Universal with non-verbal, autistic son and his older brothers

[mtnprotracy]

I'll admit, we are Disney fanatics...don't know if we would have ever considered Universal had it not been for the WW of HP. Our older boys are 14 and 15 and grew up with HP; they really want to go. Their 11 year-old younger brother is autistic. We became WDW fanatics because they are SO good with special needs kids. What can I expect from Universal? He won't ride many rides, but I know he will love the Barney show and the Suess stuff. I can't predict what issues will arise. All I know is whatever the issue (be if food, transportation, staying in his wheelchair/stroller in line) WDW always makes it easy for us. If that isn't going to be the case at Universal, I'd rather him not go.

I hope you can find my questions embedded in all the jibberish above. I'm about ready to book, but can't decide if we should leave Zeke (autistic son) with my parents.

All thoughts and suggestions will be most appreciated =)!

 

[mjohnson96]

I think you and your family will enjoy Universal just becuase it is not as hetic has WDW can be. If you are staying onsite transporation will be much easier becuase you don't have to worry about taking a bus and the loading/unloading process when it comes to wheelchairs.

There are nice paths to the park from each of the hotels and depending on which one you stay at the walk is around 10 - 15 minutes, PBH sometimes longer. If you take a boat you can just wheel your chair onto the boat or if you are using a stroller then that also will go on quiet easily.

US does try to accomadate people that need guest assistance. Just go up to the customer service desk and they will let you know what they can do. I know you can take a non motorized wheelchair through the line either by the normal que or a back entrance area.

Just try to remember that it is not Disney and relax, The sites at IOA are wonderful, if you are not able to ride anything and all the different islands have lots to look at.

Hope you have a great time and enjoy your stay.

 

[damo]

I know that we have a few people whose children with autism really enjoy the parks and the hotels. Hopefully they will notice your post and help you out.

 

[Albytaps]

You might want to keep him out of WWOHP. It's a tight space for the amount of people.

 

[mtnprotracy]

Thanks for the information....I did find some more insight on the DISability Forum. I think he'll be fine. Worse case scenario we'll REALLY enjoy the pool at the Loew's hotel...it will have to be warmer than WNC that time of year =)!!!