We’re planning our first trip with our children and grandchildren. Our grandson will be 7 at the time of our trip and has autism. We’re excited but also somewhat overwhelmed with the unknown. He’s non-verbal, doesn’t communicate at all, not potty trained, and can quickly get away. He loves Mickey Mouse clubhouse and Toodles. We can’t wait to see how he responds to Mickey.
Are there resorts or restaurants that would be better choices? We thought a resort with an interior hall would be a better option than doors that open to the outside. We are thinking of renting a stroller for him. Are there travel agents that specialize in special needs? Do we need one?
Thank you so much for any lessons learned, tips and tricks. Our trip is over 2 years away and I’m sure much will change between now and then.
I just wanted to address the bolded. He does communicate. All the time. His behavior is his communication. Running away is communication. This is just something that nags at me as a parent to autistic kids who are now teenagers. All people with autism find a way to communicate, you just have to look for it. Hope this helps you be a better grandparent to your grandson.
Anyway, my #1 recommendation is to use the Disability Access Service. It is an amazing tool that can allow your visit to be more enjoyable.
Watch LOTS AND LOTS of Disney World videos on You Tube. Watch plane travel videos if there will be a plane ride involved. Watch videos of whatever resort you choose, and any restaurants you make ADRs for. Watch videos of the different transportation modes at WDW. Google images and You Tube are your friends here. You can use these images to make a social story slide show with embedded videos. My kids used to love this kind of planning tool. They would watch them over and over and then felt more comfortable when it was time to go.
As much as possible, give him visuals so he will know what to expect. Autistic people generally DO NOT like surprises or uncertainty. Prepare him for the weather and discuss what you will do if it rains, or there is thunder and lightning. Prepare him for waiting. Prepare him for rides potentially breaking down and discuss what you can so do instead.
Bring ear defenders. WDW is a loud place. Bring a stroller. It can be specially tagged at Guest Relations to be designated as a wheelchair so it can be used in lines.
Assign someone to be ON him at all times and communicate effectively so the adults always know who is specifically watching him at all times. Don't let yourself get distracted and assume someone else is watching him. This will be a team effort among the adults. This is especially important since he tends to elope.
Finally, follow his lead as much as is practical. Do not push him beyond his limits and if he is showing signs that he is DONE, honor that and go back to the resort.
I recommend a resort with the indoor hallways simply because they are more peaceful overall and feel more removed from other people generally. You will want to pick a GOOD resort that you will all be happy to spend a LOT of time at, because your grandson may end up only tolerating a few hours in the parks per day. Make sure the resort has a lot going for it for the adults to have some fun too. A great pool is a must. I recommend the Beach Club/Yacht Club complex. If you want a Magic Kingdom resort, Contemporary is a fantastic option, or Wilderness Lodge.