Advice for WDW with DD4 - Anxiety and Sensory Issues?

[A MK Family]

Hello,
This is our first trip in a few years. Our DD4 has Sensory Issues and Anxiety Disorder. Last trip didn't seem to be an issue as she was 2 and could be held or put in the stroller. However now she is too long and heavy to carry and I also have my DS(15 months) and DD7.

I know that there are certain rides to avoid like HM and MP because of the preloading areas (unwanted touching). So I am okay with what to avoid, but I am looking for advice how to best approaches other things. We are doing both MNSSHP and MVMCP. I really want her to see the parades and shows but am worried about crowds - where to view? As we used to stand mid crowd in front of castle, but this isn't going to work this time.

We need a stroller for DS and think DD4 would also benefit from one too. Any advice on whether we should to two singles or a double?

I am concerned because just recently she has started running away when she gets anxious in public, so any advice on how to calm her would be greatly appreciated from others who have 'been there, done that'!

THanks!!

 

[Kellykins1218]

I think you absolutely should get your daughter a stroller and also go to guest services for a guest assistance card and "stroller as a wheelchair" sticker. This will allow you to keep your daughter in her stroller while you wait in line for attractions. We have used individual strollers or our front/back double. I'm not sure if the lines are wide enough for one of Disney's doubles. I'm not sure where the best viewing would be but being able to stay in their strollers during shows and parades was really helpful for my sons. They get to feel more secure in their own space & not have people crowding in on them.

 

[A MK Family]

I think you absolutely should get your daughter a stroller and also go to guest services for a guest assistance card and "stroller as a wheelchair" sticker. This will allow you to keep your daughter in her stroller while you wait in line for attractions. We have used individual strollers or our front/back double. I'm not sure if the lines are wide enough for one of Disney's doubles. I'm not sure where the best viewing would be but being able to stay in their strollers during shows and parades was really helpful for my sons. They get to feel more secure in their own space & not have people crowding in on them.

Thanks so much! I was thinking of doing two strollers but was unsure how challenging it would be on the buses, boats etc... But I guess it will be worth her feeling secure. I heard about the cards and thinking of it! I think FPs will be our key to success this trip. Could your sons see the fireworks okay from the stroller?

 

[SueM in MN]

I don't have much time right now for a reply, but wanted to point you toward the disABILITIES FAQs thread. Post 6 is about Guest Assistance Cards and includes information about about using a stroller as a wheelchair.

A double stroller will fit through most lines because most are Mainstream lines, which means they are at least 32 inches wide for wheelchair accessibility.

There are advantages and disadvantages to having a double or single.
2 strollers mean 2 people pushing, but also means your 2 children will not have to sit next to eat other, which could be annoying for both of them.

If you have 2 strollers and need to separate for some reason (15 month needs a diaper change or is napping) , you would still have a stroller for your 4 yr old to use.

 

[Kellykins1218]

Thanks so much! I was thinking of doing two strollers but was unsure how challenging it would be on the buses, boats etc... But I guess it will be worth her feeling secure. I heard about the cards and thinking of it! I think FPs will be our key to success this trip. Could your sons see the fireworks okay from the stroller?

Fireworks were not a problem except at Epcot because they have stuff right on the water. If you aren't right in the front, you just need to move back several feet and you can see over the people sitting by the fence.

 

[A MK Family]

THANK YOU LADIES!!!

I think we will bring two separate strollers! I am just trying to think of ways to make her as relaxed as possible

 

[lanejudy]

FastPasses and a good touring plan will be your best bets to minimize waiting. I second the suggestion of using the stroller in lines. It will provide her with a "safe haven" from the crowds while waiting, and particularly since she has developed the habit of bolting. While you may be allowed to use the "handicapped" viewing areas, frequently that only allows 1 person plus the stroller so it probably would not work well for your family. I recommend grabbing a viewing spot curbside early - use this as downtime to have a snack/meal and people-watch or just rest a bit.

Double stroller or 2 singles will likely be a personal preference. Some prefer the double so only 1 pusher, but this can trap the 2 kids in close quarters and if 1 is having a meltdown that may not be preferable. It also doesn't allow you to split up, if DD4 really needs a break from it all, one of you could continue with the others. I'm not sure which might be preferrable on the buses - 2 singles or a big double. Many people think the double on the bus is a major inconvenience, but if one of you needs to hold the baby and 4 yr old, a double may be better.

Enjoy your vacation!