WDW with my Mentally Challenged Son

[lillyandlexisnana]

Im hoping it is ok to ask this here. I see that Disney has some services for those who are Physically Handicapped, but I am wondering what about those who have Mental Disabilities? I have an 18 year old son, and this will be our first trip to Disney in 2012. He will be 21 at the time, he has TORCH Syndrome and Bipolar 1 Disorder and he is Moderatly Mentally Retarded (for want of a better word). He basically has the mind of a 7 year old. Ive sat down and explained to him that we will be going to Disney. He is so exicted. He doesnt understand why he cant be included in the Childrens Activities and I have to tell him that he is a Big Guy now, and he has to do things with the Adults. So, with that being said, I am trying to look into some things that will make him feel included. We are bringing our 3 and 4 year old Granddaughters along as well. He isnt going to understand "why" he cant do some of the things they will be able to do. I am thinking of getting some Disney Dollars beforehand and letting him earn them,by doing chores, so that he has something to look forward to and feels included. Do any of you have any ideas as to how we might make him feel special and included on the trip? Does Disney take into account their mental status as far as allowing them to do or not do certain activities? Should I even let them know about his handicaps beforehand? I mean, I dont want him singled out or any undue attention brought to him, but at the same time, I dont want him to feel like he isnt being included either. As I previously stated, his mindset is about a 7 year old, so he likes to do things that children that age normally do. Would appreciate some suggestions. Thank you!

 

[Stellapedia]

I would ask. Call and ask if he can do some of the kid's activities, they might let him. I mean, they need adults there anyway, so they can accomodate an adult size body, there is no reason not to let him. If he can listen and behave as well as the average child in the age group it is targeted to, I don't understand why they wouldn't allow him. I'm thinking of the pirate cruise, coconut races, etc. Asking generally gets you a lot with Disney.

 

[SueM in MN]

I am not sure what kinds of activities you are asking about.
If the question is about things like Kid's Clubs, he would not be able to attend those. They are licensed as child care providers, the same as day care centers. They can't take care of anyone older than their license allows.

For attractions, all of the movies, rides and shows are meant and sized for adults as well as children. Many people are familiar with local parks that have some child sized rides that adults can't ride on. WDW doesn't have any of those - he would be able to go on every attraction that your grand daughters are going on (all the adults in your group will be able to).

His needs may be similar to someone with autism, so I would suggest you follow the link in my signature to the disABILITIES FAQs thread. Post 3 of that thread includes links to past threads that might be useful to you.

Some other things he may enjoy that have no age limit:
- the Kidcot activities at Epcot are meant for children, but I have seen adults sitting at the tables doing the activities with their children, so he would be welcome there along with your grand daughters. The activities involve a mask that can be taken to various stations and decorated.

- pressed penny machines are available in all the parks. You put a penny into the machine and it presssed the penny flat with a picture of a Disney character. Those are very popular with many children and young adults with autism.

- pin trading is also a popular activity. CMs wear pins that you can look at an then ask to trade for one you have. This is popular with adults and children. Many people with autism enjoy pin-trading and it is a good way to practice social skills and appropriate social interactions. Some people have written up social stories and practiced pin trading before goint to WDW.

- DJ at Downtown Disney. Check the schedule while you are at WDW to see if a DJ night is planned while you are there. The DJ plays current music and also has contests (like limbo, hula hoop). Kids of all ages (even adults) participate.

AND. I am going to move this thread to the disABILITIES Board where we have more general discussions about disABILITIES and WDW.