Need tips and guidance for Disney World with Autistic Children

[KyleRayner]

Hey everyone!

I go to WDW every year and I'm a DVC member. I'm interested in taking my 2 nieces to WDW next October for the first time. They are both autistic. One is 8 and the other is 3.

I would love any tips and guidance from which DVC resort might be the best to stay at, to using the GAC; from character greetings to what parks and/or attractions would be good or bad.

I'll take anything you guys have to give. Thanks in advance!

P.S. We will have a rental car and I was leaning towards The Treehouse Villas for the resort.

~Marc

 

[Cheshire Figment]

Hi and to disABILITIES!

We would like to help you, but "autism" itself is a diagnoses with multiple symptoms and is definitely not a "one size fits all" category. You might want to look through several of the threads in this forum and the disABILITIES Community Board subforum.

Another place is If you click on where it says "disABILTIES" at the top of this page it will take you to the Index. One of the top items is the "disABILTIES FAQ" which will gives lots of useful information. Post #6 discusses the GAC extensively.

Or, if you want an easier route to the FAQs, click on the link in my signature.

Some autistic children seek out noises and adventure while others panic at the very thought of loud noises.

You may first need to educate yourself on what the symptoms and/or triggers are for the nieces so you will be able to really know what to ask about. Unfortunately unless we really have more information it is not possible to give an honest and effective answer.

 

[ireland_nicole]

Hi! First of all, I'm so glad you're taking the time to prepare for this trip; you won't regret it!

I'm the mom of two kids w/ special needs, 1 w/ autism, and would love to know more about your nieces. Are they verbal? Do they have any big triggers as far as fears, etc.? Do they seek sensory input or avoid it- or both, in different ways?

For all kids, especially w/ autism, Disney can be wonderful, but also very overwhelming, and there are several things that can be really helpful for our kids.

For me, the primary things are:
having a very good plan. I also make schedules for the kids which are printed out, laminated, and gone over so they know what to expect when.

a stroller- absolute necessity. There is a fantastic offsite rental company orlandostrollerrentals.com and they have the most awesome strollers; they really shape around the child and the canopy goes all the way over them; super comfortable and easy to maneuver too. We get a stroller as w/c GAC which helps my kids in line tremendously.

a "survival kit" my kids have waist packs w/ ear protectors, sunglasses, a hat, mp3 player, fidgets, a brush for their skin, a penlight, a mirror, a snack, and gum. This allows them to increase or decrease their sensory input as needed.

I'm sure you're going to have lots of questions, and that's fine! I think THV could be great, just be sure that they're not afraid of heights and aren't runners. My kids love, love, love animals, so if I were DVC, I would probably go AKV. It really depends on the kids. Talk to their mom and show her the options, she will have a good idea of what might work for them; and y'all can find something great for all of you.

 

[bookwormde]

As has been said, so much depends on the individual child. If you dig back through this sections threads for the past year you will find lots of threads about all sort of things related to children with autism genetics and WDW. If the girls parents are going to be with you then if their parents are knowledgeable about autism genetics, then it should be pretty easy. WDW is a magical place for our children, with a little common “Autism” sense, like keeping the pace appropriate, managing sensory issues and focusing in the girls needs you should have a great time, watching the perceptions of WDW of children who are on the spectrum is a very special experience if you take the time to watch and enjoy the magic within them.

I am not sure I would get set on a treehouse as they are one of the hardest DVC reservations to book at 7 months. If not a 2br OKW is hard to beat for space and a laid-back autism friendly environment.

bookwormde

 

[KyleRayner]

Thank you everyone who responded. I will gather more info about my nieces and post it here so that you can give the proper guidance I need. Thanks again.

 

[KyleRayner]

Fortunately both girls are high functioning and verbal. They are on the mild to moderate side of the spectrum and but have completely different issues.

Sarah - 8 years old - Sound and sensory sensitive but it appears to be a build up of stimulous. For example, can handle one or two high stimulous settings without issues but not multiple ones. She has meltdowns in traffic or long waiting situations. She's high anxiety and usually needs preparation before any event.

Megan - 5 years old - Extremely social but mischievous; gets into everything. Must be watched like a hawk. Short attention span and some aggression without warning. We're unable to pinpoint the trigger for the aggressive behavior. Aggression is usually directed at family members and not strangers. Also has issue with long waiting situations.

I hope this helps and again any tips or guidance will be much appreciated.

 

[KirstenB]

Our younger dd is 4 and has autism, a mild form. We're DVCr's too. I would agree with Bookwormde's suggestion about OKW. It's the most low-key resort, and seems to offer balance from all the stimulus in the parks. There are lots of places to quietly explore and play, if the girls need some downtime.

Does Sarah have an Ipod or MP3 player? We're going to try this next trip with Zoe. She gets overwhelmed, and has a hard time regrouping. So we're going to make her a playlist of her favorite songs. I think the headphones will give her an extra break from loud noises too. Lots of little fidget toys while you're waiting in line might help. Silly things like squishy balls, pipe cleaners they can make into little animals, etc. We bring snacks etc in a backpack.

 

[KyleRayner]

Our younger dd is 4 and has autism, a mild form. We're DVCr's too. I would agree with Bookwormde's suggestion about OKW. It's the most low-key resort, and seems to offer balance from all the stimulus in the parks. There are lots of places to quietly explore and play, if the girls need some downtime.

Does Sarah have an Ipod or MP3 player? We're going to try this next trip with Zoe. She gets overwhelmed, and has a hard time regrouping. So we're going to make her a playlist of her favorite songs. I think the headphones will give her an extra break from loud noises too. Lots of little fidget toys while you're waiting in line might help. Silly things like squishy balls, pipe cleaners they can make into little animals, etc. We bring snacks etc in a backpack.

OKW is my home resort, so I would have no trouble getting a reservation there! What are your thoughts on AKV, THV, or VWL as alternative resorts? I was thinking of these places because they have relaxing atmospheres with the woods and low lighting.

Sarah doesn't have an iPod or Mp3 player but I'll mention that to her mother!

 

[mcco5543]

Hello!

I'd get as familiar as possible with the FastPass system and use it as often as humanly possible. That way you can enter the queue at a certain pre-determined time and wait for a much much shorter period of time in lines.

most of the rides in Disney are short so if she can handle higher noise-level and visual stimulation in short spurts, just mix those rides interspersed with lower level stimulation rides and attractions.

Ear plugs or head phones even without music just to block out noise is something I've heard others mention on these boards for children with sensory sensitivities.

Have a great time!

 

[KyleRayner]

Hello!

I'd get as familiar as possible with the FastPass system and use it as often as humanly possible. That way you can enter the queue at a certain pre-determined time and wait for a much much shorter period of time in lines.

most of the rides in Disney are short so if she can handle higher noise-level and visual stimulation in short spurts, just mix those rides interspersed with lower level stimulation rides and attractions.

Ear plugs or head phones even without music just to block out noise is something I've heard others mention on these boards for children with sensory sensitivities.

Have a great time!

From what I've been told, Disney's Guest Assistance Card (GAC) allows you to utilize the FP line and wheelchair entrance in some cases.

 

[jodifla]

From what I've been told, Disney's Guest Assistance Card (GAC) allows you to utilize the FP line and wheelchair entrance in some cases.

The GAC does not get you automatic Fast Passes, though. It will provide you with a quieter place to wait.

 

[KirstenB]

Kyle, I've stayed at AKV and VWL, but never Treehouse. We liked AKV, and stayed there once with both kids. VWL was kind of dark, so I wasn't that keen on it, although AKV can be too.

I guess I was just trying to think of most low-key place with a quick drive to your door, in case you need to make a retreat from the parks. Plus OKW just has a lot of places to walk and explore. AKV and VWL, maybe because they're part "hotel" seem busier, and there seem to be fewer opportunities for quiet time.

I wouldn't tell you just to stay at OKW for every visit, but since this is your nieces' first, I'm trying to think of ways to make it go especially well, kwim?

Also, I don't know what size accomodations you're looking for, but we do 2 br. Zoe really craves her own space at bedtime. If the younger dd is an escape artist, make sure you get a dedicated lockoff if you do 2 br (we too have an escape artist!!)

 

[KyleRayner]

Kyle, I've stayed at AKV and VWL, but never Treehouse. We liked AKV, and stayed there once with both kids. VWL was kind of dark, so I wasn't that keen on it, although AKV can be too.

I guess I was just trying to think of most low-key place with a quick drive to your door, in case you need to make a retreat from the parks. Plus OKW just has a lot of places to walk and explore. AKV and VWL, maybe because they're part "hotel" seem busier, and there seem to be fewer opportunities for quiet time.

I wouldn't tell you just to stay at OKW for every visit, but since this is your nieces' first, I'm trying to think of ways to make it go especially well, kwim?

Also, I don't know what size accomodations you're looking for, but we do 2 br. Zoe really craves her own space at bedtime. If the younger dd is an escape artist, make sure you get a dedicated lockoff if you do 2 br (we too have an escape artist!!)

I'll definitely be getting a 2BR regardless where we stay. I would prefer a dedicated just like you suggested. Hopefully I'll be able to get one. I'll keep in mind all your tips and discuss with my sister all the options so we can make the best decision. Thank you so much for your help!

 

[SueM in MN]

The GAC does not get you automatic Fast Passes, though. It will provide you with a quieter place to wait.

or other accommodations that meet the needs.
Because people's needs are different, not all GACs provide the same things.
There is more information about GACs in post #6 of the disABILITIES FAQs thread. While not official information, it is as official and complete as you can get - WDW does not publish anything official about GACs. The information in the thread has been shown to Guest Relations CMs who have vouched for it being accurate.

GACs are only used for attractions and if the park is busy, the attractions are only one part of the situation. Waiting in other places (like bathrooms, restaurants, etc) and moving around the park can be just as much of a problem. Many people have found that planning services like TourGuide Mike or RideMax are as useful or even more useful than a GAC because they can help you to be in the places that are least busy at the least busy times. Many people have posted that using one of those services, they never waited more than 10 minutes for anything and were in parks where the crowd levels were much more manageable for their needs.

I'm not saying not to consider a GAC, just to be aware that there are tools that may be even more helpful to you than a GAC.

Post #3 of the disABILITIES FAQs thread includes links to a lot of helpful resources, including some past threads and trip reports about guests with autism and also some hints about making a social story book.

Kyle, I've stayed at AKV and VWL, but never Treehouse. We liked AKV, and stayed there once with both kids. VWL was kind of dark, so I wasn't that keen on it, although AKV can be too.

I guess I was just trying to think of most low-key place with a quick drive to your door, in case you need to make a retreat from the parks. Plus OKW just has a lot of places to walk and explore. AKV and VWL, maybe because they're part "hotel" seem busier, and there seem to be fewer opportunities for quiet time.

I wouldn't tell you just to stay at OKW for every visit, but since this is your nieces' first, I'm trying to think of ways to make it go especially well, kwim?

Also, I don't know what size accomodations you're looking for, but we do 2 br. Zoe really craves her own space at bedtime. If the younger dd is an escape artist, make sure you get a dedicated lockoff if you do 2 br (we too have an escape artist!!)

OKW has the largest rooms of any of the DVC resorts, so if they need some space and/or separation, that is a good choice.
We have not stayed at AKV, but have visited there. One drawback I can see (besides being busier) is that AKV is very far from everything and is a long trip to anything. Once you return to the resort, you would need to walk thru some pretty busy areas to get to your room.
I agree that it can get somewhat busy too at VWL.

I think what you want would be a dedicated 2 bedroom, not a dedicated lock off. A dedicated 2 bedroom has only one door to get out - in the main living area. A lock off would have an exit door in the main living area and in the 2nd bedroom area (so that can be rented as a studio). It's late and my brain is not working any more, but I believe some of the DVC resorts have many less dedicated 2 bedrooms than others.

 

[KyleRayner]

or other accommodations that meet the needs.
Because people's needs are different, not all GACs provide the same things.
There is more information about GACs in post #6 of the disABILITIES FAQs thread. While not official information, it is as official and complete as you can get - WDW does not publish anything official about GACs. The information in the thread has been shown to Guest Relations CMs who have vouched for it being accurate.

GACs are only used for attractions and if the park is busy, the attractions are only one part of the situation. Waiting in other places (like bathrooms, restaurants, etc) and moving around the park can be just as much of a problem. Many people have found that planning services like TourGuide Mike or RideMax are as useful or even more useful than a GAC because they can help you to be in the places that are least busy at the least busy times. Many people have posted that using one of those services, they never waited more than 10 minutes for anything and were in parks where the crowd levels were much more manageable for their needs.

I'm not saying not to consider a GAC, just to be aware that there are tools that may be even more helpful to you than a GAC.

OKW has the largest rooms of any of the DVC resorts, so if they need some space and/or separation, that is a good choice.
We have not stayed at AKV, but have visited there. One drawback I can see (besides being busier) is that AKV is very far from everything and is a long trip to anything. Once you return to the resort, you would need to walk thru some pretty busy areas to get to your room.
I agree that it can get somewhat busy too at VWL.

I think what you want would be a dedicated 2 bedroom, not a dedicated lock off. A dedicated 2 bedroom has only one door to get out - in the main living area. A lock off would have an exit door in the main living area and in the 2nd bedroom area (so that can be rented as a studio). It's late and my brain is not working any more, but I believe some of the DVC resorts have many less dedicated 2 bedrooms than others.

Thanks Sue!

 

[bookwormde]

ALV Kidani is also a great resort; if your children are naturalists like my DS it is great (although we now have to make Kidani part of our stays every time). The rooms feel like they are the closest in size to OKW to me, and the pool and play area is great. It also has a very relaxed feel and you can park your car (if you have one) right below you.

For higher functioning kids managing sensory issues and keeping an appropriate pace and managing anxiety are paramount. We get to the parks early and stay till noon or so and go back to the villa and get lunch and relax , swim and generally allow decompression time. We head back to the parks (often a different one) in the late afternoon. If you have a longer vacation Seaworld is a not to miss for most of our kids.


bookwormde

 

[KyleRayner]

ALV Kidani is also a great resort; if your children are naturalists like my DS it is great (although we now have to make Kidani part of our stays every time). The rooms feel like they are the closest in size to OKW to me, and the pool and play area is great. It also has a very relaxed feel and you can park your car (if you have one) right below you.

For higher functioning kids managing sensory issues and keeping an appropriate pace and managing anxiety are paramount. We get to the parks early and stay till noon or so and go back to the villa and get lunch and relax , swim and generally allow decompression time. We head back to the parks (often a different one) in the late afternoon. If you have a longer vacation Seaworld is a not to miss for most of our kids.


bookwormde

The girls are definitely early risers, so I don't think getting to the parks will be an issue! LOL! Length of stay was also a question. When I go, I like to stay a full week, but I wasn't sure if that would be too much for them. I was toying with the idea of making it a shorter stay like 4 or 5 nights. Many people are suggesting OKW and that's my home resort, so I think I'm going to make the reservation for OKW!

 

[christymarie]

I have a child with higher functioning autism and we have found that if we spend a week at Disney we try to only go every other day to the parks. He really needs a day in between to deal with all the stimulation. Spending time at the resort swimming is more enjoyable to him than many of the rides.

Also, plan to be flexible. My Aspie hates the rides. We tried all kinds of prep before going to the parks but he still does not like rides. He loves the characters and the open play areas so be ready to split up the party if the girls don't handle what the whole party wants to do.

 

[KyleRayner]

I have a child with higher functioning autism and we have found that if we spend a week at Disney we try to only go every other day to the parks. He really needs a day in between to deal with all the stimulation. Spending time at the resort swimming is more enjoyable to him than many of the rides.

Also, plan to be flexible. My Aspie hates the rides. We tried all kinds of prep before going to the parks but he still does not like rides. He loves the characters and the open play areas so be ready to split up the party if the girls don't handle what the whole party wants to do.

Good idea about going to the parks every other day! We'll probably do that or go to the parks early and come back to the resort midday for lunch, nap, and/or a swim. The girls love to swim. I hope to utilize the quiet pool where there aren't a lot of other people around. We'll probably all stay together. I go to WDW every year so I don't have a problem skipping things if the girls aren't into it. This will be the first time for the girls going to something of Disney's magnitude, so it will be trial by fire. They could surprise us and like something we didn't think they would like and hate something we'd thought they would enjoy. We'll just wait and see! But the girls will be in charge. If they want to leave a park, we'll leave. No problem. Plus we'll have a rental car so we can come and go as we please and not have to deal with WDW transportation.

 

[bookwormde]

We go for 12-15 days typically, this allows us to not feel "pushed" and to have lots of resort, DTD, and seaworld time, of course we do a 2 or 3 way split to keep from getting bored with the resort.

We often have extended family with us for 7 or 8 days of the time.

We get DVC anual passes and go 2 out of 3 years on one pass.

bookwormde