DD Doesn't Want to go on Rides

[lindsey]

Our son and family just experienced similar situations in September - grandson just turned 5 and was apprehensive about going to Disney - while everyone else was excited - it was his first time and he did not know what to expect. He got scared first day in Little Mermaid and would not go back inside any other attraction. He would not even ride the monorail. Fortunately, it was a slow time and the family took turns with the older brother. He enjoyed all of the "outside"stuff.

 

[2BoysMom]

Have you tried youtube? They have a ton of ride videos, a lot of them aren't worth watching but if you can find some good ones for your daughter to watch between now and your vacation it may calm some of her fears and actually give her something to look forward to.

Falling Star gave some good advice. I, too, have a son who is mildly autistic, and when you first posted, that was the first thing I thought of, b/c it is such a common response with our kids.

DS, who is a twin and 4, has begun telling me what rides he does not want to do. I let him talk, but I do not indulge his fear. Showing videos is a great idea. Alot of our kids are visual learners and like to know what to expect, and are not good on spontaneity.

Last trip (May) I let him say No, to rides like Splash Mountain. However, in Oct, I will not. I will prepare him the best I can ahead of time, but I also know, if he tries the ride, he will LOVE the music, and love the animal scenes.

I am actively involved in autism groups in my community and know some parents who "protect" their children from every possible fear. My opinion on that is that I am trying to encourage bravery, self-esteem/self-efficacy and courage from him in life. There are no guarantees in life, and although I would like to always be there for him, I don't know for sure if God has that same plan. So, I try to prepare him to believe in himself and face his fears. He has always done well. I realize these are only my opinions, and I'm not trying to tell anyone what to do. But with "our" kids, I am finding that my approach works very consistently.

 

[2BoysMom]

Thanks for all the great suggestions. Just wondering if anyone can share experiences with children "freaking out" on the rides. My DD5 isn't always the calmest kid if she's feeling scared. I think she would get on Soarin', just not sure what the reaction will be once it starts.

Also, wondering if the CM's mind if she's wearing headphones (for noise) and has a small (really small) flashlight, just to feel safe.

OK, I just read this, after making my last post. My suggestion to you is to get a Guest Assistance Card for your daughter. This is a perfect example of how this card can be used appropriately (and not to get in the front of the line as some folks think). By having a GAC, you would show this to the CM of whatever ride or show you think might be an "issue." They are all trained on autism issues, and if there is a quieter area, or less stimulating area, or better seat, or a seat by an exit door, this is when they can let you know. Especially if you have the GAC, they will totally allow the ipod, b/c they will know it is a calming mechanism for your child.

 

[lunapnp]

Falling Star gave some good advice. I, too, have a son who is mildly autistic, and when you first posted, that was the first thing I thought of, b/c it is such a common response with our kids.

DS, who is a twin and 4, has begun telling me what rides he does not want to do. I let him talk, but I do not indulge his fear. Showing videos is a great idea. Alot of our kids are visual learners and like to know what to expect, and are not good on spontaneity.

Last trip (May) I let him say No, to rides like Splash Mountain. However, in Oct, I will not. I will prepare him the best I can ahead of time, but I also know, if he tries the ride, he will LOVE the music, and love the animal scenes.

I am actively involved in autism groups in my community and know some parents who "protect" their children from every possible fear. My opinion on that is that I am trying to encourage bravery, self-esteem/self-efficacy and courage from him in life. There are no guarantees in life, and although I would like to always be there for him, I don't know for sure if God has that same plan. So, I try to prepare him to believe in himself and face his fears. He has always done well. I realize these are only my opinions, and I'm not trying to tell anyone what to do. But with "our" kids, I am finding that my approach works very consistently.

Well said! I think we should ALL remember that each parent knows what is best for his/her child. What technique works for one child may not work for another. Only a parent/caregiver can know what will work best for that child. I just hate to see other well-meaning parents pass judgement on other people's parenting skills. Although my child is not autistic, she does have physical disabilities and emotional "issues"...so I fully understand your perspective! We will be there in Oct, too, and although DDs do not know we are going...I can promise you my oldest DD will be going on some *new* (to her) rides this year!