Does Universal have similar offering to Guest Assistance Card?

[stitch63]

I just learned about the GAC from our OT and looked at the FAQ's for WDW. My son has sensory issues and he's never had to wait in theme park lines before so we don't know how he will respond. Does Universal offer anything that is similar? I think we might need the ability to keep him in his stroller/alternate wait areas due to the crowds and how he will react to the stimulation/closeness of the crowds which could be increased due to heat, etc. We're going to look into the GAC at Disney, but didn't know if Universal was as accommodating.

 

[phamton]

Universal has GAP (Guest Assistance Passes). You do not need a doctor's note just be able to tell them what assistance you need at Guest Services.

Both parks are ADA compliant and, as such, are wheelchair accessible. There are several types of GAP offered:
Stroller as a wheelchair (you an take your stroller right through the line without transferring to a wheelchair)
Show GAP (Special seating at shows--usually right up front)
Stairs GAP (for those rides that have stairs in the queue, you can use the elevator)
Familyroom GAP (where you wait in an airconditioned room with a few other family members while the rest of your family goes through the queue--then you join them at the front of the line)
Express GAP which is esentially like a fast pass at Disney all day (6 people maximum)
VIP Gap (back door access--mostly for Make a Wish Kids or Give Kids the World)

Your best bet might be a combination of a Family Room GAP and Stroller as a Wheelchair GAP. Even the express lines can be crowded at times for a child with sensory disorders. The family room will get him out of the crowds.

 

[stitch63]

Thank you so much for your quick response to my question We will be sure to check with Guest Services when we get to Universal. Are the passes good for your entire stay and for both parks? We are going to tell our OT and Speech Therapist about our experiences so they can pass on the information to other families with SID kiddos.

 

[phamton]

They have to be reisssued daily but are good for both parks.

 

[SueM in MN]

Universal has a nice ADA Guest Services Page. On that page, you can download a Rider's Guide for Safety and Guests with Disabilities (you can also get a copy at Guest Services in the parks). If you look in the information losting for Service Animals for each ride, that part lists things like loud noises, explosions, etc, that might occur on the attraction.