More GAC ?

[andee515]

We have never used the GAC before, and I've been reading through the threads, but still was hoping for some information about what to ask for, maybe from your own personal experiences.

Background. I have a 3 yo son with moderate autism who is non verbal. We took him to disney at 23 months and he really enjoyed it, but had serious issues with waiting and frequent meltdowns( what 2 yr old doesn't) But much of the time we would keep him in the stroller or carry him, where generally he did well, he enjoyed almost all the rides.

This time, however, he is alot bigger and it is difficult for us to carry him for very long, he hates to have his hands held, be leashed or pretty much any type of restraining ( besides holding him, he usually allows that). He has not been in a stroller for almost a year, we will take one, but not sure how he will react. I just can not imagine getting him thru any serious wait in one spot; ie line or holding area.

I'm not sure what my alternatives are. I don't mind waiting in a regular line for our spot, but he will not do it. Has anyone been issued a GAC like that, where one parent stands in line and the other parent can walk around outside until it is our turn? That would work well because when he is in motion, things generally are smooth.

The other question I had was that being 3 we really do not have established patterns of behavior. So I would like the ability to adapt and chage as we find different things work. Can we get a GAC for multiple adaptations or will we have to go back each time for a different one as we figure out what works best. For example, he might go thru lines ok in a stroller, he would have last year, but I'm not sure this year. When he is tired he definately would not do well in a holdong area with a crush of other people, so I would like that option. can we ask for both?

Any opinions or thoughts would be appreciated

 

[KateMW]

I don't have answers for most of your questions, but as far as the stroller thing goes, I would start getting him used to it now. Stroll him around at home and make it a fun thing! A special Disney only thing? Maybe that would help?

 

[SueM in MN]

I don't know if you found the information about Guest Assistance Cards in post #6 of the disABILITIES FAQs thread, but if you didn't, it would probably be helpful (if you did and are still confused, let me know, I have edited it multiple times to make it clearer, based on people's feedback).

To answer your specific question, you tell the CM in Guest Relations what your child's issues or need are. Based on those, they will come uowith a stamp for the GAC that would seem to meet your needs. We usually mention using a stroller in line in the boards for situations like yours because in the past, when CMs mentioned it to guests, they often didn't realize how that would help them. With a stroller as a wheelchair, many kids do much better in line than their parents thought they would because yhe stroller acts as a portable 'safe place'. Usually, the accommodations that are stamped on thecard are enough, but if you are still having dome issues, you can go back to Guest Relations and explain what doesn't seem to be working. With a stroller as a wheelchair, you will be able to use the less congested wheelchair waiting area. Most shows have these and the function of them is to separate out the guests with wheelchairs and special needs so they can enter the theater safely and alsoake sire not to admit more guests with wheelchairs than there is room for.
Another thing you may want to look at is touring plans. Many people find a good touring plan is more useful than a GAC. The GAC is only used for attractions, but the touring plan can help you know where to go that is least crowded, helping with attractions and just getting around.

 

[PrincessSarah314]

I've used the GAC for the last 2 trips to WDW and DLR...I've been provided with stamps that allowed Shaded Waiting Area if available for my mother (sun sensitive due to medications) and one that allowed me to avoid turnstiles and other small areas for myself (I have trouble maneuvering certain turnstiles due to obesity) and am familiar with the "Stoller As Wheelchair' stamp.

The shaded waiting area, which is generally inside the "preshow' area to avoid the crowded lines in the heat, which may irritate your child more.
I would use whatever access we need for the conditions. Also, I generally let the rest of my party wait in the regular line and then I would go thru the handicap entrance to meet them, avoiding turnstiles but allowing us to ride together. So you or your spouse could wait in line while the other adult walked around with your child. I believe you mentioned that he is fine while moving around.

Stroller as wheelchair would be helpful if your kid is exhausted and you just can't possibly hold him through yet ANOTHER long line. K

Hope that helps! Good luck!