We are planning on going to Disney for Spring Break with my husbands family. My little boy will have just turned 4 when we leave for the trip. He has Autism and SPD. He hates crowds, loud noises, lots of movement, smells, and heat. Unfortunately I have no decision making over when we go since this is a gift to us so I'm trying to prepare myself as best as I can but honestly I don't have much hope for this being anything but a disaster. I've been to Disney many times but not since 2004 and never with my kids. If anyone can offer tips to make the trip as easy as possible for my little guy, I'd really appreciate it. I also have a daughter who will be 5 and she loves all things Disney so we want to make it as wonderful for her and not make her miss too many things because of her brother. It's hard to balance
I know how you feel about balancing it for your daughter. My son is 4 and I have a daughter who is 18 months older than him. The first trip to Disney we didn't take him (he was only 3 then) in part because I didn't think he could deal with the trip and in part so the visit could be about her. I honestly didn't think he would want to go, but he looked at the pictures and I could just tell he was jealous.
Well, he absolutely LOVED Disney World, and now asks all the time since we got home about 2 weeks ago to go see Mickey.
His stroller is his haven. We had the stroller as a wheelchair tag - get a stroller and the tag. We actually ended up renting a stroller from Orlando Stroller Rental because we didn't have a lot of room and thought it would be easier. It was - the stroller was great, he fit nicely, it was perfect. Let him stay in the stroller as much as he likes.
We also brought along his electronic "distract him" toys - you know, game boy or DSI or my iphone. Whenever he got uncomfortable, I handed him one and he was able to pretend that whatever was making him unhappy wasn't happening. We also had the stroller fans that I could clip onto the stroller. It was especially helpful when he napped.
So, get the GAC - it helps. Use the stroller. Have some toys or comfort items that can distract him. Be prepared to go into the stores often if he gets hot, or there are fireworks that scare him.
How does he do at restaurants? If he doesn't do well, you might want to avoid TS meals because they take a long time. We went in early September, so we were able to use his stroller when necessary at the restaurants but I really doubt they will let you during Spring Break. Also, make sure you have the wheelchair tag or they won't let you take the stroller too many places.
I showed my son youtube videos of rides, tours of our resort, and walkthroughs of the parks for about 8 monts before we went. I think it really helped because he seemed to know what everything was and was less nervous than usual. Sometimes it is hard to tell when they aren't very verbal.
Good luck and enjoy your trip!