talking about meltdowns.... Any of you with older kiddies? I know how tough it is when the little ones have meltdowns but then again, people kind of expect to see toddlers and preschoolers having meltdowns. Have you ever had your older Child have one? Matthew is now 12 and has recently had a HUGE growth spurt and has almost completed puberty. He is taller than me and even has the start of a little peach fuzz. He doesnt throw himself to the ground anymore but he will get really, really angry and start screaming stuff such as "everyone is stupid, everyone needs to die, I want to die, and sometimes just nonsensical stuff." How have you handled something like this at a place like Disney? His rages only last a few minutes but I'm sure you can see how horrible it can look to passer-bys.

I am right there with ya! :hug: My DS11 has melt downs like that and people look at us like we are crazy! He is taller than me now (he has always been taller than most kids his age) so he REALLY gets the strange and rude looks from people who don't know he has autism. :upsidedow :scared:

[lucigo]

My DS4 with autism LOVED TOT! But...my DS11 with austism refuses to go on it.

Wow your son is brave!! I can't imagine taking my 4yo on TOT, I thought he was going to have a heart attack on Dinosaur! Afterwards he kept trying to point his stroller toward the entrance so we could go home!

[PrincessKell]

HEre is one from our first trip! you can tell she was not diggin Mickey.

http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Picture128.jpg

[PrincessKell]

Oh we have been through some DL meltdowns as well! But its totally a learning experience. We ended up skipping TWO character meals. We missed Goofy's Kitchen, and Minnie's Breakfast. I was bummed at first then thought, she isn't up to it, its better to miss out then give my kid a sensory overload and have to miss most of our vacation. We learned, and totally ok with it. Next time we will go for longer period of time and spread things out much more.


This is my door loving daughter. Georgia went to EVERY door in toontown, and what having such a blast just trying to open them. THANKFULLY, she didn't get upset when they never opened.
http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007269.jpg

My Dh tried to get dd to look at the camera for most of this ride, haha this is the best picture out of all of them. What do you expect. THere was so much to look at who would want to take a picture then!
http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007175.jpg

This one is my "proud mommy moment" DD got on one of the horses for the first time in 3 years! the first time we put her on one, she had a meltdown that lasted HOURS. We learned then never to do it again. She always wanted to go on them, but always ended up on the benches, and it was rare if we got her on those. This time she was so ready, and proud of herself for getting on the horse. At first she wasn't sure, but then Her face just shows my mommy moment. I was bawling, I had no make up left after that ride. I was sooo happy. Just over joyed that my little girl was able to over come and ride on something like that was totally worth all the money in the world. People were looking at us on the ride, and I was telling EVERYONE! "Its her first time, and she LOVES it." Even the CM asked us if she was Autistic and I said yes, they let us ride again. there was a HUGE line (we did have a GAC) but we didn't have to get off. that was the best moment in my life so far (beside giving birth.)
http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007406.jpg

[SueM in MN]

Just over joyed that my little girl was able to over come and ride on something like that was totally worth all the money in the world. People were looking at us on the ride, and I was telling EVERYONE! "Its her first time, and she LOVES it." Even the CM asked us if she was Autistic and I said yes, they let us ride again. there was a HUGE line (we did have a GAC) but we didn't have to get off. that was the best moment in my life so far (beside giving birth.)
http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007406.jpg
I can see all of that in this photo. You can just see by looking at her how important it was to her.

[preschoolmom]

That picture on the carousal is priceless!

:lovestruc :lovestruc :lovestruc

[PrincessKell]

here are a few more.

Georgia's favortie Lilo. She was so excited to see her. She totally was not ok with Stitch which at first I was shocked, but I knew it might happen. so I wasn't heart broken. But Lilo was playing patty cake with her for about ten minutes!
http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007122-1.jpg

This is our daily trip to the first aid station. hahaha Had to have the earplugs. Even thought we still had the ones from the day before, it became a short little "must" the first thing we did in the park was head there. you can see her little "lost tag" on her pants. She kept saying "If I'm lost, pull on my pants" hahaha
http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007180.jpg

This was our life saver. We were able to sit in these before getting on many rides. She got the feel of the seats before trying the actual ride. Another first. It was our last day and she went on Dumbo, the horses, the storybook boats, and Nemo! That was the best trip ever. Still wasn't able to see Santa, but heck that is ok! haha
http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007196.jpg

[MandM-Mom]

Oh we have been through some DL meltdowns as well! But its totally a learning experience. We ended up skipping TWO character meals. We missed Goofy's Kitchen, and Minnie's Breakfast. I was bummed at first then thought, she isn't up to it, its better to miss out then give my kid a sensory overload and have to miss most of our vacation. We learned, and totally ok with it. Next time we will go for longer period of time and spread things out much more.


This is my door loving daughter. Georgia went to EVERY door in toontown, and what having such a blast just trying to open them. THANKFULLY, she didn't get upset when they never opened.
http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007269.jpg

My Dh tried to get dd to look at the camera for most of this ride, haha this is the best picture out of all of them. What do you expect. THere was so much to look at who would want to take a picture then!
http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007175.jpg

This one is my "proud mommy moment" DD got on one of the horses for the first time in 3 years! the first time we put her on one, she had a meltdown that lasted HOURS. We learned then never to do it again. She always wanted to go on them, but always ended up on the benches, and it was rare if we got her on those. This time she was so ready, and proud of herself for getting on the horse. At first she wasn't sure, but then Her face just shows my mommy moment. I was bawling, I had no make up left after that ride. I was sooo happy. Just over joyed that my little girl was able to over come and ride on something like that was totally worth all the money in the world. People were looking at us on the ride, and I was telling EVERYONE! "Its her first time, and she LOVES it." Even the CM asked us if she was Autistic and I said yes, they let us ride again. there was a HUGE line (we did have a GAC) but we didn't have to get off. that was the best moment in my life so far (beside giving birth.)
http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007406.jpg


It looks magical! I got tears just reading your story, so glad she enjoyed herself you can see the delight in her eyes:)

[lucigo]

This one is my "proud mommy moment" DD got on one of the horses for the first time in 3 years! the first time we put her on one, she had a meltdown that lasted HOURS. We learned then never to do it again. She always wanted to go on them, but always ended up on the benches, and it was rare if we got her on those. This time she was so ready, and proud of herself for getting on the horse. At first she wasn't sure, but then Her face just shows my mommy moment. I was bawling, I had no make up left after that ride. I was sooo happy. Just over joyed that my little girl was able to over come and ride on something like that was totally worth all the money in the world. People were looking at us on the ride, and I was telling EVERYONE! "Its her first time, and she LOVES it." Even the CM asked us if she was Autistic and I said yes, they let us ride again. there was a HUGE line (we did have a GAC) but we didn't have to get off. that was the best moment in my life so far (beside giving birth.)


Awww this brings tears to my eyes, and what a beautiful picture to remember it by!!!!

[MarieS]

I love the picture on the carousel! Thanks for sharing it!

[PrincessKell]

Thanks everyone. I love telling it. I would shout it from the rooftops if I could. I get all emotional just talking about it most of the time!

[sl_underwood]

Thank you all for sharing your pics and stories. I will be taking my ASD son for the first time in 37 days to WDW and I am nervous and excited. Keep sharing your inspirational stories, pics, and advice.

[ireland_nicole]

Princess Kell; WOW; that moment is just amazing! I'm so glad you captured it on film. I can definitely relate to a ton of pictures just staring into space or grimacing into the camera- Thank God for digital cameras!

Preschool mom: Thanks for the contemporary info. I have a DD who is sensory avoiding and a DS who is sensory seeking. We like to mix it up in our family. I'd like to stay a little closer (right now we are booked at PORS and planning to use our car-we can park in handicapped parking d/t my mobility issues.) But I was worried because I have read elsewhere that it can be loud. I appreciate your info.
Nicole

[lucigo]

Thank you all for sharing your pics and stories. I will be taking my ASD son for the first time in 37 days to WDW and I am nervous and excited. Keep sharing your inspirational stories, pics, and advice.

Have a great time. Like with everything, go with no expectations and let him enjoy whatever he finds amazing about Disney World! Can't wait to see your pictures!

[PrincessKell]

Here you can see she is pulling my hair sooooo hard! hahaha she really wanted to go up to see Minnie, we went up three other times and got closer each time so before Minnie was leaving they asked us if we wanted to try again. They were so great.
http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007117-1.jpg
This was her first time on this ride and can I tell you she HATED it. It was the bumps when it jumped tracks. Oh lord we had to stop early to get off.
http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007137-1.jpg


Here she is in the tea cup before going on it. again, we loved these!
http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007171.jpg

[lucigo]

Here she is in the tea cup before going on it. again, we loved these!
http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007171.jpg

We may have to try those next time if they aren't too crowded. Ben was really anxious of most all the rides. We have recently found youtube and have been watching lots of rides and fireworks displays and it really seems to be helping. He hated Barnstormer in January. The first time we watched Barnstormer on youtube he said it was scary, but then the 2nd time he said "play it again" and now he enjoys watching it. Hopefully now he will know what to expect, how long it lasts, etc and will like riding it! Now the funny thing is he loves watching the countdown to blastoff of Mission Space but there is no way I'm taking him on it! LOL :rotfl2:

[welovedis]

http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j273/luvbugcreations/Disneyland2007406.jpg

This picture is captivating beyond words!:goodvibes

[welovedis]

Here are some that I love.
First one is from our very first trip when DS was a little over 3 1/2 in Ariel's Grotto (no longer there) in Sept 2000 :

http://www.flickr.com/photos/24117665@N05/2291392495/

This is from Sept 2006, waiting in the GF lobby while we checked in:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/24117665@N05/2292181016/

And this is from MNSSHP (same trip) dressed as a doctor with his scrubs and cap:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/24117665@N05/2292182310/

[welovedis]

ugh, any idea why my pics from flikr won't show up? I linked correctly using the IMG button...

Here's the links in order:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/24117665@N05/2291392495/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/24117665@N05/2292181016/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/24117665@N05/2292182310/

[lucigo]

ugh, any idea why my pics from flikr won't show up? I linked correctly using the IMG button...

Here's the links in order:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/24117665@N05/2291392495/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/24117665@N05/2292181016/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/24117665@N05/2292182310/

Not sure why they didn't work imbedded, but I was able to see them from the links, very cute! My son is only 4 but its always good to see pix like yours and think maybe one day he will be able to "pretend" enough to be able to dress up like a doctor, or something else and get it, ya know? Tell you son he makes a very handsome doctor!

We have never been to Ariels grotto so I didn't even know there was a fountain back there...good info for future visits!! Looks like fun!

[welovedis]

Not sure why they didn't work imbedded, but I was able to see them from the links, very cute! My son is only 4 but its always good to see pix like yours and think maybe one day he will be able to "pretend" enough to be able to dress up like a doctor, or something else and get it, ya know? Tell you son he makes a very handsome doctor!

We have never been to Ariels grotto so I didn't even know there was a fountain back there...good info for future visits!! Looks like fun!

Thanks Luci, I told him & he just grinned & said to say thanks to you. To clarify he has Asperger's Syndrome and is doing really fantastic these past few years. He even wrote a book about himself called "The Same But Different...Explaining my life with Asperger's Syndrome" to share with kids in school about his differences but about how everyone is really a bit different in their own way. It went over really well & when we moved to a new school district (and a whole new way of life--suburbs to rural) he did great.

Oh--and Ariel's Grotto, at least the way it was pictured, no longer exists that way IIRC, it was torn down for the Pooh Playground..I think!

[mazz1]

such lovely pictures i especially like the carousel ones and the teacups such a gorgeous princess princess:

here's a younger one of my daughter in paris 05 in "the hiccups" as she calls them with granny and her brother, you guessed it the idea is to spin so fast they make you hiccup :laughing:

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a106/mizzy3/disneylandparis063.jpg

and here's James also paris 05 and he's not too keen with mr smead touching him

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a106/mizzy3/disneylandparis080.jpg

[lucigo]

[QUOTE=welovedis;23434687] He even wrote a book about himself called "The Same But Different...Explaining my life with Asperger's Syndrome" to share with kids in school about his differences but about how everyone is really a bit different in their own way. It went over really well & when we moved to a new school district (and a whole new way of life--suburbs to rural) he did great.
QUOTE]

Wow, maybe you should think about having it published!

[sl_underwood]

Thanks Luci, I told him & he just grinned & said to say thanks to you. To clarify he has Asperger's Syndrome and is doing really fantastic these past few years. He even wrote a book about himself called "The Same But Different...Explaining my life with Asperger's Syndrome" to share with kids in school about his differences but about how everyone is really a bit different in their own way. It went over really well & when we moved to a new school district (and a whole new way of life--suburbs to rural) he did great.

Oh--and Ariel's Grotto, at least the way it was pictured, no longer exists that way IIRC, it was torn down for the Pooh Playground..I think!


That is awesome! I would love to read it sometime. I think it would provide so much insight to not only other children but parents of children with ASD. Please look into publishing his book.

[ireland_nicole]

Karen;
I'd love to read it, too. Your son is so handsome.

I can't get over how cute everybody's kids are

Nicole

[Earstou]

So do we get to see it?? pirate:I wish I could post it, but with ds being in high school, I don't think I should. I wouldn't want one of his classmates to recognize him and make fun of him.
He wouldn't want me to post them, either!
My pics of ds from earlier trips are of him standing three or four feet away from the characters, or hiding behind another family member. Happily he now sometimes poses for pictures, and even asks me to take some.

I do love looking at other's pictures! The carousel one is priceless, the gleam in her eyes is amazing.

[MsStinkerBelle]

Here's a few photos I have to share. These were taken about two weeks after she was diagnosed as being on the ASD spectrum (PDD).

We stayed at the Polynesian and here is my daughter on the patio with her Pal Mickey:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p195/foxybrownsgc/PolynesianResort/PC210381.jpg

The Polynesian became our 'oasis' away from the overstimulation in the parks. My daughter is sensory-seeking so all the lush foliage, Hawaiian music and the beach (not to mention the volcano pool) is really relaxing for her.

It was actually her idea to buy Pal Mickey with her Christmas money and turned out to be the best thing for her! He keeps her entertained and she's always so excited when he starts shaking and she says, "What's that, Mickey?"

My DD Avery at the Hollywood and Vine breakfast
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p195/foxybrownsgc/DisneyWorld2006/PC202174_Avery_Play_N_Dine_2.jpg

Avery is a born performer and had the time of her life at the Hollywood and Vine breakfast with the characters. Afterwards the CM came up to me and told me how wonderful of a voice my DD has. It just reinforced to me how special she is!

The both of us with 'Pirate' Minnie Mouse on the Disney Wonder
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p195/foxybrownsgc/DisneyWorld2006/PC230433.jpg

Minnie Mouse is Avery's favorite non-Princess Character. Actually she's tied with Lilo for this honor. She thought it was cool that the characters 'followed' us on the cruise ship!

Avery heads for breakfast at Cinderella's Castle
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p195/foxybrownsgc/DisneyWorld2006/PC181995.jpg

This photo brings tears to my eyes each time I see it. The World is where she feels she belongs so easily. She makes so much progress from every trip we make there!

[freckles and boo]

Wow. Great pics, everyone!!! If this thread isn't completely buried in April I hope to have some photos of my little one, too.

MsStinkerBelle - how was the Playhouse Disney character meal at H&V?

[lucigo]

Avery heads for breakfast at Cinderella's Castle
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p195/foxybrownsgc/DisneyWorld2006/PC181995.jpg

This photo brings tears to my eyes each time I see it. The World is where she feels she belongs so easily. She makes so much progress from every trip we make there!

Love this picture!! She is beautiful, the pix at the poly are wonderful, I can just see her enjoying all the sensory there!!

[lucigo]

Wow. Great pics, everyone!!! If this thread isn't completely buried in April I hope to have some photos of my little one, too.

MsStinkerBelle - how was the Playhouse Disney character meal at H&V?

We get back April 7th, I'll help you dig it out! princess:

[OneLittleSpark]

Avery heads for breakfast at Cinderella's Castle
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p195/foxybrownsgc/DisneyWorld2006/PC181995.jpg


Wow! This photo is amazing! Looks like it should be in a Disney brochure! :thumbsup2

All the photos on this thread are wonderful! You've all got such adorable kids, and even when they're refusing to look at the camera, you can see what a wonderful time they're having! Disney truly is the best medicine, isn't it? :goodvibes

[SmallWorld71]

Wow your son is brave!! I can't imagine taking my 4yo on TOT, I thought he was going to have a heart attack on Dinosaur! Afterwards he kept trying to point his stroller toward the entrance so we could go home!

FWIW - My DS9 (not ASD) loves TOT and rode it multiple times. He went on Dinosaur once on our last trip (at 8) and said never again! He said it was scary and NOT FUN!

MsStinkerBelle - I totally agree about the Cinderalla/ castle photo! That would be a great PR pic for Disney. It's just beautiful.

[1Prince3Princesses]

Here's a few photos I have to share. These were taken about two weeks after she was diagnosed as being on the ASD spectrum (PDD).

We stayed at the Polynesian and here is my daughter on the patio with her Pal Mickey:

http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p195/foxybrownsgc/PolynesianResort/PC210381.jpg

The Polynesian became our 'oasis' away from the overstimulation in the parks. My daughter is sensory-seeking so all the lush foliage, Hawaiian music and the beach (not to mention the volcano pool) is really relaxing for her.

It was actually her idea to buy Pal Mickey with her Christmas money and turned out to be the best thing for her! He keeps her entertained and she's always so excited when he starts shaking and she says, "What's that, Mickey?"

My DD Avery at the Hollywood and Vine breakfast
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p195/foxybrownsgc/DisneyWorld2006/PC202174_Avery_Play_N_Dine_2.jpg

Avery is a born performer and had the time of her life at the Hollywood and Vine breakfast with the characters. Afterwards the CM came up to me and told me how wonderful of a voice my DD has. It just reinforced to me how special she is!

The both of us with 'Pirate' Minnie Mouse on the Disney Wonder
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p195/foxybrownsgc/DisneyWorld2006/PC230433.jpg

Minnie Mouse is Avery's favorite non-Princess Character. Actually she's tied with Lilo for this honor. She thought it was cool that the characters 'followed' us on the cruise ship!

Avery heads for breakfast at Cinderella's Castle
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p195/foxybrownsgc/DisneyWorld2006/PC181995.jpg

This photo brings tears to my eyes each time I see it. The World is where she feels she belongs so easily. She makes so much progress from every trip we make there!

I Love the photos! I can totally relate with the comment you made about progress with every trip to WDW. I always say that about my son. He will be 5 in May and has been to WDW 4x so far. Everytime we are there, he seems to make more progress with the 1-2 week trip vs. months of therapy @ Preschool and with his TSS. We're in PA, too. Thanks for sharing!

[1Prince3Princesses]

Here are a few pics of my son who is diagnosed with Autism (PPD/NOS) @ WDW with his sisters. I love these pictures, but I couldn't get the yellow spoon from him all day. He grabbed it from our room before heading to the Castle for breakfast and there was NO WAY we could distract him to get it. So, We have great pictures of him with that yellow spoon. http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb143/1prince3princesses/image079.jpg http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb143/1prince3princesses/image115.jpg http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb143/1prince3princesses/PICT29762.jpg http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb143/1prince3princesses/PICT29822.jpg

[PrincessKell]

Avery heads for breakfast at Cinderella's Castle
http://i128.photobucket.com/albums/p195/foxybrownsgc/DisneyWorld2006/PC181995.jpg

This photo brings tears to my eyes each time I see it. The World is where she feels she belongs so easily. She makes so much progress from every trip we make there!

That is one beautiful picture. I just adore that one. I hope that is blown up and framed.

[PrincessKell]

Here are a few pics of my son who is diagnosed with Autism (PPD/NOS) @ WDW with his sisters. I love these pictures, but I couldn't get the yellow spoon from him all day. He grabbed it from our room before heading to the Castle for breakfast and there was NO WAY we could distract him to get it. So, We have great pictures of him with that yellow spoon. http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb143/1prince3princesses/image079.jpg http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb143/1prince3princesses/image115.jpg http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb143/1prince3princesses/PICT29762.jpg http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb143/1prince3princesses/PICT29822.jpg

Hey I know that little guy! I still love how serious all the girls look in that picture! haha I love the Prince outfit.

That picture with Cindy is so sweet!

Oh we had a spoon issue today! I was able to get it from Georgia after 9 hours.

[MandM-Mom]

More great pictures everyone, I love "Prince Charming" absolutely adorable:)

[SueM in MN]

Here are a few pics of my son who is diagnosed with Autism (PPD/NOS) @ WDW with his sisters. I love these pictures, but I couldn't get the yellow spoon from him all day. He grabbed it from our room before heading to the Castle for breakfast and there was NO WAY we could distract him to get it. So, We have great pictures of him with that yellow spoon.
Obviously, that spoon came in handy for him.;)
It reminds me of Dumbo, where Dumbo did not think he could fly unless he was holding the "magic" feather in his trunk. He could fly, but the magic of the feather was the confidence it gave him.
Your pictures are wonderful and it looks like the "magic" spoon probably helped him bring a little bit of a 'safe' place with him.:goodvibes

[MarieS]

I love seeing everyone's pix! My boys aren't autistic, but I could definitely relate to the spoon story. My boys will sometimes want to hold the same object all day too--most recently it was my old 2005 guide to WDW! LOL

[luvdzny]

Thanks for sharing the pictures of your beautiful children!!! DD (18) is a therapist for children with Autism. she says it is very challenging at times but also very rewarding; she really loves working with these kids. I can't wait to share this thread with her.

[lucigo]

I'm digging this thread out to add pix from our spring break trip :beach:

http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u57/zookeeperto6/DSC04153.jpg

http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u57/zookeeperto6/DSC04197.jpg

http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u57/zookeeperto6/IMG_0879.jpg

[disney-super-mom]

Here's our 2 boys at DL last October (we were there over Halloween and had a terrific time). Ryan (8) is on the left and is our autistic guy, and his little brother Luke (4) is on the right. They were waiting for their dad to rent strollers and being very patient. Normally Ryan kind of stiffens up and pulls away when he's touched, but here when Luke reached up to touch Ryan's face, Ryan actually leaned into it. I just thought it was a sweet moment between two brothers.:hug:
http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r312/caprinjustin/Disneyland%202007/DSCI0160.jpg


Here's Ryan with his dad driving in Autopia at Disneyland. Ryan LOVES driving and cars. When he grows up he says he wants to be a race car driver and a bus driver, and he's already talking about when he gets his drivers license. Oh boy............:goodvibes
http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r312/caprinjustin/Disneyland%202007/DSCI0087.jpg

And of course what's a trip to Tomorrowland (where we spend the majority of our time) without riding the Astro Orbitor. Not my favorite ride, but Ryan loves it!
http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r312/caprinjustin/Disneyland%202007/DSCI0008.jpg

[lucigo]

And of course what's a trip to Tomorrowland (where we spend the majority of our time) without riding the Astro Orbitor. Not my favorite ride, but Ryan loves it!

What a great smile! Love that last picture!

[disney-super-mom]

Here's Ryan in October 2006 with his dad on IASW. It's amazing how much they change in a year!
http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r312/caprinjustin/IM002193-1.jpg

I don't know about other boys, but my little guys LOVE the Pixar characters. Again, this is October 2006, and Ryan is 7 and Luke is 3. We just happened to be walking by when all of a sudden Buzz walked out. No one in line yet, so ya know......PICTURE TIME!:thumbsup2
http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r312/caprinjustin/IM002245.jpg

I don't know about other autistic children, but Ryan is a fish. He loves swimming so much and will stay in a pool for hours, literally until he's blue with cold, because he's having so much fun. I think he went down the slide at the Paradise Pier Hotel (at DL) about 500 times while we were there. It was here where, for the first time, a guest (who happens to be a special ed teacher) noticed that Ryan was a little different and asked us if he was autistic. He was impressed with how well Ryan could communicate and interact. Most parents take their child's ability to talk and communicate for granted, but I have to say, that was a very proud moment for me. Ryan's worked on his speech SO HARD over the years, and apparently it shows.:yay:
http://i147.photobucket.com/albums/r312/caprinjustin/IM002212.jpg

[disneydeb]

our babies truly are our miracles. :flower3:

[disneydeb]

1 prince and 3 princesses, where did you get the prince charming costume? :cool1:

[sl_underwood]

Thank you all for sharing your wonderful photos and advice with me. We just got back yesterday and had a wonderful trip. I would love to share all the wonderful pictures of my son with you but as he is still not officially my son, his caseworker stated I cannot put his face on any website so here are a few I can share.

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q59/sl_underwood/Tigger1-1.jpg

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q59/sl_underwood/princessminnie3.jpg

http://i133.photobucket.com/albums/q59/sl_underwood/eeyore1.jpg

Thanks again!
Lora

[lucigo]

Thank you all for sharing your wonderful photos and advice with me. We just got back yesterday and had a wonderful trip. I would love to share all the wonderful pictures of my son with you but as he is still not officially my son, his caseworker stated I cannot put his face on any website so here are a few I can share.

Thanks again!
Lora


Aww looks like he did great with the characters! Hope you stayed dry and had a great time! (We got back Sunday night!)

[1Prince3Princesses]

1 prince and 3 princesses, where did you get the prince charming costume? :cool1:

I'll PM you with the info.

[toodycat]

We've been going to WDW since DS was 6 and he will be 14 this year. Favorites were "The Seas with Nemo" and "Soaring" at Epcot which appeals to the vestibular issue ASD kids sometimes have. At MK, it was "Mickey's Philharmagic" "Pooh" "Peter Pan" and "Buzz Lightyear". He didn't care for "Pirates" ---the pirate's dirty feet freaked him out---and refused to go to the Haunted Mansion all together. Tiki Birds were too loud as was the Dinosaur attraction at AKL. DS also loved the lazy river at the water parks---found it very relaxing. Disneyquest had too much sensory input. We did the rafting attraction there and that was fun while it lasted, but it was the only one that interested him.He also loved meeting Stitch, Goofy and Hook. (He never liked characters whose real faces show.) At Hollywood Studios, he had a love/hate relationship with the movie set attraction. It was exciting, but loud and scary. We also always enjoy the Muppet 3D film. "Fantasmic" is too loud and we've tried a bunch of times, earplugs and all. We've also been on 4 Disney cruises. DS likes any cruise and I think this is a vestibular thing again. The ship's mild sway is very soothing.

[1stluvispooh]

We've been going to WDW since DS was 6 and he will be 14 this year. Favorites were "The Seas with Nemo" and "Soaring" at Epcot which appeals to the vestibular issue ASD kids sometimes have. At MK, it was "Mickey's Philharmagic" "Pooh" "Peter Pan" and "Buzz Lightyear". He didn't care for "Pirates" ---the pirate's dirty feet freaked him out---and refused to go to the Haunted Mansion all together. Tiki Birds were too loud as was the Dinosaur attraction at AKL. DS also loved the lazy river at the water parks---found it very relaxing. Disneyquest had too much sensory input. We did the rafting attraction there and that was fun while it lasted, but it was the only one that interested him.He also loved meeting Stitch, Goofy and Hook. (He never liked characters whose real faces show.) At Hollywood Studios, he had a love/hate relationship with the movie set attraction. It was exciting, but loud and scary. We also always enjoy the Muppet 3D film. "Fantasmic" is too loud and we've tried a bunch of times, earplugs and all. We've also been on 4 Disney cruises. DS likes any cruise and I think this is a vestibular thing again. The ship's mild sway is very soothing.

And I thought that DD was the only one who didn't like the faced characters.

[SueM in MN]

And I thought that DD was the only one who didn't like the faced characters.
You are not alone.
A lot of parents of children with ASD report the same thing.
I have read things about "eyes" that some people with ASD have written or communicated; that they have a hard time looking at people's faces because people's eyes distract them. They notice all the tiny eye movements that the rest of us can't see and that makes it very difficult to look at someone's face.
With the characters like Stitch, Mickey, etc, the eyes and the whole face don't move, so there are many less things to distract/disturb.

[toodycat]

Interesting information. Prior to that, I had just assumed he found the characters with the rubber heads more out of the ordinary.

[BethanyF]

some of my faves...

he had the boneyard almost entirely to himself...it was a great break for him to get some sensory input from the climbing and slides (2006)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a67/bfritz112/Disney/AKDinoland12.jpg

this is just one in a series of pics with Chip & Dale. Every one of his character greets starts with a HUGE hug. When they finally posed for the pic, they covered his face so it became a game of peek-a-boo. I think we had them to ourselves for a good 5 minutes before anyone else came up for pics. Sam had a ball (2006)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a67/bfritz112/Disney/AK64ChipandDale-1.jpg

playing with Pluto while waiting for breakfast at Ohana (2004)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a67/bfritz112/PolyOhanaPluto3.jpg

tasting Beverly (2006)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a67/bfritz112/Beverly.jpg

(2006)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a67/bfritz112/minniekiss.jpg

Jungle Boat Skipper (2006)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a67/bfritz112/SkipperSam.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a67/bfritz112/SamSkipper.jpg

(2004)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a67/bfritz112/6a3d6fc5.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a67/bfritz112/9b93b7ba.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a67/bfritz112/023581aa.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a67/bfritz112/AK71Kenai.jpg

[lucigo]

some of my faves...



Great pictures, he is adorable!! Thanks for sharing them pirate: I especially love the one with Pluto!

[BethanyF]

Great pictures, he is adorable!! Thanks for sharing them pirate: I especially love the one with Pluto!

it's one of my all time faves, thanks

on another note....looks like we will be at the World together. We'll be at SSR (first trip home as DVC members) followed by a 3 night cruise

[Andyjo0930]

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff183/alovenguth/KidswithMickey.jpg


This was the only picture all week that my son actually smiled. It was when he saw Mickey for the first time.

http://i241.photobucket.com/albums/ff183/alovenguth/ourpiratesandprincesses.jpg

This is him with his sister and cousins at the pirate and princess party, he's the second one on the left next to his sister who is cinderella.

[rachel3]

i just love all of your pictures. i have 3 kids, 2 of them are autistic, dd (7) and ds (2). here are a couple of my pics.

my son was just awed at iasw, can you tell?!
http://s303.photobucket.com/albums/nn141/rclem3/th_027.jpg
http://s303.photobucket.com/albums/nn141/rclem3/th_028.jpg
this is my daughter's happy face, most of the time at disney (except for the few overstimulation meltdowns) can't be happy 100% of the time :laughing:
http://s303.photobucket.com/albums/nn141/rclem3/th_161.jpg
http://s303.photobucket.com/albums/nn141/rclem3/th_160.jpg

[talfonso]

Am autistic, but can muddle through WDW well, despite the unruly kids, overweight people in scooters, and Brazilian tour groups. (I really don't mind the latter, however - they are the least annoying at WDW overall!) I enjoy the place and can go half days! I'll be posting up pics soon of today's day-trip to DAK! :)

[Brightsy]

I have waayyyy too many WDW pics to post of my son. But here's a couple cute ones from our last visit...and hopefully come Aug. I'll have some new ones to share!

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x123/Brightsy/IMG_3176.jpg

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x123/Brightsy/IMG_3190.jpg

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x123/Brightsy/IMG_3193.jpg

http://i185.photobucket.com/albums/x123/Brightsy/IMG_3212.jpg

There's a Magic Moment attached to that last picture. We'd gone to a T-Day buffet at the Swalphin for dinner. I thought they had mac-n-cheese but they didn't!!! They had a special T-day menu...and I was so worried that my lad would flip out. I mentioned that to the Hostess and by the time we finally got all settled a waitress arrived with the ginormous bowl you saw pictured. She out it in front of my son and said "With compliments from the Chef." He ate nearly the whole thing!

[pilgrimr]

I have loved the previous photos and it goes to show what a magical place Disney is. I am glad I saw this post today.

Brightsy, I love the picture of your son w/ mac & cheese. My son would have been in heaven.

Here are a couple of my son from over the years. He is now 6 and has autism. He is limited in his communication. He loves Disney along with the rest of his family.

He loved meeting witch from Snow White
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9dd31b3127ccec6c0dfc5263000000040O01KZNXDdmyB7e fDQ/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

This is him and sister at EPCOT a couple of years ago having a blast.
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b8d702b3127ccec57aa67b5b5600000050O01KZNXDdmyB7e fDQ/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

He loves Snow White (it was one of the first words he said unprompted, and has the action figure set). This picture was classic.
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b8cc02b3127ccec5bac390298800000040O01KZNXDdmyB7e fDQ/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

This is a couple of years old too, but I will have to say the Character Connection in EPCOT is the best.
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b8ce23b3127ccec51107ec594e00000050O01KZNXDdmyB7e fDQ/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

[Brightsy]

pilgrimr,
I adore that last photo of your son with Chip and Dale! It's so warm and cute!

I love the Epcot Character connection.
Last time we were there we went in to see the characters. The line was really long. I was about to try and find a way to scooch me and my son out of there. I knew he couldn't handle the length of the line and yet, I knew he'd not want to leave. A CM saw me dithering and asked what was wrong. I told him about my situation. He asked if I knew about the GAC, I told him yes, that I had used them before and had one with me. He said, bet you didn't know you could use it here. He then ushered my son and I to the front area and told us to wait a moment. He spoke to the CM at the front of the line and to the family waiting. Then he came back and took us to meet the characters! My son was so happy and the next family seemed ok with everything. Nowadays my sons ability to wait for something he wants is much better so next time we may actually be able to wait in line just like everyone else. I never guessed that I'd actually be happy about being able to wait in line! My friends think I'm nuts about that.

[lucigo]

I love all of the new pictures, and am so glad to see this thread active! It warms my heart to see how well our kiddos do at Disney and how awesome the CMs are! I especially love the Mac-N-Cheese pic and the Chip-n-Dale one!!!

[pilgrimr]

pilgrimr,
I adore that last photo of your son with Chip and Dale! It's so warm and cute!

I love the Epcot Character connection.
Last time we were there we went in to see the characters. The line was really long. I was about to try and find a way to scooch me and my son out of there. I knew he couldn't handle the length of the line and yet, I knew he'd not want to leave. A CM saw me dithering and asked what was wrong. I told him about my situation. He asked if I knew about the GAC, I told him yes, that I had used them before and had one with me. He said, bet you didn't know you could use it here. He then ushered my son and I to the front area and told us to wait a moment. He spoke to the CM at the front of the line and to the family waiting. Then he came back and took us to meet the characters! My son was so happy and the next family seemed ok with everything. Nowadays my sons ability to wait for something he wants is much better so next time we may actually be able to wait in line just like everyone else. I never guessed that I'd actually be happy about being able to wait in line! My friends think I'm nuts about that.

Character Connection is the best. We usually just go right at rope drope when the park opened. We also had a great experience with the cast member. When we were there a couple of years ago we explained that he needed just a little bit more time to take pictures. She was nice and stopped the line after us and gave them a short explaination and the cast members told the characters and we had a great session with them and we did not feel rushed. That is where we got the picture with Chip and Dale. That is also the point that we became life long Disney Fans.

[carrie6466]

my son and daughter:
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh270/carrie6466/IMG_0301-1.jpg

Just DD
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh270/carrie6466/IMG_0368.jpg

[MinnieVanMom]

This is our DS at MK taken with Stitch over by the carousel of progress. Stitch really took a lot of time and this was just too cute. I had made custom clothes for each day of our trip. He is always so happy when he is in Disney!
http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x86/aprilfregd/hunterandstitch.jpg

[mousescrapper]

My DS almost 10 is HFA and the things he really enjoyed on our last rip were:

pressed pennies:

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee134/Dizmama5/WDW%20SB09/100_2079-1.jpg

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee134/Dizmama5/WDW%20SB09/100_2080-1.jpg


pin trading:

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee134/Dizmama5/WDW%20SB09/100_2962.jpg

and he loves Toy Story Mania in the Studios and 2 of his new favorites are SSE in Epcot "History of Language Ball" he says and Walt's One Man Vision he enjoyed reading and looking at everything:

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee134/Dizmama5/WDW%20SB09/100_2321.jpg

http://i232.photobucket.com/albums/ee134/Dizmama5/WDW%20SB09/100_2327.jpg