Contributed By:

Kayla Read, A Mouse and A Beach Travel Advisor

Hey there! Do you have your Mickey Ears packed, your matching outfits (without the itchy tags) ready to go but you are wondering if your autistic kiddo will actually have a good trip at a place like Disney World? I've been there and want to encourage you in that place. Keep reading and let's dive in to helping your entire family have a magical experience.

Hi, my name is Kayla, and I'm an Autism Certified Travel Professional and a mom of three. Two of my three kiddos are Autistic. I’ve asked myself the same question above... will my family enjoy the parks? As I continue to take my kids to Disney, I’ve discovered along the way that there are a lot of things I can do beforehand, and while at Disney, to make sure we have a smooth(er) trip. Will there be meltdowns still? Probably! That’s ok, though, because that is the reality. The following tips are meant to help you prepare and shift our mindsets in order to have a sweet time with your family. 

Tip Number One: Pack Smart

Make sure you have whatever tools your kids need. Their headphones, sensory fidgets, communication devices, ponchos, fans, water bottles, favorite snacks, and a change of clothes (for parks with water rides-- iykyk) are all examples of items to pack. Sometimes being overstimulated makes it hard to try new things. Normal food items that they enjoy can be very comforting. If your children are anything like my middle, he hates being wet. Packing a change of clothes for parks with water rides can help avoid the meltdown after you ride those water rides. Remember to test those clothes on BEFORE you pack them. This extra step identifies for us if there are any scratchy seams or tags.

Tip Number Two: Plan Smart

Sensory overload from the heat can definitely create some not-so-magical moments. Something that always helps my littles is rotating between indoor and outdoor attractions. This way you are staying cool and slowly transitioning into the heat of the day. This also works with water rides too. Either ride those last or first and change immediately after. If your family does ok with sit down restaurants, it may not be a bad idea to break up the day by taking some time to rest and enjoy a table service restaurant midday.

Tip Number Three: Find Quiet Spots

With all the noises and sounds of the incredibly interactive parks can be a lot to take. That’s where Quiet Spots come in. Disney has some quiet nooks tucked away in areas of their parks that are great to just sit and breathe.

Pro Tip: I know where these spots are and have created guides for my clients that help them know where they are too! 

Tip Number Four: Apply for DAS

Disney has a Disability Access Service designed for those who can not wait in long lines due to various limitations. You can register as early as 60 days before your first park visit. If approved, you will be given return times to enter the lightning lanes for attractions and have a much shorter wait time. I also work with my clients and assist them with this process so they know what to expect.

Tip Number Five: Rest Days are a Must

Going to a park every day can cause burnout and overwhelm. Honestly, it’s not necessary to go every day of your trip. Disney World has INCREDIBLE resorts that are perfect to enjoy on those slower days. This could mean you sleep in, take it easy, chill by the pool, or even mini golf (which is included in Disney Packages). On these planned slower days, we try really hard to do stuff that is as low key as possible. That way we aren’t starting the next park day on empty. I highly advise doing either one rest day midway through the trip or even do alternating rest and park days for ultimate ease. 

Tip Number Six: Watch Attraction POV’s

One way my family prepares is by watching ride POV’s (Point of Views) and step by step videos on what to expect. This helps everyone know what is going to happen so there are no surprises. It also helps my kids see what type of restraints are on each ride. Even if we’ve been dozens of times before, this tip helps us remain up to date on any restraint changes. Sometimes even this small reminder of what the ride looks like helps them feel more confident and comfortable to ride.

This is just the beginning of our journey together. Want more help with your vacation to Disney? Reach out, I have plenty of tools and resources for your family to have the best inclusive vacation. 

-Kayla Read

AMAAB Travel Advisor and Certified Autism Travel Professional

@TravelingRedBalloon