New Diagnosis of Asperger's

[nun69]

and just wondering what I could do to make Disney a better experience for my son (6)? He does not handle alot of noise/crowds too well (which is what they are currently working on for his IEP) but he really is an outgoing kid and I think he would enjoy all the fun Disney has to offer. I will be going with Dh, DD (20) , DS (12) DD (7) and DS (6...Asperger's)......I want to make it as easy as possible for all of us to have a great time, but especially Peyton. We are going the end of August and rented a condo instead of staying in a hotel for breaks and such. He is on medication, so that does help...but looking for advice on traveling (driving from WA) and going to Disney.

 

[bocaj1431]

I also have a child with autism and we went on our 1st vacation last year to disney world. The following are some of the tools I used to help my son be able to enjoy himself. Ear phones or earbuds with mp3 to listen to favorite music & to drown out some of the loud sounds in the park, or you can use noise canceling ear phones. Hand held electronics or favorite book to distract while in line. Practice Social stories now for difficult situations you foresee. Breaks are a must throughout the park and usually best if you can go back to hotel during the afternoon. I laminated a card with hotel info, name, phone number etc. placed in a laminated pouch to wear around my son's neck, just in case he got lost. I even decorated it with his favorite pins. I also brought a Doctors note, which explained my son's diagnosis and what might possibly be difficult for him. I then brought this to guest services for a Guest assistance card (GAC). This was a true life saver. We used a separate entrance that had way less congestion (sensory issues). Most important to us was there were fewer stares or snickers from people responding to some of my sons behaviors. He gets very upset when people do this and we had none of these problems using the separate entrance. A Friend of mine carries around business cards that have a brief message about autism and hands them to those, who have the nerve to be so cruel. I hope this helps a little. Have a great trip.

 

[joanchris]

Just because your son's diagnosis is new he is the same child he was before the diagnosis. Having the diagnosis may help you with new strategies to reduce any stress or anxiety for him, but just stick with what you know works for him, whether it's predictability--having him know the park for the day, the ride you plan to head to first etc, or other strategies that have worked for you in the past.
I wouldn't make a rigid plan, or if you do maybe not share with him, so that there is room for flexibility depending on circumstances. If he's used to familiar snacks during the day bring some, if he'll try new or different Disney things, great, but sometimes it's the little things that can make children feel more comfortable when away at a busy place like Disney.
Have a great time!