survial things to bring scared! first trip ever HELP!

[Mother23SNkids]

I am hoping someone will reply to this. We are a family of 5. 3 boys and two adults. we are suppose to be taking our first ever family trip around fathers day and I am so scared. All 3 of our boys are special needs. the oldest being Autistic, ADHD, odd, ocd, aniexty and some other challenges . our middle being severely ADHD , Odd and Mood disorder and our youngest having braces and developmentally delayed . I am scared because of the long plane ride and how they will do and if we will have melt downs or get kicked off. I am scared that when we get to Disney land that we are going to run into problems with getting a DAS card which i have been reading up on and worried that they maybe just rumors and what is actual fact and how things will go when we are there or if we are going to have bolting issues. From one parent of Autistic/adhd/special needs kids to another I need survial idea's or things to bring along and info. PLEASE HELP!!

 

[Maggie'sMom]

My DD has a mood disorder, ADHD, and sensory issues. The number one thing for us to bring are her noise-reducing earmuffs. We also sometimes use her mp3 player to drown out the ambient noise with music that she likes.

For the airplane, a portable DVD player and/or ipad are great for distraction. Coloring books and a small pack of crayons were also good for the plane ride. To help her with pressure in her ears, giving her ring pops helped better than a drink or gum. Jolly ranchers also worked well.

You don't say how old your boys are, but if they will still ride in a stroller, I'd recommend that plus get a "stroller as a wheelchair" sticker at Guest Services when you stop in for the DAS card. A stroller can act as a buffer to everything going on around the child and help keep the child calm.

 

[lanejudy]

I love the ring pops idea! Thank you!

 

[Maggie'sMom]

I love the ring pops idea! Thank you!

You're welcome! I actually stumbled on that by accident. Just before a trip one of my DD's babysitters had dropped off some ring pops that she had leftover after Halloween trick or treat. When making up a bag of snacks to take on the plane, I threw a bunch of those in. DD happened to be sucking on one as the plane landed and it was the first ever landing that didn't have her crying in pain. It must be the way she sucks on them because they work better than any other candy, gum, or drink that I've tried. Ring pops instantly made their way onto my "plane essentials" list.

 

[Danadanes]

I have an 11 year old with autism; we've gone several times but this will be the first since he was 7. You didn't say how old your boys were and where you were staying. Our first several trips we stayed off site. When DS was harder to "handle" it was nice to have space for him to decompress after a day at the parks. ANd to have our own pool for him to relax in.

We are going for the first time with his 4 year old brother as a family this summer and staying on site. We plan to have our car at the parks for quick exits from the park. When it is time to go, it is time to GO!

The only thing i would say to bring is your patience. We have had amazing therapeutic leaps everytime we have gone to Disney, maybe because we were all so relaxed!

Tell us a little more about your sons ages/interests and I'll see if I have any ideas!

 

[lcataldimay]

I have a 6 year old ASD son. One thing that really helped was going on YouTube and watching videos of the rides. That way we could say, "Remember the Pooh ride?" It made things slightly easier.

I was petrified of the plane ride also. Call your airport and ask if they have any programs for children with ASD? We flew SouthWest. They took us through security so we did not have to wait and also let us pre-board. They also let him walk on a plane before just to check it out. That was a mistake, however , because he wanted to stay on the plane

My biggest take away last time was that I needed to remain calm. If he started to have a melt down, I found a corner and talked with him there. Let your children dictate the schedule.

Disney went out of their way to help us if he was throwing a fit. We have not been with the new card yet, but plan on using the combination you suggested.

Good luck and enjoy spending time with your family.

 

[Mother23SNkids]

My DD has a mood disorder, ADHD, and sensory issues. The number one thing for us to bring are her noise-reducing earmuffs. We also sometimes use her mp3 player to drown out the ambient noise with music that she likes.

For the airplane, a portable DVD player and/or ipad are great for distraction. Coloring books and a small pack of crayons were also good for the plane ride. To help her with pressure in her ears, giving her ring pops helped better than a drink or gum. Jolly ranchers also worked well.

You don't say how old your boys are, but if they will still ride in a stroller, I'd recommend that plus get a "stroller as a wheelchair" sticker at Guest Services when you stop in for the DAS card. A stroller can act as a buffer to everything going on around the child and help keep the child calm.

They are 11, 9 and 5 yrs old. he wont fit into a stroller.

 

[Mother23SNkids]

I have an 11 year old with autism; we've gone several times but this will be the first since he was 7. You didn't say how old your boys were and where you were staying. Our first several trips we stayed off site. When DS was harder to "handle" it was nice to have space for him to decompress after a day at the parks. ANd to have our own pool for him to relax in.

We are going for the first time with his 4 year old brother as a family this summer and staying on site. We plan to have our car at the parks for quick exits from the park. When it is time to go, it is time to GO!

The only thing i would say to bring is your patience. We have had amazing therapeutic leaps everytime we have gone to Disney, maybe because we were all so relaxed!

Tell us a little more about your sons ages/interests and I'll see if I have any ideas!

It is a off site one. my mil has is booked i am not sure of the name of it but its suppose to be apparently close to the entrance of DL. My oldest is obsessed with Games that is his main thing. i am worried if i bring the i pad he will disturb others with it with the noise and also because sometimes he makes battle noises like shooting noises. which i don't understand he doesn't get to play violent games other then yu-gi-oh i would say is the most violent. that's his favorite. he loves RPG's. gosh knows i dont want to get kicked off a plane cause of him making battle noises. i think that is one of my biggest fears. I can download movies on it. i have an app that has a couple on it that i have downloaded was thinking ear buds maybe a good investment. For the younger two they like games as well, and I think the coloring will work but i worry they will be fighting over ipad. so wondering if i should get the other two a device with games on it. I'm not sure all you are allowed to bring on planes. i have never been on a plane.

 

[Mother23SNkids]

I also forgot to mention we will have one day at sea world. are there any services there that they provide???

 

[WheeledTraveler]

Are you going to Disneyland (CA) or Disneyworld (FL)? I realized I was assuming you were going to Disneyworld, but most of what I'm writing is true for either. What is different is whether you'll be dealing with Fastpass or Fastpass+. Disneyland does not have Fastpass+ (it has traditional Fastpass) and Disneyworld only has Fastpass+.

You can bring any electronic device that a kid would want on an airplane. What you do need to do is have them wear headphones/earphone or turn the sound off. Also, the devices need to be off during take-off and landing. So if that's going to be an issue, you might want to think about other distractions. I've been on planes with kids making noises while playing games/doing other things and unless it's unduly loud (i.e. shouting), it's not going to upset people. I think you're being overly paranoid about getting kicked off the plane due to noises/behavior of your kids. Yes it happens, but it's incredibly rare. It's just that the rare cases are the ones that make the news (if it wasn't rare, it wouldn't make the news every time). Since you haven't flown yourself before, is there any way you could do just a short flight somewhere by yourself (or with your husband) even just for a day or a single night? That way you have the experience of knowing what it's like to fly and have those nerves for yourself out of the way before going with the kids.

I would highly suggest bringing (or renting) a stroller and getting a "stroller as a wheelchair" card for your youngest since you say he has braces. You will walk miles, even if you don't notice it (fewer miles at DL than WDW, but still miles). The stroller as a wheelchair tag will let him use the stroller in lines as well as between rides. It doesn't mean he has to use it through lines, but it gives the option. You might want to also consider renting either a pediatric wheelchair or a larger special needs stroller (and getting a stroller as wheelchair tag) for the older kids to trade off on. Just having the extra space can make a difference for some kids with ASD. It means they feel like they have something "safe" to sit in while in lines. You should be able to rent either offsite at either park so that it will be delivered and picked up from your hotel.

I'd suggest checking out the sticky at the top of the board regarding whichever park you are going to and the new DAS system. It may help when it comes to dealing with your kids and lines. The DAS allows you to get a return time for rides with longer wait times. This means that rather than standing in a 1 hour line, you can go wait somewhere else. The general principle is the same at both WDW and DL, but the details are a little different (at WDW you get the return times at the rides, but at DL you get them at specific kiosks).

 

[lost*in*cyberspace]

....
You can bring any electronic device that a kid would want on an airplane. What you do need to do is have them wear headphones/earphone or turn the sound off. Also, the devices need to be off during take-off and landing. going with the kids......

I agree; headphones need to be used or the sound must be turned off. However, electronics no longer need to be turned off during take-off and landing.

 

[Danadanes]

It is a off site one. my mil has is booked i am not sure of the name of it but its suppose to be apparently close to the entrance of DL. My oldest is obsessed with Games that is his main thing. i am worried if i bring the i pad he will disturb others with it with the noise and also because sometimes he makes battle noises like shooting noises. which i don't understand he doesn't get to play violent games other then yu-gi-oh i would say is the most violent. that's his favorite. he loves RPG's. gosh knows i dont want to get kicked off a plane cause of him making battle noises. i think that is one of my biggest fears. I can download movies on it. i have an app that has a couple on it that i have downloaded was thinking ear buds maybe a good investment. For the younger two they like games as well, and I think the coloring will work but i worry they will be fighting over ipad. so wondering if i should get the other two a device with games on it. I'm not sure all you are allowed to bring on planes. i have never been on a plane.

We drive, so I can't help you much on the plane part. For that I would just go into survival mode - whatever we can do to make son quiet and calm, we would do (even if it means his own Ipad the whole time, with nonstop candy).

Since your son likes RPG, I want to mention there are 2 fantasy type adventures that are included with the park tickets - one at MK and one at Epcot, where you can do "quests" across the park. I can't remember the names. I think the one at MK is called something like Sorcerers Quest, and the Epcot one is maybe Agent P? Anyway, you get something like a phone, and follow clues from spot to spot. Then there are interactive places throughout the park to get more clues... I know my son will love it, and i hope to do it while we are waiting for DAS times.

Sounds like you will have 3 adults and 3 kids. I would think about splitting up some and taking some special "alone" time with each kid so they get to go at their own pace, doing something nice together.

Have fun!!

 

[Mother23SNkids]

Are you going to Disneyland (CA) or Disneyworld (FL)? I realized I was assuming you were going to Disneyworld, but most of what I'm writing is true for either. What is different is whether you'll be dealing with Fastpass or Fastpass+. Disneyland does not have Fastpass+ (it has traditional Fastpass) and Disneyworld only has Fastpass+.

You can bring any electronic device that a kid would want on an airplane. What you do need to do is have them wear headphones/earphone or turn the sound off. Also, the devices need to be off during take-off and landing. So if that's going to be an issue, you might want to think about other distractions. I've been on planes with kids making noises while playing games/doing other things and unless it's unduly loud (i.e. shouting), it's not going to upset people. I think you're being overly paranoid about getting kicked off the plane due to noises/behavior of your kids. Yes it happens, but it's incredibly rare. It's just that the rare cases are the ones that make the news (if it wasn't rare, it wouldn't make the news every time). Since you haven't flown yourself before, is there any way you could do just a short flight somewhere by yourself (or with your husband) even just for a day or a single night? That way you have the experience of knowing what it's like to fly and have those nerves for yourself out of the way before going with the kids.

I would highly suggest bringing (or renting) a stroller and getting a "stroller as a wheelchair" card for your youngest since you say he has braces. You will walk miles, even if you don't notice it (fewer miles at DL than WDW, but still miles). The stroller as a wheelchair tag will let him use the stroller in lines as well as between rides. It doesn't mean he has to use it through lines, but it gives the option. You might want to also consider renting either a pediatric wheelchair or a larger special needs stroller (and getting a stroller as wheelchair tag) for the older kids to trade off on. Just having the extra space can make a difference for some kids with ASD. It means they feel like they have something "safe" to sit in while in lines. You should be able to rent either offsite at either park so that it will be delivered and picked up from your hotel.

I'd suggest checking out the sticky at the top of the board regarding whichever park you are going to and the new DAS system. It may help when it comes to dealing with your kids and lines. The DAS allows you to get a return time for rides with longer wait times. This means that rather than standing in a 1 hour line, you can go wait somewhere else. The general principle is the same at both WDW and DL, but the details are a little different (at WDW you get the return times at the rides, but at DL you get them at specific kiosks).

i will be fine its not me i am worried about . and its disney land. i got something today that i think will distract them after we take off and before we land hopefully we wont have any meltdowns. i would like to get a stroller for them . when you say off site do you mean like i would have to go to the store and buy one??? or do they have them to rent at the park but outside the doors?
im sorry this is my first time going since i was very very young myself. and what is a kiosks?

 

[lanejudy]

i will be fine its not me i am worried about . and its disney land. i got something today that i think will distract them after we take off and before we land hopefully we wont have any meltdowns. i would like to get a stroller for them . when you say off site do you mean like i would have to go to the store and buy one??? or do they have them to rent at the park but outside the doors?
im sorry this is my first time going since i was very very young myself. and what is a kiosks?

If you have a stroller you like and they are used to, bring that. It'll be easier plus you'll have it to keep them corralled while waiting at the airport. A stroller can be gate-checked, which means you get to push it all the way to the airplane door, then fold it up and leave it just outside the door to be stowed for the flight. This won't count towards your baggage allowance; no fee.

If you don't have, or don't want to bring, a stroller from home -- I'm sure there are stroller rentals in the Anaheim area. A quick Google search for "stroller rental disneyland" brought up several. The rentals onsite in the park won't be as comfortable and are very low to the ground. If you think he's too big, check out what are known as "special needs strollers" which are somewhat larger. At WDW most are cumbersome to fold and carry onto buses, but at DLR that won't be a concern and I'm assuming you are at one of the Good Neighbor Resorts within walking distance.

I would recommend searching YouTube for videos of the parks and rides to share with the boys so they can be prepared. Also, you can find social stories about flying that might be helpful if your boys do social stories. Or ask a teacher or therapist at home to help them prepare -- DD's providers have been more than willing to help with a "special project" to help her prepare for things coming up in our family life.

Enjoy your vacation!

 

[I Love Pluto]

I don't have a child with autism, so I don't know what that is like. I can't help you with that.

I do have disabilities - and was fearful when we went to WDW in Dec. All I can say is this - If you have ANY questions, go to Guest Services at whichever park you are at. They are extremely kind, and they WILL help you. We had no idea what to do about DAS when we went. The CMs at Guest Services explained everything! Everything!

Honest - you have no need to worry. It will all turn out just fine. Trust me!

 

[Princess Olivia]

Hello!! I have four children my two youngest boys ages 5 and 3 are autistic. My 5 yr old has more language than my 3 yr old who is non verbal. We are DVC owners so we have taken the boys twice to WDW. The Ipad was invaluable. Calling the airline was huge. They'll flag you as needing special accommodations. We have expedited security and early boarding. This is an advantage to everyone. You and the kids will feel better and the passengers won't endure the chaos that "could" ensue. Last time we flew both boys had respiratory issues and my Dr said to give a bit of children's benedryl to them to help dry up their ears. This has a side bonus of sleep. No flaming. Doctor suggested but worked well when they weren't feeling great. Also called Bay Lake Tower and asked for a no water view. No pool or lake. My boys are obsessed with water and they are "runners". If they saw the water they would do anything they could to get to it. There is NO safety awareness with them. I didn't take any chances. I brought ipad everywhere we went. Dinners went beautifully because of it. The cast members are AWESOME! They're pretty educated on the needs of these kids. They are very helpful. I always give a heads up to any character they are greeting. For us this works better than the expectation that the kids are going to speak with them when all they really want is to touch or hug them. I have AMAZING pictures with characters that make me cry whenever I see them. They are so gentle and sweet. Mr incredible is on his knees hugging my then 3 year old while Mrs incredible is covering her mouth and waiting for her hug. Letting them know is good. As others have said stroller as wheelchair also invaluable.
You'll have a great trip and the kids will love it. Just being out in the sunshine and all the beautiful sights stimulate wonderful things. I know the stress of the unknown but all you can do is ask the questions you're asking, be informed and then go with the flow!! Have fun!!

 

[Mother23SNkids]

thank you everyone for your replies. i do have another question but its related to Disney land. does any one know if jack skeleton from the movie nightmare before Christmas. if they have anything there with him in it. this is all our youngest one has been talking about and keeps asking us everyday if we are going yet. also does any one know where i can down load a social story about going on a plane or anything related to it. i have never done social story's before so i haven't a clue where to look with either Ipad, anidriod tablet, or just to print off maybe?? i have just always explained things and sometimes things work out and sometimes they don't but never being on a plane myself i don't know what to expect. thanks everyone

 

[Mother23SNkids]

Hello!! I have four children my two youngest boys ages 5 and 3 are autistic. My 5 yr old has more language than my 3 yr old who is non verbal. We are DVC owners so we have taken the boys twice to WDW. The Ipad was invaluable. Calling the airline was huge. They'll flag you as needing special accommodations. We have expedited security and early boarding. This is an advantage to everyone. You and the kids will feel better and the passengers won't endure the chaos that "could" ensue. Last time we flew both boys had respiratory issues and my Dr said to give a bit of children's benedryl to them to help dry up their ears. This has a side bonus of sleep. No flaming. Doctor suggested but worked well when they weren't feeling great. Also called Bay Lake Tower and asked for a no water view. No pool or lake. My boys are obsessed with water and they are "runners". If they saw the water they would do anything they could to get to it. There is NO safety awareness with them. I didn't take any chances. I brought ipad everywhere we went. Dinners went beautifully because of it. The cast members are AWESOME! They're pretty educated on the needs of these kids. They are very helpful. I always give a heads up to any character they are greeting. For us this works better than the expectation that the kids are going to speak with them when all they really want is to touch or hug them. I have AMAZING pictures with characters that make me cry whenever I see them. They are so gentle and sweet. Mr incredible is on his knees hugging my then 3 year old while Mrs incredible is covering her mouth and waiting for her hug. Letting them know is good. As others have said stroller as wheelchair also invaluable.
You'll have a great trip and the kids will love it. Just being out in the sunshine and all the beautiful sights stimulate wonderful things. I know the stress of the unknown but all you can do is ask the questions you're asking, be informed and then go with the flow!! Have fun!!

how earlier in advance should i call them or have her call them???my mil is the one that setup the arrangements thru a travel agent. the trip is not until June.

 

[Mother23SNkids]

how earlier in advance should i call them or have her call them???my mil is the one that setup the arrangements thru a travel agent. the trip is not until June.

what information do i need handy if any one i talk to someone from the airlines as well??? like i said it was my mil that set everything up.