Child with vision problems at Disney

[PrincessSophiasMom]

We are planning a trip to the World for December 2014. My DD (3) will be 4 then, has Cataracts in both eyes and she does pretty well getting around, however she has a hard time seeing things like TV and if we go to the theater we try to get the closest seats so she does not have to strain to see or so she does not just flat out miss it because she cant see. On our Disney cruise last year she had a hard time in the theaters because we never really got good seats due to our dining time and I never thought to ask to be accomidated (maybe because by the time we went to the shows in the theater it was almost her bedtime anyways and she just fell asleep lol) I know Disney does a good job helping those with special request but I did not know how they stand on maybe us asking to be seated in the front during stage shows and such so DD can see it. She does wear glasses that help but I know she still has a difficult time. Any advice would be great, thanks!!

 

[cgncga]

My daughter also has low vision (in addition to several other issues) and we've found that we are able to get a stamp on her GAC that will give us access to seats in the front row of the shows--because of her vision. These seats aren't always the best seats for the rest of us to see the show from, but they're the best onese for her.

Also, we're a family of four and sometimes two of us do have to sit further back, and, because we also use a special needs stroller for her, sometimes we do have to ask to be seated in the front seats rather than the back wheelchair accessible seats, but most of the shows we've been to have been able to accomodate this for her.

Catherine

 

[ttintagel]

If she needs to sit in the front to see, they can absolutely accommodate that; they do for me. Just go to Guest Services at the front of the park and describe her needs.

The only time it's an issue is in places like the Hall of Presidents, where the wheelchair seating is on the back. Then, we have to decide whether I sit in the back and don't see everything, my sister gets out her crutches and hobbles to the front, or we don't sit together!

 

[KPeveler]

There is a GAC which alerts CMs to the person's need to sit up front in a theatre - just go to Guest Relations and ask (be sure to have your DD within sight when you do so).

When there are two needs which cannot be accommodated at the same time, Disney will usually work with you on this: For example, I have often seen people wheeling to the front of the theatre and then transferring, and a CM or family member moves the wheelchair to the side until the show is over.

If a person is travelling solo, a CM generally will move a wheelchair for you if you must transfer to have your needs met (like being in the front row and using a wheelchair).

In newer theatres Disney is getting better about putting wheelchair spots up front, for folks with vision problems as well as those who are deaf/HoH, read lips, or need the ASL interpreters.

 

[PrincessSophiasMom]

Thanks everyone!!! DD only really has a problem with her vision and her dietary needs. We really know how to feed her so accomidating her dietary needs would not be as big of a deal as her being able to see. Glad to know we can also get a GAC to help us out!!! I am feeling more at ease already

 

[ttintagel]

When there are two needs which cannot be accommodated at the same time, Disney will usually work with you on this: For example, I have often seen people wheeling to the front of the theatre and then transferring, and a CM or family member moves the wheelchair to the side until the show is over.

Hmmm, that's food for thought! While we probably couldn't put my sister's ECV off to the side if she came down to join me where I could see, if she transferred into a manual wheelchair, I wonder if they'd let us fold that at the side. I guess that would depend on there being a wheelchair available - do all attractions keep one, or just the ones where ECV users have to transfer? I guess it's worth asking next time we go.

 

[lanejudy]

Thanks everyone!!! DD only really has a problem with her vision and her dietary needs. We really know how to feed her so accomidating her dietary needs would not be as big of a deal as her being able to see. Glad to know we can also get a GAC to help us out!!! I am feeling more at ease already

Just to clarify...the GAC will only be helpful for the vision issues and only as that relates to rides and attractions. If you think she might have any trouble moving around the park in the crowds, you'll want to use a stroller; and you can get a tag to bring it in lines if you feel it might be necessary to keep her safe (if she hasn't learned to maneuver well in crowds, not sure if she uses a white cane or any other device).

GAC does nothing for dietary needs - but you might want to have a notation made on your ADRs if you feel necessary. My DD has a special diet but we monitor it ourselves, no need for the chef; however many with allergies will have it noted and the chef will come speak with them about appropriate offerings.

Enjoy your vacation!