Proper Prep Time
This past week we went to Disney World in Orlando, FL. Controversy has filled the pages of blogs, specifically within the Autism Community Blogosphere, in regards to the change from the Guest Assistance Card (GAC) to the Disability Access Service (DAS). Prior to our trip I researched, I called Guest Relations, I read every blog and formulated our plan of action to ensure that we had the best trip we could, as a family and one that would cater to C's needs.Prior to our trip I had our doctor help me to fill out the application for a Handicap Pass for our car. While C is not in a wheelchair, he does have a permanent disability. One that inhibits him from safely walking long distances through parking lots. I know you have all experienced the sudden drop, where your child becomes spaghetti, and try as you might, it seems their body has become one with the pavement. This occurring while navigating a busy parking lot had me envisioning a trip to an unfamiliar Emergency Room, rather than the Magical Kingdom. Our Pediatrician had no problem filling out his portion of the application, once I explained my reasoning.
We also chose to drive, rather than fly. While it may seem like we were voluntarily torturing ourselves with a 14 hour car drive, we knew that it wouldn't be fair to C, our family, or every other person sharing a flight with us, to fly. When we calculated the additional time it would take to park in long term parking, load everything on the shuttle, make it through security, allow us extra time for potential C meltdowns, flight time, getting off the plane, baggage claim, car rental, and reloading the car... we would have saved half the time, but because we drove, we saved ourselves the stress and over 1/2 the cost of airfare. Driving works for us.
If you are considering flying and have a child with Autism, consider Jet Blue. They have launched a program for children called "Blue Horizons for Autism", and have made accommodations to ensure a comfortable and pleasurable flight for children on the spectrum and the other passengers.
Because we have older children, and because C loves Disney Jr. and Nick Jr. cartoons equally, we chose to stay at the Nickelodeon Suites Resort. While the pools were amazing, we found the rest of the amenities including our room, run down, overpriced, and lacking the same "magic" we have come to expect from Disney properties. While we were a bit disappointed in the resort, I have to say that the staff was knowledgeable and accommodating, and helped to make up for what the resort itself had to offer. Were anyone to ask me if they should stay at the Nick Resort, unfortunately I would advise to put the extra money into a Disney property. We did participate in some of the evening activities, like Story Time with Dora, and C loved meeting Dora and Boots, and enjoyed the interactive story and songs.
We had a 3 day pass to the Disney Parks. We chose to drive, rather than rely on the Nickelodeon Transportation buses, to allow ourselves the leisure of coming and going on our schedule, rather than the preset bus schedule. Because we had the handicap pass, we were able to park right next to the gates, and only had short distances to walk. Luckily, our stroller is rated for children up to 80 lbs, and C is still within the weight range. I don't think he is ready for a full day of walking on his own. We toyed with the idea of buying the child leash, but there is just something that bugs us about tying our child up like an animal. That is another topic, and our personal preference. We are still on the fence about our feelings, some days we agree that leashes are a great idea for a child that has a tendency to bolt, and others we feel that it just points more attention to C's difference, and could leave him feeling as if he is being restrained rather than protected.
Once in the park we visited the Guest Relations office. There we were able to obtain a pass that allowed us to use our stroller as a wheelchair. This is an AMAZING benefit for those who have children still in strollers. It allowed us to wheel our stroller right through the lines, allowing C to have a place of comfort in an otherwise incredibly stimulating environment. An added perk, all of our belongings stayed with us, rather than outside of the attraction, luring other guests to check out our goods.
By doing the research ahead of time, knowing what to expect, and having a plan for C that worked for him, but allowed the other children to truly experience Disney as a typical child, made for an unforgettable vacation. Seeing C meet his favorite characters, and truly live in the moment, is a memory I will cherish for life. Knowing that my two older children did not have to sacrifice their vacation to cater to their brother's needs validated our want to continue vacationing with Disney. We are excited to plan our next trip and are even considering the Disney Cruise.
More to come on our wonderful vacation! There is just far too much information to share for one post. Stay tuned for more information on the new DAS, other tips and tricks for ensuring the best vacation for the whole family, and even a few pictures of our favorite moments.
