GAC for hyperactivity

[CandleontheWater]

First off let me state that my son has not had a formal diagnosis, but that we are working with his pediatrician.

I was wondering if anyone had used a GAC to help deal with hyperactivity issues? My son is always in a state of perpetual motion, running, jumping, spinning, rolling, kicking the air, waving his arms around, its like his little body just can't help itself and he can't stop moving! (the upside to this is he really tires himself out and sleeps like a champ! )

The last time we visited Disney was in early Dec, and while we did have some trouble keeping him contained in line, the crowds were really low and we used a touring plan so we didn't run into any real issues.

Now we're traveling during Easter week, and I'm afraid that even with a good touring plan we are still going to run into long waits. I'm worried about DS disturbing people in line, bumping into them, spinning around, waving his arms . Its not that he is trying to hit or disturb people, he's not malicious, he just has a hard time controlling his body.

Has anyone run into issues like this, and how have you dealt with it? I want the vacation to run as smoothly as possible, but at the same time I don't want to inconvenience anyone, or take advantage of any system Disney has in place. Any help would be appreciated!

 

[clm10308]

When my son was little, we would just take a little extra space in line. One parent in the front of DS and one behind. We would leave him extra room to move around without running into other people.

 

[Apopper74]

Sounds like my son, you may want to look into Sensory Processing Disorder or Sensory Integration Disorder. Same thing one is just a newer term. Definitely try a GAC but your best bet is to get it properly diagnosed so he can begin OT so you can identify triggers and learn techniques to bring him down. PM me if you want some more information, I understand your pain.

 

[CandleontheWater]

When my son was little, we would just take a little extra space in line. One parent in the front of DS and one behind. We would leave him extra room to move around without running into other people.

This is a good idea! I can see this really working in queues like Pirates, where there are walls on two sides, and we can make a barrier around him. The lines where I am most concerned are those chain switchback nightmares in Fantasyland. I don't want him running into them and choking himself. If there was I way that I could just wait in the line, and have my DH and DS wait outside, and then they could join us towards the end that would be great. I'm thinking specifically about Its a Small World, Dumbo and Snow White. We'd obviously get a FP for Peter Pan.

Sounds like my son, you may want to look into Sensory Processing Disorder or Sensory Integration Disorder. Same thing one is just a newer term. Definitely try a GAC but your best bet is to get it properly diagnosed so he can begin OT so you can identify triggers and learn techniques to bring him down. PM me if you want some more information, I understand your pain.

I'm sending you a PM

 

[livndisney]

First off let me state that my son has not had a formal diagnosis, but that we are working with his pediatrician.

I was wondering if anyone had used a GAC to help deal with hyperactivity issues? My son is always in a state of perpetual motion, running, jumping, spinning, rolling, kicking the air, waving his arms around, its like his little body just can't help itself and he can't stop moving! (the upside to this is he really tires himself out and sleeps like a champ! )

The last time we visited Disney was in early Dec, and while we did have some trouble keeping him contained in line, the crowds were really low and we used a touring plan so we didn't run into any real issues.

Now we're traveling during Easter week, and I'm afraid that even with a good touring plan we are still going to run into long waits. I'm worried about DS disturbing people in line, bumping into them, spinning around, waving his arms . Its not that he is trying to hit or disturb people, he's not malicious, he just has a hard time controlling his body.

Has anyone run into issues like this, and how have you dealt with it? I want the vacation to run as smoothly as possible, but at the same time I don't want to inconvenience anyone, or take advantage of any system Disney has in place. Any help would be appreciated!

It looks like your son is under three? Have you considered getting a tag from GS to use his stroller as a wheelchair. That may help keep him in is own space.

 

[Earstou]

My ds is hyper and I couldn't keep him in a stroller after he learned to walk (at least not without a lot of screaming and hollering -on his part...not mine!). The best thing for us was to use a good touring plan, hitting the rides when the lines would be the shortest and using fastpass.

We also learned little tricks to keep him occupied. It turns out he loved to play I Spy and this would help keep him busy. Also hand-held games and maybe an mp3 player with his favorite music. He also loved cars, so we always had at least one hot wheels along, preferrably a new one to surprise him with! We even used sidewalk chalk one time.

The items used to distract him stayed in the backpack until we needed them and as soon as the ride was reached, they went back into the bag, He wasn't allowed to play with them in the room, so that they kept their novelty and kept him entertained when we needed them. It took a little effort on our part, and there were times it didn't work, but when it did, it sure made things better for us!!

 

[Mama Who]

Yes, actually I think the same GAC accommodation that I was given for anxiety would solve your problem. Waiting isn't the problem, it's the line environment, and it isn't even *all* lines, so you wouldn't have to use it everywhere. I'd go to GS and explain his need and the impact his condition has on him and those in a confined space with him. I think they can help you with this.

You'll still have waits but they can be made less stressful for everyone.

 

[cm8]

Yes, actually I think the same GAC accommodation that I was given for anxiety would solve your problem. Waiting isn't the problem, it's the line environment, and it isn't even *all* lines, so you wouldn't have to use it everywhere. I'd go to GS and explain his need and the impact his condition has on him and those in a confined space with him. I think they can help you with this.

You'll still have waits but they can be made less stressful for everyone.

I didn't know you could obtain a GAC for anxiety Thanks for that info,I'll be sure to pass it along to some people I know who suffer from anxiety

 

[CandleontheWater]

It looks like your son is under three? Have you considered getting a tag from GS to use his stroller as a wheelchair. That may help keep him in is own space.

I didn't realize that that was an option for ambulatory children. That is a great idea, thank you!

My ds is hyper and I couldn't keep him in a stroller after he learned to walk (at least not without a lot of screaming and hollering -on his part...not mine!). The best thing for us was to use a good touring plan, hitting the rides when the lines would be the shortest and using fastpass.

We also learned little tricks to keep him occupied. It turns out he loved to play I Spy and this would help keep him busy. Also hand-held games and maybe an mp3 player with his favorite music. He also loved cars, so we always had at least one hot wheels along, preferrably a new one to surprise him with! We even used sidewalk chalk one time.

The items used to distract him stayed in the backpack until we needed them and as soon as the ride was reached, they went back into the bag, He wasn't allowed to play with them in the room, so that they kept their novelty and kept him entertained when we needed them. It took a little effort on our part, and there were times it didn't work, but when it did, it sure made things better for us!!

Thank you for your advice, we always do try to have distractors on hand, but they aren't met with success. We do plan to bring some new toys along this trip, and fingers crosses that they will do the trick.

Also my DS actually is really good about the stroller. We live in an urban area, so it is our main means of travel. He's in his stroller way more than a car, so he's really used to it.

Yes, actually I think the same GAC accommodation that I was given for anxiety would solve your problem. Waiting isn't the problem, it's the line environment, and it isn't even *all* lines, so you wouldn't have to use it everywhere. I'd go to GS and explain his need and the impact his condition has on him and those in a confined space with him. I think they can help you with this.

You'll still have waits but they can be made less stressful for everyone.

Thank you, you're exactly right, its not the waiting that's the problem, its the space. This is why I am so excited for the new queue at Dumbo. If DS can wait in an area where he can move around freely (by which I mean, under strict supervision and wearing his backpack leash ), that would be ideal. I hope this idea is successful and that it is used in other rides as well.

 

[livndisney]

I didn't know you could obtain a GAC for anxiety Thanks for that info,I'll be sure to pass it along to some people I know who suffer from anxiety

GAC's are not given based on diagnois, but on need. One person with xx may need one type of assistance, another person with the same xx may not need any assistance(or something different). So you can't get a GAC for "anxiety" you need to be able to explain your needs.

 

[ccgirl]

GAC's are not given based on diagnois, but on need. One person with xx may need one type of assistance, another person with the same xx may not need any assistance(or something different). So you can't get a GAC for "anxiety" you need to be able to explain your needs.

This is exactly what I was going to say. You don't go up to Guest Services and say, "I have anxiety can I please have the card." You go up to Guest Services and explain your needs and they will let you know if you qualify for the GAC and give you the "type" of GAC you need. For example, I cannot be in the sun for a long period of time, I cannot wait in crowded areas etc.

As far as hyperactivity, I really think this would apply to most small children that go to WDW. I know my son was that way. We made sure he had his personal space. If people were crowding, which they would often do, I would nicely explain that my son has personal space issues that if they could please give him room that would be great. I have never had a problem. Most people have been extremely appreciative. THe logistics of trying to catch up to your family are a nightmare in some lines. With the advent of cell phones it's a little easier to find them but, saying excuse me to all those people in line is just not something I am, personally, fond of.

As a PP mentioned, if you feel it is necessary for his own safety then you could request the stroller as wheelchair tag.

 

[Mama Who]

I didn't know you could obtain a GAC for anxiety Thanks for that info,I'll be sure to pass it along to some people I know who suffer from anxiety

Others have already given you the "it's for a need, not a diagnosis" information but yes, there are anxiety related issues that are manageable with a GAC. I got one partway through our last DL trip at the recommendation of the folks in first aid (after a massive panic attack) and it was the difference between being able to go back to the park the next day and staying in the hotel room curled up in a ball. Even when I didn't use it, knowing it was there was soothing.

If you have a friend with a severe anxiety issue I strongly recommend they talk to GS about whether their issues can be solved with a GAC.

 

[dclfun]

Others have already given you the "it's for a need, not a diagnosis" information but yes, there are anxiety related issues that are manageable with a GAC. I got one partway through our last DL trip at the recommendation of the folks in first aid (after a massive panic attack) and it was the difference between being able to go back to the park the next day and staying in the hotel room curled up in a ball. Even when I didn't use it, knowing it was there was soothing.

If you have a friend with a severe anxiety issue I strongly recommend they talk to GS about whether their issues can be solved with a GAC.

Your level of anxiety which went into a panic attack might be very different than someone who just has anxiety in general. I know lots of people who would consider themselves anxious and who don't need any accommodation at Disney. As you mentioned, it will be helpful for some, but just to state that you can get assistance for anxiety really doesn't paint the whole picture. I know this was not your intention and you are thinking of how badly you felt and the need you had to enjoy your vacation.

As to the OP, if your little guy would stay in a stroller then lots of kids with your son's issues or autism have used this accommodation to give them a personal space and to make sure others don't intrude on their space either. You could bring a blanket to place across the shade top to give him even more personal space and things to play with that he can concentrate on as he's not needing to worry about where to walk next. If this doesn't work, you can always go back to GS and let them know you need something else.

 

[SueM in MN]

I only have time for a quick post -
If you have not already looked at the disABILITIES FAQs thread, you will find it useful. That thread is near the top of this board or you can follow the link in my signature.
Post 6 Is all about GACs and does explain how using a stroller as a wheelchair works.

 

[jen-y]

First off let me state that my son has not had a formal diagnosis, but that we are working with his pediatrician.

I was wondering if anyone had used a GAC to help deal with hyperactivity issues? My son is always in a state of perpetual motion, running, jumping, spinning, rolling, kicking the air, waving his arms around, its like his little body just can't help itself and he can't stop moving! (the upside to this is he really tires himself out and sleeps like a champ! )

The last time we visited Disney was in early Dec, and while we did have some trouble keeping him contained in line, the crowds were really low and we used a touring plan so we didn't run into any real issues.

Now we're traveling during Easter week, and I'm afraid that even with a good touring plan we are still going to run into long waits. I'm worried about DS disturbing people in line, bumping into them, spinning around, waving his arms . Its not that he is trying to hit or disturb people, he's not malicious, he just has a hard time controlling his body.

Has anyone run into issues like this, and how have you dealt with it? I want the vacation to run as smoothly as possible, but at the same time I don't want to inconvenience anyone, or take advantage of any system Disney has in place. Any help would be appreciated!

My sister's son has a "autism spectrum" disorder. He has sensory issues and has a hard time keeping still. They went to Disney a few years ago and she was able to get a GAC that allowed them to wait in line in a special room off to the side on some of the rides. They still waitied their fair share of time, but seperate from the line. I believe she said that did not need any special documentation for that. You may just want to call guest services directly and ask them.

 

[livndisney]

My sister's son has a "autism spectrum" disorder. He has sensory issues and has a hard time keeping still. They went to Disney a few years ago and she was able to get a GAC that allowed them to wait in line in a special room off to the side on some of the rides. They still waitied their fair share of time, but seperate from the line. I believe she said that did not need any special documentation for that. You may just want to call guest services directly and ask them.

You may be thinking of Universal-WDW does not offer "special" rooms for waiting. Calling GS is also not necessary-and really won't help.

As others have explained-you need to be able to explain your needs in person at GS.

 

[SueM in MN]

You may be thinking of Universal-WDW does not offer "special" rooms for waiting. Calling GS is also not necessary-and really won't help.

As others have explained-you need to be able to explain your needs in person at GS.

There are a couple of attractions at WDW that have a separate room - there is one for Turtle Talk at Epcot and one for Toy Story Mania at the Studio - but there are very few with accommodations like that. Universal does have more attractions with those rooms, from what I know.

And, as livndisney mentioned, calling Guest Services won't help - you are actually reaching a call center.
The information in post 6 of the disABILITIES FAQs thread about Guest Assistance Cards is accurate. The threadis net the top of this board or follow my signature li k.

 

[livndisney]

There are a couple of attractions at WDW that have a separate room - there is one for Turtle Talk at Epcot and one for Toy Story Mania at the Studio - but there are very few with accommodations like that. Universal does have more attractions with those rooms, from what I know.

And, as livndisney mentioned, calling Guest Services won't help - you are actually reaching a call center.
The information in post 6 of the disABILITIES FAQs thread about Guest Assistance Cards is accurate. The threadis net the top of this board or follow my signature li k.

The room at Turtle talk is not always in use, we have been asked to just wait off to the side due the room being closed. I have not seen a room at TSM.

 

[kuhltiffany]

Your DS sounds exactly like my 6 year old (newly diagnosed with ADHD: Combined type)! We give him things to do in line, consulting the maps, eating snacks, playing his DS or on my iPhone etc. He's quite social so will often strike up conversations with other people in line, which helps to keep him occupied.

I've never considered getting him an GAC, so far we've felt it to be manageable. He'll be on meds for the first time this visit (still working on dosages), so we'll see how that goes...