Disney cruise

[MelMtlk]

Any info for parents of kids on Autism sectrum for disney cruise line? How were the counselors and staff? Do I call before hand or tell them when I get there.

 

[lanejudy]

My DD is not ASD but she does have developmental delays. She is mainstreamed with minimal support at school and had no problem at the Club/Lab on the Dream last winter. It may somewhat depend on your child's ability to participate in group activities. The youth CMs onboard will not provide a direct 1:1 for a child with special needs, but they will encourage the child to participate in various activities or assist in finding an activity (drawing, computers, etc.) that interest the child. You may want to let DCL know ahead of your child's needs, but be prepared to discuss specifics with the CMs during the initial Open House once onboard. They are well-trained and very good with the children.

Enjoy your cruise!

 

[Princess Bette]

My son has Aspergers (high functioning) and last cruised when he was 7 and the counselors were awesome! I did notate it when we did online registration (I think), but also discussed one on one with them in person. Discussed his particular issues and how to handle them. They were fabulous - he did great and never had a problem at all - and he spent quite a lot of time in the kids club (at his request). My son had rather play independently than in groups, so I was worried, but he did great. His favorite thing was learning origami - he even earned a magical moment certificate from one of the counselors! Hope you have a magical cruise!

 

[MelMtlk]

Thanks for the great information! We will def have conversations with the counselors. I'm sure he will love it! I am in the process of making flash cards with various pictures. Hopefully, they will help with the transitions.

 

[LisaBi]

On the Magic several years ago they were great with my son who has Down Syndrome. He was at an age where there overlap between the club that they had to sign out of and that space on deck 3 (I can't remember the name) where they could come and go on their own. They worked with me that they would not let him leave on his own, but would instead page us with the other club's pager. Overall they were very willing to work with him and make some accommodations. But definitely no one on one supervision.