Just got back - the guest assistance card was a lifesaver

[NeverbeenB4]

I didn't know that the GAC also acts as a fastpass! We were able to go on fastpass rides anytime we wanted to with it in hand. One CM gave us a hard time, but everyone else was wonderful. The parks were empty anyway. My DS (5) is mildly autistic, and he handled the crowds, noise, chaos very well. His favorite rides were Space Mountain, Test Track, anything fast, dark, scary. Go figure! He was even great on the plane. A splendid first trip with him! Anyone want to come over to my house and do some laundry????????

 

[Safari Steve]

I'm glad you had fun. Because of your son's condition and needs with regards to crowds, your GAC was written to allow unlimited use of FP queues. Not all GACs include this, and in fact most require you to get a FP if at all possible. Did you post a trip report? I love reading those!
Kungaloosh!

 

[SueM in MN]

I'm glad you had a good time. There are several different messages on GACs. Basically, you are given the card that gives the level of assistance your family needs to experience the parks without too much stress. Sometimes, it's a place to wait out of the sun. Sometimes it's a place to sit while you wait, the ability to bring a stroller into lines like a wheelchair would be used or sitting in the front row of shows for someone with viual problems.
Whatever the message on the GAC, people have reported being asked to use it sparingly, saving it for when it is really necessary. The CM giving the GAC out also usually ask that you use the fastpass machine as much as possible to avoid waiting in line.

 

[teri]

We had our GAC as usual, but the lines were so short we never used it except to get the close parking spaces. The waits were never more than 15 minutes for any ride, except in Fantasyland and we always just skip that. (Spoiled by the REAL Fantasyland at Disneyland.) We have managed to train our son to tolerate lines that aren't too long or too 'touchy' and last week things were perfect.

Usually they ask you to use the FP (with tickets) with the GAC, even if you have the 'alternate entrance' stamp. But the crowds were so low, I can understand why they wouldn't even bother with that now.