GAC for ASD behaviors?

[Ellajoan]

My DD (6) has a chromosomal disorder (ring chromosome13) that causes cognitive impairment. She does not have ASD, although she has many characteristics of it at times. She has a tough time understanding waiting and gets upset and perseverative at times if we are waiting. Like most of our kids she looks like a "normal" child until she tries to communicate or when a melt-down is triggered by "seemingly nothing." Could I get a GAC just for some insurance?

 

[SueM in MN]

If you haven't already, check out the information on GACs (Guest Assistance Cards) in the disABILITIES FAQs thread, near the top of the board.

What you need to be able to explain to the CMs is what sorts of problems you expect your child may have in the lines (sort of as you did in this question).

There are also quite a few posts on this board about bringing children with ASD to WDW. Search for "ASD", "autism" and "Aspergers". If you need help searching, let me know.

 

[ducklite]

You might do well getting a GAC to use a stroller as a wheelchair in order to give her some personal space and have things in the stroller to keep her occupied.

Keep in mind that the GAC isn't a "Fast Pass" or go to the head of the line pass, and you will be asked to use Fast Pass in place of the GAC where it is available. Even with the Fast Pass the wait can still be up to ten minutes.

Also if you use the GAC, there might be several mobility impaired guests in front of you who need accessible ride cars, so the wait can at times actually be longer using a handicapped entrance than the main entrance. The difference will be less people crowding around and generally a quieter atmosphere.

Anne

 

[Poohnatic]

I've been getting the GAC for my son with Asperger's. It sure does help to use an alternate entrance, even with the wait. He also perseverates, has no patience and tends to have an extremely short fuse when surrounded by people.

Yes, get the GAC. Best case scenario, you won't need it, but you've got it in your pocket.

Suzanne