Behavior problems and transportation questions

[Betty Rohrer]

I'm full of questions today!

My ODD will be turning 10 the day before our trip (12/1-12/6). She doesn't have autism, per se, but presents somewhat similarly. SO...I'm using autism just so you can imagine what she is like. She has issues with impulse control and can become aggressive when stressed or upset. Mostly against Dad and I, but I feel quite embarrassed when it happens. We will be staying at BC. DH wants to rent a van and drive to all the parks because he is afraid she will have a meltdown on the bus. We are already planning to get there early (she's a pretty early riser) and leave by 2pm at the latest every day (no fireworks for us) so that she can have some down time in the hotel before dinner. I want to do 3 mornings at MK, 1 longer day at AK, and evenings at Epcot with a very relaxed pace there (maybe no rides, maybe just food and people watching). We'd love to try to eat at Saana once, though. I really want to go to the other resorts and see the Christmas decorations.

How much trouble is it to drive around between resorts?

How long are bus rides and bus waits? Would you recommend driving to avoid that if you have a child with a similarly severe presentation of autism or other behavioral condition?

And I'm going to get these wild girls ready for bed, so I may not respond until the morning, but thanks for ALL your help.

one thing to remember at MK there is no parking lot that you can walk or ride a tram to the front gate. you will have to take either the monorail or the ferry to and from the parking lot. both can be crowded in the early mornings with people wanting to get to the park plus bag check is as you are getting on the transportation not at the gate.

 

[ladyjubilee]

My son has autism and is aggresive. We always drive to WDW, and never do buses.

Our strategy for the ferry and monorail is block off room for him and ride at less crowded times, even if that means we wait for the last boat. We also use the "to hotel" options that aren't direct but have less people. Finally, if he is really in a mood and we can't escape to a quiet place, we have let CM know. They've been very helpful "making a way" for us.

 

[Ecomommy09]

My son has autism and is aggresive. We always drive to WDW, and never do buses.

Our strategy for the ferry and monorail is block off room for him and ride at less crowded times, even if that means we wait for the last boat. We also use the "to hotel" options that aren't direct but have less people. Finally, if he is really in a mood and we can't escape to a quiet place, we have let CM know. They've been very helpful "making a way" for us.

Thanks for your personal (Been there, done that) experience. I'm pretty convinced DH is right and we just need to get a car. Thanks!