Should we ask for DAS or not?

[Mickey ears all my years]

We will be in Disney World this Summer from the Uk ( me, dh, dd6, and dds4).
My son is a preemie and had many complications at birth, consequently he suffered brain damage and has severe learning difficulties. He is mobile but tires easily and so we will likely be doing 2-3 hours before a break. He struggles with comprehension, sometimes noises, and has a poor concept of time. He also has a congenital brain defect which may have always contributed to his learning difficulties regardless of his preemie nature and lack of oxygen.
Would this be considered as a cause for a DAS? As his disability is invisible I guess I sometimes feel that people may feel it isn't necessary.
I do find it painful to talk through with people and would rather not start our holiday by trying to explain his needs to somebody if it is unlikely he would be given one.

 

[lanejudy]

You will have to explain how those conditions negatively impact his ability to wait in a standard queue environment. The DAS is need-based, not diagnosis-based. You will likely fare best requesting a stroller-as-wheelchair tag so he can remain in his stroller through the queues rather than having to park it and walk/carry him.

The WDW - Disability Access Service thread pinned near the top of this forum explains DAS. Only the first post is relevant, the rest was discussion from the time the program rolled out.

Enjoy your vacation!

 

[gap2368]

When you go to Guest relations the Cast member will ask you what are your ( his) concerns in line. are you concerned he will tier out from standing in line, are you concerned that he will overheat, and so forth? Think of how he does at a local theme park or fair. If you are not sure then I would suggest you try without the DAS and see how he does in line. You can make bolit points if talking about his needs as it has to do with waiting in line would help you but the CM will not look at a Dr note

 

[momto3pirates]

We have found using FP along with a stroller as a wheelchair tag works great. The wheelchair tag allows strollers to go in ride lines. My DD has mobility issues and autism but we have not used the DAS.

 

[anonymousegirl]

For many children with similar issues, the stroller-as-a-wheelchair helps a lot. It gives the child a secure place to wait and you can use a blanket or scarf draped over it to make a "blanket fort" to block stimuli. It also provides a space cushion between the child and the people in the queue. I recommend using your own stroller as it will be more comfortable for your son. If he is not currently using a stroller at home, rent one from one of the recommended companies that deliver to Disney, as they are much more cushioned than the Disney-rented ones, which have a molded hard plastic seat and frame.

 

[Mickey ears all my years]

Thanks for the advice everyone

 

[LoveMMC]

I agree. Stroller as wheelchair is such a life saver for my little guy with autism. Fp and good scheduling will allow you to gets lots done. Ask for a das explaining your needs, but know you already have a good plan with the fp and stroller.

 

[Betty Rohrer]

Thanks for the advice everyone

you will be at Guest Services for stroller tag so you can ask about DAS but I would plan on not getting it and be surprised if you receive one. I see the stroller tag giving more than the DAS because even with DAS you are going to have waits just not in line. remember the tag does not allow him to ride in stroller on buses or any transportation that requires strollers to be folded