Disneyland with Autism

After writing my post about doing Disney World with a child on the spectrum, I realized I should probably do a quick update for Disneyland, as some of the information is a bit different!  Much of this article will be the same, with a few key differences, including the attraction list.  Like Disney World, it is perfectly possible to have a stress-free vacation, as long as you do some planning in advance!

I would love to help you with the planning portion of your trip.  If you would like customized vacation planning, fill out the form HERE
or you can schedule a phone consultation
HERE

What Disney Offers

1. Disability Access Service 

This is the pass given to individuals with a disability.  It can only be given in person when you arrive at the park, and cannot be pre-arranged.  A picture of the guest will be taken when the pass is granted.  The pass permits the guest to "check in" at an attraction and return later with no line.  Guests will be given a return time similar to the posted wait.  So, it doesn't eliminate the wait, but it does eliminate the line.  Note that you are only able to have one return time on your account at a time, but you can use Fastpass in addition while you are waiting for your return time.  Disability Access Service passes are good for the length of your stay.  You should visit Guest Services as soon as possible at the following locations:

Disneyland Park- City Hall, 

Disney's California Adventure- Chamber of Commerce (near the main entrance) 

2. Stroller Rentals

It is always a good idea to consider a stroller when taking kids-even ones who may be "too old" for a stroller-to the parks.  There is a tremendous amount of walking!  Strollers can be rented at designated locations toward the front of each park, or through third party stroller rental companies.  Typically, you would have to park your stroller before entering a ride queue; however, you can ask Guest Services to issue you a tag that will allow you to take your stroller into the line.  It is very important to get this tag when you first arrive, as the queues are monitored and the stroller rule is strictly enforced!

3. Rider Switch

Rider Switch is for parties of 3 or more and allows you to ride an attraction while another member of your party waits with the guest who is unable to ride.  You then switch places so the other riding member of your party can ride without having to wait in the line.  This works if the original party has fastpass or not.  You simply ask for a Rider Switch pass at the entrance to the attraction.  They will give you a pass as you board the attraction, which you  transfer to the waiting member of your party so they can ride after.  Note that the guest who isn't riding will have to be present when you request Rider Switch.

4. Break Areas

Should your child become overwhelmed, here are some of my favorite places to escape the crowds.  You can also visit First Aid Stations, located in every park.

Disneyland Park-

Winnie the Pooh attraction area
Tarzan's Treehouse
Mickey’s Toontown: Planter area in front of Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin attraction

Disney's California Adventure-

Backlot area near the Monsters Inc., Mike and Sulley  to the Rescue! attraction
World of Color viewing area (during the day when no shows are being  performed)
Seating area at Boardwalk Pizza & Pasta/Paradise Garden Grill
Redwood Creek Challenge Trail (this is great if your kid has some energy to burn!)

5. Companion Restrooms

Companion Restrooms are larger and allow you to assist your child if need be.  Locations are listed on guides and in the app. (I can include conveniently located ones specific to your itinerary).  

6. Attraction Guide

Disney offers a tremendously detailed attraction guide HERE.   This guide lists each attraction and what sort of triggers the ride has.  It is a tremendous resource if your child has specific triggers.  

Tips and Tricks

1. Do Some Extensive Planning!

Anyone going to Disneyland will have a much more successful trip if they take the time to plan.   This is especially true for children on the Autism spectrum.  It can be very confusing and time consuming to do all the research and planning by yourself, so I would always suggest using a Disney expert to help with your vacation.

2. Prepare Your Kids

It's hard for kids to really get an idea of everything they will see in Disneyland.  I like YouTube videos that show entire rides/shows to help them prepare and decide what they would like to do.  Also, prepare them for the process of getting into the parks, scanning tickets, getting onto attractions, and the different transportation options.  I will be happy to help with more specific ideas if you have any concerns.

3. Expect Meltdowns

Disney can be an overwhelming vacation for anyone, so try to be okay with meltdowns.  Reference above for one of the quiet, calm-down places to get away for a little.  Also, schedule some days off or afternoon breaks to try to hedge against overwhelmed, over-tired kids!

4. Bring Everything You May Need

Try to prepare for your specific child's needs.  Bring glow sticks if darkness is an issue.  Bring earplugs if loud sounds are problematic.  Bring a poncho or a change of clothes if your child doesn't like to get wet.  I highly suggest having these items in a backpack, as carrying anything else through the parks can be inconvenient.  

5. Have an Emergency Plan

This is an important tip for anyone going to Disney!  Make sure your family has a meeting place should anyone become separated.  Make sure your child knows how to spot a Cast Member (Employee) so they can ask for assistance.  For younger, nonverbal, or socially impaired children, consider a bracelet or temporary tattoo with your information on it.

6. Consider An Autism Awareness Shirt

If your child is sensitive, it may benefit them to wear something that identifies their condition.  This will help Cast Members and Characters know to take special care when dealing with the child.  This is especially helpful if your child doesn't like stranger interactions or is afraid of characters.

7. Have Realistic Expectations!

Disneyland is fun and memorable and amazing, even if you leave most of it unseen.  You may not be able to see everything, so enjoy what you do get to share together.  Your child is sure to come away with amazing memories, even if the highlight for them was the resort pool or the monorail!

I sincerely hope this helps anyone interested in planning on taking a child with cognitive disabilities.  Thorough planning is especially important, and I would love to help with your next trip!  Contact me via email, or schedule a time to talk if you are ready for your free consultation!