WDW and child with eating disorder?

[nov02mom]

We're going in Sept. with our son- he's 5, and has Asperger's and several other sensory issues. The biggest one is that he doesn't eat soid food (almost total oral aversion- gagging etc...UGH). We had to buy the Dining Plan for him.
Will any of the restaurants let a grownup eat some of his food, maybe with an appetizer or salad instead of us just ordering food to throw away?

 

[bookwormde]

Not a specialist on dining plans but we have picky aspergers ds8 and we have always “traded around” food. I think your child’s food would come from the children’s menu so if you like that fare then I would not see a problem. I am sure someone with specific experience with the dining plans will chime in.

bookwormde

 

[lucigo]

We just returned from 7 nights on the DDP with our ASD 4-1/2yo son who is an extremely picky eater. At a couple of the table services he wouldn't eat anything on the menu so we weren't charged for him, although they did bring him a free drink. At Garden Grill they brought him a meal, and when he wouldn't eat it (he was upset about the table moving) they didn't charge us and told us we could still take the meal with us so maybe he would eat it later. Long story short we ended up with 3 extra kids table service meals. We went to Sci-Fi (3 adults and 1 child) and we ordered 3 kids meals. They had no problem with us eating his meals!

We did learn the hard way, don't assume all restaurants will have something your child likes to eat. I really thought all disney restaurants would have chicken nuggets or AT LEAST french fries..but several didn't. However, all of the restaurants were very accomodating! At Hollywood and Vine our waiter actually went over to Prime Time and brought us a plate of chicken and fries! At Boma the waiter went to the back and brought us out chicken that wasn't on the buffet. Don't be afraid to ask!

Oh and BTW, the counter service meals aren't separated out into child/adult, you can get all adult meals and never get a child meal if you chose to do so.

 

[nov02mom]

Thanks y'all!!

 

[mamaloya]

Does he eat soup? You may call ahead and see if there are any soups available. I have found the chefs to go above and beyond the call of duty when it comes to food needs/restrictions.

 

[SmallWorld71]

Sorry, I posted in the wrong place.
I hope you enjoy your trip.

 

[seashoreCM]

Will any of the restaurants let a grownup eat some of his food, maybe with an appetizer or salad instead of us just ordering food to throw away?

1. I would eat it anyway.
2. I would have it put in a doggie bag to nibble on between meals.

Disney hints: http://members.aol.com/ajaynejr/disney.htm

 

[dclfun]

You can also call ahead and have it noted on any ADR's that he has dietary needs, then specify the types of foods he will eat ( if he feels like eating them that day ). I too have found the restaurants to be very accommodating with waiters going to another venue if necessary ( Flying Fish going over to ESPN for chicken strips/fries as an example) to get desired foods for someone who really won't want something else on the menu. As was mentioned, the credits belong to your family and can be used by anyone in your family if need be.---Kathy

 

[mechurchlady]

I have also seen posts where they mention that they have gotten soft foods and others have gotten pureed foods. the chefts at table restaurants can make smashed potato or food the consistency of baby food. Just let them know.

 

[Luv Bunnies]

Both of my boys are picky eaters. I read through all of the menus on allearsnet.com before making any ADRs. I only booked the places where I knew everyone would like something on the menu. In some cases, we ordered my son 2 pieces of plain bread and a side of fries. I carried Jif Singles in my purse and made him a PB sandwich. I also made a list of counter service places that had things my kids would eat. When we wanted lunch, I would just whip out my list a find a place that was close by.

Also, at the Plaza Restaurant at MK, the kids meals came with tomato soup which the waitress automatically brought. My DH and I ate it since the kids wouldn't touch it. Just go ahead and order everything that comes with the kids meals. Anyone at the table can eat it once it comes. Have a good trip!

 

[modomo]

We haven't ever used the DDP, but here's a little funny about my DS w/ Asperger's. He is extremely picky and from the age of 2-5or6, he would only eat his PB sandwich made in the shape of a Christmas Tree. So when we visited Disney, I would pack his meals. Here we would march in and order for ourselves and DDs, and he would eat his Christmas tree. We've endured more than one strange look! We never had anyone say anything to us about bringing in food or snacks from outside the park. Basic line, do what works! Enjoy your trip!

 

[nov02mom]

Thanks y'all!!! I keep hoping for a food breakthrough. Maybe before Sept. he will try some solid food!!! I'm just going to bring his baby food and order myself some kids meals.