Autism Parents, Where Did You View the Parades

[Disneylvr]

We just know that DD would love Spectromagic but don't know if she can handle being crowded in the regular places along the parade route and wait for long periods of time. Where did you view Spectromagic and how did you help your child deal with the crowds and the waiting?

 

[JCTigger]

Theres a really great place to watch it in Frontierland. Theres a little brick wall in the patio area of Pecos Bill's you can sit there and watch the parade the only catch is you can only sit one person deep on the wall you cant stand up in front of each other or sit on the ground in front you cant have strollers or wheel chairs and it goes really quickly you have to get there early. Its a great spot that keeps you away from the huge crowds of people sitting on the side walk and such I hope that helps (It's my favorite spot to view the parade)

And one more thing you cannot sit there during hte day parade due to the size of the snow globe floats....

Jill

 

[SueM in MN]

Another good place, but you have to get there early, is the porch of the building where Tony's restaurant is on Main Street. There are some nice rockers and benches on the porch. We put those up to the railing and watch the parade from there. Luckily, my DH's mom and dad like to stake out a place early and will sit there.

Another place (but kind of far away from the parade) is a little alcove type area in front of Crystal Palace. We have also watched parades from an area close to the walkway to Adventureland that is close to Crystal Palace. They are far enough away from the parade route that people don't normally watch from those places.

 

[GretchGraham]

Sue, thank you for that suggestion. I have never tried that area near the CP, but we will certainly be trying that this year.

Michelle, we found that it was not the wait that was difficult for DD as you can generally have one person hold the space for the child, especially if you are willing to leave her stroller. Most families with small children are doing the same thing as none of the children seem to be able to wait in one place for that length of time.

The problem we have faced is the sound. Spectro is a very loud parade and DD does not typically have auditory sensory issues. The first time we watched Spectro, she got very excited as she could see it coming down the street, laughing and flapping her hands. However, as it got closer and louder, she covered her ears and began to scream. We saw three minutes that first year. The second year I went with ear muffs (she won't wear ear plugs) and placed my hands over her ears. She still did not stay for the entire parade.

I certainly don't want to discourage you from taking your DD to Spectro, it is truly wonderful. As a matter of fact, I keep trying each year to make it workable for my DD. I just wanted you to know.

 

[Disneylvr]

Sue, thank you for that suggestion. I have never tried that area near the CP, but we will certainly be trying that this year.

Michelle, we found that it was not the wait that was difficult for DD as you can generally have one person hold the space for the child, especially if you are willing to leave her stroller. Most families with small children are doing the same thing as none of the children seem to be able to wait in one place for that length of time.

The problem we have faced is the sound. Spectro is a very loud parade and DD does not typically have auditory sensory issues. The first time we watched Spectro, she got very excited as she could see it coming down the street, laughing and flapping her hands. However, as it got closer and louder, she covered her ears and began to scream. We saw three minutes that first year. The second year I went with ear muffs (she won't wear ear plugs) and placed my hands over her ears. She still did not stay for the entire parade.

I certainly don't want to discourage you from taking your DD to Spectro, it is truly wonderful. As a matter of fact, I keep trying each year to make it workable for my DD. I just wanted you to know.

Sounds like we need to watch it in a location where we can make a quick exit if necessary. Years ago DH and I watched it from the train station platform but I know you have to stake that spot out hours in advance. DD has never exhibited any auditory sensory issues but there is always a first time. Thanks for the advice everyone!

 

[SueM in MN]

Sounds like we need to watch it in a location where we can make a quick exit if necessary.

If you watch from the area near Crystal Palace, the sound is not quite so close to you. Plus, you can easily duck in to either the Baby Care Center or First Aid if you need a very quiet spot.
The area by Tonys is nice because you could duck into the shop right behind you if you need to.
I'd probably try that area for your first parade and then you can always come to another parade and move closer to the action if your child likes it.

 

[Disneylvr]

If you watch from the area near Crystal Palace, the sound is not quite so close to you. Plus, you can easily duck in to either the Baby Care Center or First Aid if you need a very quiet spot.
The area by Tonys is nice because you could duck into the shop right behind you if you need to.
I'd probably try that area for your first parade and then you can always come to another parade and move closer to the action if your child likes it.

Sue that is a great idea, thank you!