Allergy Friendly Menu Trial Run At Select Locations!

World Premiere Food Court at All-Star Movies

Disney has always been known as incredibly friendly to folks with food allergies and restrictions. Guests can personally talk to the chef at individual dining locations I discuss their personal needs and restaurants will often put together meals, designed specifically for these guests. Even at buffets, you might catch a glimpse of a Disney Chef, walking around the buffet with a guest, talking about all of the different foods, as they relate to that guest's needs. 

Going on right now, and lasting until October 20, 2014, Disney is trying something new. Select Disney World eateries have debuted new, allergy friendly menus. While the option to chat with a chef remains, the new menus have been designed to give guests even more options, with even greater ease. The dining locations that are involved in this trial are:

• Flying Fish Café at Disney's BoardWalk
• Multiple location at Hollywood Studios
• ABC Commissary
• Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant
• The Hollywood Brown Derby
• Kona Cafe and Captain Cooks at the Polynesian Resort
• World Premiere Food Court at All-Star Movies Resort

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Details About New Disability Access Service (DAS) at Disney Parks

Disney has released an official statement, regarding the upcoming changes that they will be making to the current Guest Assistance Card (GAC). Beginning October 9, 2013, the GAC program will be ending and the new Disability Access Service (DAS) will take effect. There have been lots of rumors and concerns regarding this new system and how it will affect the Disney Parks experiences of those Guests who may have grown accustomed to the GAC system. Meg Crofton, President of Walt Disney Parks and Operations has released this statement regarding the new system. In addition, Disney has make a DAS Card Fact Sheet available. Here is what they have said:

Disney Parks have an unwavering commitment to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment and accessible experiences for guests.

Disney Parks is modifying the current Guest Assistance Card program, which provides access to attractions for guests with disabilities, so it can continue to serve the guests who truly need it. The new program is designed to provide the special experience guests have come to expect from Disney. It will also help control abuse that was, unfortunately, widespread and growing at an alarming rate.

The new Disability Access Service (DAS) Card will replace the Guest Assistance Card on Oct. 9. Guests at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort can request a Disability Access Service Card at Guest Relations. DAS Cardholders will receive a return time for attractions based on the current wait time.

Disney Parks has long recognized and accommodated guests with varying needs. Guests can visit Guest Relations to discuss their individual situation, and Disney Parks will continue to provide assistance that is responsive to their unique circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is a Disability Access Service Card and how does it work?
  The DAS Card is designed to accommodate guests who aren’t able to wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability (including non-apparent disabilities). A Disability Access Service Card will be issued at Guest Relations main entrance locations and will offer guests a return time for attractions based on the current wait time. As soon as the Guest finishes one attraction, they can receive a return time for another. This service can be used in addition to Disney’s FASTPASS Service andDisney FastPass+ service.
• What will Disney Parks do if a Guest is concerned the DAS Card doesn’t meet their needs?
  Disney Parks have long recognized and accommodated guests with varying needs and will continue to work individually with guests with disabilities to provide assistance that is responsive to their unique circumstances. Guests should visit Guest Relations to discuss their individual needs.
• Who will be eligible for a Disability Access Service Card?
  Disney Parks’ goal is to accommodate guests who aren’t able to wait in a conventional queue environment due to a disability (including non-apparent disabilities). Guests should visit Guest Relations to discuss their assistance needs.
• How will guests get a Disability Access Service Card?A Disability Access Service Card will be issued at Guest Relations main entrance locations. Guests will participate in a registration process, which also includes having their photo taken.
• Why is Disney Parks doing this?
  Disney Parks is modifying the current Guest Assistance Card program so it can continue to serve the guests who truly need it. The new program is designed to provide the special experience guests have come to expect from Disney. Disney Parks also hopes it will help control abuse that was, unfortunately, widespread and growing at an alarming rate.
• Does the DAS Cardholder have to be present to obtain a return time at an attraction?
  No. Another member of the DAS Cardholder’s travel party may obtain a return time but the DAS Cardholder must board the attraction with his or her party.
• Where do DAS Cardholders go to receive return times?At Disneyland Resort, guests will go to Guest Relations kiosks located throughout the parks to receive a return time. At Walt Disney World Resort, guests will go to the attraction to receive a return time.
• Does a DAS Cardholder have to ride the attraction at the exact return time listed?No. Return times are valid until redeemed by the DAS Cardholder.
• How long is a DAS Card valid?A DAS card is valid for up to 14 days depending on a guest’s ticket entitlement.
• Is a DAS Card issued at one Disney theme park valid at other Disney theme parks?
  Yes, the card will be valid throughout the resort at which it was issued.
• Why doesn’t Disney Parks ask for proof of disability, such as a doctor’s note?Disney Parks takes Guests at their word and there are legal restrictions around asking for proof.
• Is this the only service available to Guests with disabilities?Disney Parks offer a variety of services to guests with disabilities, such as Disney’s Handheld Device that offers assistive listening, captioning and audio description. Additionally, Disney Parks has developed a “Guide for Guests with Cognitive Disabilities.” This serves as a tool on how best to experience its theme parks and is expected to be available online by mid-October.
  
  Disney Parks will continue to provide excellent guest service and accessible experiences. Guests should visit Guest Relations at any park should they feel they need assistance due to a disability.
• Does a Guest whose disability is based on the necessity to use a wheelchair or scooter need a DAS Card?
  No, a Guest whose disability is based on the necessity to use a wheelchair or scooter does not need a DAS Card. Depending on the attraction, the Guest will either wait in the standard queue or receive a return time at the attraction based on the current wait time. For some attractions at Disneyland Resort, these guests will go directly to an alternate entrance. Guests with additional needs should discuss them with Guest Relations.
• Will Disney Parks continue to provide a service to wish-granting organizations? 
  The change will not affect those who are visiting on trips organized by wish granting organizations. There is a separate program for children with life-threatening illnesses.

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Hearing Disability Services At The Disney Parks

There are no shortage of options available at the Disney parks to assist Guests with hearing disabilities. These options include:

• Guest Room Amenities

• Assistive Listening
• Handheld Captioning
• Reflective Captioning
• Video Captioning

• Sign Language Interpretation

• Written Aids

• Text Typewriter Telephones

Guest Room Amenities
Any Guest Room at a resort hotel can be equipped with door knock and phone alerts, phone amplifiers, bed shaker notification, a strobe light smoke detector, and a Text Typewriter (TTY) telephone.

Handheld Devices

Disney's Handheld Devices are available at Guest Relations at all 4 theme parks on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests pay a $100 deposit when picking them up, which is completely refundable upon their return.

Assistive Listening
Disney's Assistive Listening technology amplifies sound through headphones or an induction loop at specific theme park attractions. This is recommended for Guests with mild to moderate hearing loss. Check out the different experiences where Assistive Listening is available:
     Walt Disney World Resort
           • Assistive Listening Attractions
           • Assistive Listening Entertainment
     Disneyland Resort
           • Assistive Listening Attractions
           • Assistive Listening Entertainment

Handheld Captioning
This system using a wireless, handheld receiver to display text in location where fixed captioning systems would be impractical, such as on moving attractions. Check out the different experiences where Handheld Captioning is available:
     Walt Disney World Resort
           • Handheld Captioning Attractions
           • Handheld Captioning Entertainment
     Disneyland Resort
           • Handheld Captioning Attractions
           • Handheld Captioning Entertainment

Fixed Systems

Reflective Captioning

This technology is used at select theater-style attractions. The Reflective Captioning projects text onto an acrylic glass panel in front of the Guest. Check out the different experiences where Reflective Captioning is available:
     Walt Disney World Resort

          • Reflective Captioning Attractions
          • Reflective Captioning Entertainment
     Disneyland Resort
          • Reflective Captioning Attractions
          • Reflective Captioning Entertainment

Video Captioning

Monitors displaying captions, often during attraction pre-shows, are designated by a "CC." The monitors can be activated with the Handheld Device mentioned earlier or with a Single Button remote control, which requires only a $25 refundable deposit. Check out the different experiences where Video Captioning is available:
     Walt Disney World Resort

          • Video Captioning Attractions
          • Video Captioning Entertainment
     Disneyland Resort
          • Video Captioning Attractions
          • Video Captioning Entertainment

Other Available Assistance

Sign Language Interpretation

Interpretation via Sign Language is provided to Guests at specific live theme park shows on a rotating basis.

At the World Disney World Resort, the schedule is as follows:
     • Disney's Animal Kingdom: Saturdays
     • Hollywood Studios: Sundays and Wednesdays
     • Magic Kingdom: Mondays and Thursdays
     • Epcot: Tuesdays and Fridays
A specific schedule of events that will be interpreted is available from Guest Relations, by contacting your Travel Agent, or by calling 407-824-4321 (voice), 407-827-5141 (TTY).

At the Disneyland Resort, the schedule is as follows:
     • Disneyland Park: Mondays and Saturdays
     • Disney California Adventure Park: Sundays and Fridays
For more specifics, contact your Travel Agent or call 714-781-INFO (x4636), Option 1, Option 0.

Check out the different experiences where Sign Language Interpretation is available:
     Walt Disney World Resort

          • Sign Language Interpretation Attractions

          • Sign Language Interpretation Entertainment
     Disneyland Resort

          • Sign Language Interpretation Attractions

          • Sign Language Interpretation Entertainment

Sign Language Interpretation can also be requested for events that it is not otherwise planned. Disney asks that these requests be made with at least 14 days advance notice by contacting your Travel Agent, or by calling 407-824-4321 (voice), 407-827-5141 (TTY) for the Walt Disney World Resort or 714-781-INFO (x4636), Option 1, Option 0.

Written Aids

Packets containing dialogue, flashlights, pens, and paper are available  at or near the performance areas or entrances for most shows and attractions. Cast Members have a pad of paper and pens or pencils available to them to use in order to communicate with Guests. Cast Members with abilities in Sign Language can be identified with the appropriate language pin.

Text Typewriter (TTY) Telephones
Pay phones marked with a Text Typewriter (TTY) symbol are equipped with amplified handsets and are available through the Walt Disney World Resort. Specific locations are listed in the "Guide for Guess with Disabilities."

Guide for Guests with Disabilities

The following guides are also available at Guest Relations at each of the theme parks:

• Magic Kingdom
• Epcot
• Disney's Hollywood Studios
• Disney's Animal Kingdom
• Disneyland Park
• Disney California Adventure Park

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Keeping Up Your Child's Sensory Diet At Disney World (proprioceptive system)

A sensory diet can be so important in helping a child to remain regulated throughout his day. For anyone who hasn't quite heard the term, "sensory diet," or had it explained to them, it has nothing to do with the type of food that someone eats, gluten or otherwise. A sensory diet is a plan of how to provide appropriate amounts of stimulation to your child's sensory system throughout the day, keeping him feeling calm, in control, and regulated. This type of plan is something that is much easier done when your kiddo is in school during the day and you maintain your end in the afternoons or on the weekends. Even school breaks can be a little tricky for families trying to maintain a little one's sensory diet, as schedules and routines are different. But how many families manage to, or even try to, maintain a child's sensory diet while on vacation at someplace like Disney World? Believe it or not, it's not as tough as it seems. We've already covered the Vestibular System here - that's the spinning, running, and swinging types of activities. Let's take a little time, now, to talk about some attractions that you can include in your Disney day, that will provide some proprioceptive input - that is the deep pressure, hard-work, jumping and stomping type of activities.

Magic Kingdom

In the Storybook Circus section of New Fantasyland, you'll find the good ol' Dumbo the Flying Elephant. Disney has made some amazing additions to the ride experience, however. As you make your way through the queue area, you will notice that, under the big top, there is a circus themed play area. It's air conditioned and your kiddo can run, stomp, jump, hop, and climb to his heart's content. Plus, while he is getting all of that good sensory input, you will have been handed a pager to hold your place in line for the Dumbo ride. Don't worry if your pager buzzes before your little one is done playing, either. Just let the cast member at the play area entrance know that you'd like more time and he or she will take care of it for you. Also in the new Storybook Circus is a water play area, the Casey Jr. Splash 'N' Soak Station. With a circus train theme, this area is completely child directed and has fun and interactive water features like water-spraying animals and Casey Jr. himself who loves to blow off some refreshing "steam."

Animal Kingdom

One of the best ways for your kiddo to get his stomp on at the Animal Kingdom is at The Boneyard in DinoLand U.S.A. This open-air playground is designed to look like a dinosaur dig site and has tons of opportunities to run, climb, dig, crawl, slide, stomp, and explore. There are interactive exhibits, an archeological dig site where little ones can excavate fossils from a Tyrannosrurus Rex and a Stegosaurus, a giant, multi-level maze, a Jeep for climbing in and on, and so much more. There is so much to see and explore here, your kiddo will thank you for bringing him... well, I don't know if I'd go that far... but he will totally regulate himself and be able to move on with the day feeling amazing - just make sure to leave enough time for all there is to do!

Epcot

Did you know that there is a super-fun interactive play area at the end of the Journey Into Imagination with Figment ride? It's called, ImageWorks - The "What If" Labs and keeps with the exploration and imagination theme of Figment. Does your child like to wave his arms around? If so, this place will be great, because he can wave away while conducting an orchestra, creating music with Figment's Melody Maker. Stomping and jumping is always a good time as your kiddo creates a symphony of sound in the "Stepping Tones" area. This area is self-directed and air-conditioned, so it is a good break for all!

Hollywood Studios

Do you remember the old "Honey, I Shrunk The Kids," movie? Well, your child can live the adventure of being shrunk down to the size of a bug (or smaller) at the, Honey, I Shrunk The Kids Movie Set Adventure. This is an 11,000 square foot play area where your little one can climb enormous anthills and scale sprawling spider webs. With 30 foot tall blades of grass, a 52 foot long leaking hose, giant plant root mazes, and even an enormous sniffling dog nose, this play area is definitely a winner!

These are just some ways to meet your child's needs. You can come up with so many more, especially since nobody knows your little one like you do. The best advice that I have is to be creative and to be prepared. And, of course, to have fun!

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Keeping Up Your Child's Sensory Diet At Disney World (vestibular system)

So you're little one has made great improvements since you introduced a sensory diet into his life, providing appropriate stimulation at regular intervals throughout his day. In fact, that's one of the main reasons why he is able to make it through his day. Now, you're heading to Disney. You've got lots of plans to help make your days super fun. You have lots of strategies to try to avoid meltdowns before they happen. But, have you thought about what is going to happen to those important sensory breaks? What are some ways that you can tackle your child's sensory diet while you're on vacation? Today, we'll talk about some great rides that will stimulate your kiddo's vestibular system. Those are going to be the hanging, swinging, and spinning type of activities.

Magic Kingdom

Both Dumbo the Flying Elephant and The Magic Carpets of Aladdin will get your child spinning around a good bunch, also allowing your child to control how high or low the vehicle "flies." The Astro Orbiter is another similarly styled ride. Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin allows guests to spin around as well, with your child able to control the spin itself. At the same time, this ride is also a shoot-em-up where you, the rider, are trying to help Buzz Lightyear defeat the army of Evil Emperor Zurg. It's essentially a spinning, live-action, video game ride... Perfect! Some other attractions that could go a long way toward stimulating your child's vestibular system include The Mad Tea Party and Prince Charming's Regal Carousel. 

Animal Kingdom

TriceraTop Spin and Primeval Whirl will give your child plenty of spinning action. TriceraTop spin is appropriate for all heights and is quite similar to both Dumbo and Aladdin's Magic Carpets in that you hop aboard a dinosaur and spin around and around and around. Primeval Whirl (for those 48" and up) will give your little one roller coaster-like movement while adding some rotation to the mix at the same time. And if your child likes roller coasters, Expedition Everest (44" height requirement) may just do the trick. Not only does this coaster move you around pretty quickly, but it does plenty of that flinging and flopping while riders are actually going backwards!

Epcot

Test Track (must be at least 40" to ride) will get your kiddo zooming around a race track at pretty decent speeds, wind blowing through his hair. Also, Mission: Space (must be at least 44" to ride) spins riders like a top... a really, really fast top. This one doesn't "feel" like you are spinning, quite the same way as other rides. During the length of the attraction, riders actually watch a space shuttle lift off and travel through space from the cockpit point of view. To simulate the g-forces and weightlessness involved in space travel, however, the cabin that the guests are in spins does actually spin incredibly quickly. Personally, while I don't typically feel the spinning sensation when I'm on the ride, I totally feel like I was spun and spun good when I get off of it! Soarin' (also for guests at least 40" tall) work in an opposite manner. It lifts riders up off the ground and rocks them around, just a little bit... but it feels like a lot more as riders watch a movie on a giant IMAX-like screen, that makes guests feel like they are flying high on a hang glider.

 Hollywood Studios

It may not spin riders around and around, but it sure does drop them up and down. Make sure to check out The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror with your child (must be 40" to ride). The attraction lifts guests way up high and then drops them down, lifts them up again, and then drops them again. It's kind of like when we toss our children up and down in the air... but on a spooky elevator in The Twilight Zone. Star Tours: The Adventure Continues is another attraction that will keep your little one (at least 40" tall) bouncing and bumping around. Guests board a space cruiser out of the Star Wars Universe and get bumped and jostled while watching a 3-D video on the the screen in front of them.

One More (Great) Tip

FastPass+ is going to be a big help here. This Walt Disney World sevice allows guests to make appointments for their favorite rides via smartphone or in-park kiosk. Using this new technology, you can actually set your "sensory break attractions" at the appropriate interval apart from one another and not have to worry about long lines when it comes time to ride. Want to know more? Check out this Beginner's Guide to FastPass+!

NEXT WEEK we tackle Proprioception at Disney World!

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Why You Need a Disney Times Guide

I can't tell you how often I get stopped in Disney parks by parents who are desperately trying to find that special character for their child to meet. "This is our last day," they'll mourn. "And he really had his heart set on meeting Naveen, but we can't find him anywhere." Then, I get to tell them that they can meet Naveen alongside Tianna, under the gazebo at the edge of Liberty Square in the Magic Kingdom. They have to make sure to go after 5pm, though, because otherwise Naveen won't have gotten there yet.

Now, while I do like to think of myself as somewhat of a Disney expert, that particular advice is nothing special. In fact, everyone has access to that info. at any time they'd like. That, as well as the times of every parade and every show going on at Disney. All of that information is listed on the Times Guide for each park. The times guide is different than the park map, so be sure to get both. You will find them right outside and right inside the front gates at every park. Also, many many of the Cast Members will have them on hand to pass over to you, should you have any questions at all. You can also get them at your resort hotel. And that location, in particular, might be of the most help to families whose children do best with a plan for what is coming up next, especially someplace as new and potentially overwhelming as Disney. That's because the Times Guide lists every scheduled show, parade, and character meet and greet going on that day. It gives you the opportunity to plan out your day in whatever way works best for your family, making sure you don't miss any of the magic that you want to enjoy without any stress, fuss, or running from one end of the park to another when you hear the sounds of a parade starting. If your kiddo benefits from a visual schedule, the Times Guide lets you get as specific with the pictures as you want, including, rides, shows, and characters in the order that they are actually going to happen. Even if you aren't planning on getting super specific with it, knowing exactly what is going on, when, and where will help you plan out even your meals times for the day.

Just another opportunity to make your vacation even more magical!

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Special Dietary Requests Made Easy At Disney

The wonderful folks at Disney do everything they can to make each guest's visit the absolute best ever. And, let's face it, food is a big part of what we do throughout the day. So if you're family eats something other than what might be the main stream fare at other theme parks, should you plan on packing suitcases of your own food to bring to Disney? Can they possible accommodate your specific needs? The answer is almost always, a resounding, "YES!" (although you can certainly bring food into the parks with you, should you choose)

As is the case with any and all ways that your family would like to personalize your vacation, let either your travel agent or Disney know what you are wishing for as soon as possible. This way everyone can plan for it, every step along the way. When it comes to food, your travel agent will make sure to make a special notation on your reservation when they help you book your dining. Upon arrival at the restaurant, you should double check with your server to make sure that he or she has been notified of your requests. If you are eating at one of Disney's outstanding buffets, not to worry - a Chef will actually walk you around the buffet and let you know which foods are just right for your family, based on your allergies or dietary needs.

At the astounding Victoria & Alberts (named one of "America's Most Iconic Restaurants"), located  at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa at the Walt Disney World Resort, the Chefs will actually customize a menu just for you. Just let your travel agent know your needs or call (407) WDW-DVNA. 

At Disneyland Park, Kosher meals are available with no advance notice at all at the Plaza Inn, Tomorrowland Terrace, and Rancho del Zocalo. At Disney California Adventure Park, Kosher meals are available with no advance notice at Taste Pilots' Grill. Ask your travel agent for info. about Kosher dining at other locations, including Walt Disney World Resort or call (407) WDW-DINE (for Walt Disney World) or (714) 781-DINE (for Disneyland) at least 24 hrs. in advance of your meal.

When it comes to Quick Service dining, there are just as many wonderful choices. Go ahead and stop by Guest Relations when you arrive at the park for the day and they can tell you which locations will work best for you. You can always find Guest Relations both just outside and just inside the front gates of the park.

While it's always great to be prepared, the following food allergies do not require advance notice at all:

• Gluten or wheat
• Lactose or dairy
• Peanuts and tree nuts
• Shellfish
• Soy
• Fish
• Eggs
• Corn

Disney is also ready and waiting with no-sugar added, low-fat, low-sodium and vegetarian options.

If you don't see what you are looking for up there in that list, not to worry. Disney can also accommodate:

• Allergy or intolerance not listed above
• Phenylketonuria (PKU)
• Metabolic disorders
• A single guest with multiple allergies/intolerances
• Multiple guests with alleges/intolerances within the same party

For anything on that second list, Disney asks that you let you either let your travel agent know or e-mail them directly at Special.Diets@DisneyWorld.com (for the Walt Disney World Resort) or DLRspecialdiets@email.disney.com (for the Disneyland Resort) at least 14 days prior to arrival and after booking all dining arrangements for your visit.

Bon Appetit!

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Disney's Rider Switch Service And It's Amazing Benefits

No one has to miss out on any of the fun at Disney Parks, thanks to the Rider Switch service! The service was designed with families with young children, not tall enough to ride some of the attractions, in mind. For example, let's say that both my wife and I want to enjoy Space Mountain with my son, by my daughter is still too young to ride. We all head up to the Greeter (the Cast Member positioned at the ride entrance) together and let him know that we would like to use a Rider Switch. The Greeter will send my wife and my son on their way to the ride while issuing me a Rider Switch pass. I hang back with my daughter and, when the others come off of the ride, my wife and I can literally switch places. She can come and stay with my daughter and I can head onto Space Mountain with my son, without waiting in line again. Typically, the Rider Switch lines are the same as the Fastpass lines, so we can potentially skip quite a long wait using this service as opposed to just getting in line again.

That example kind of leaves my daughter out of the mix, though. It leaves her as just waiting for the rest of us to finish having fun before we can move on, Rider Switch or not. Well, get this: you don't have to use the Rider Switch pass immediately when the first group comes off of the ride. It is valid for any time at all during the day that you receive it. That opens up a world of possibilities for my daughter who no longer has to just sit around and wait. Here's an example from a potential trip to Disney's Animal Kingdom. Say my son, my wife, and I love Expedition Everest, the fast-pased roller coaster thrill ride where you come face to face with a Yeti. But, again, my daughter does not meet the height requirement. We all head over to Everest and request a Rider Switch pass from the Greeter. Now, my son and I run off to get on line for the roller coaster while my wife and my daughter don't wait around for us but, rather, head off to another attraction that they can enjoy together. In my daughter's case, it would be TriceraTop Spin, in a completely different area of the park all together. Maybe they keep riding that ride until my wife is ready to pass out or maybe they move onto someone else afterwards. But when my son and I get off of Expedition Everest, I'm able to give my wife a call or send her a text to find out where she is and then meet right up again, completely seemlessly. And now we know that she and my son can use the Rider Switch pass to get right back on Everest later in the day, without having to worry about the length of the line because, they will just be allowed to skip it.

Much like the Disney FastPass service, the Rider Switch service can be a lifesaver for a child who could really use more stability, routine, and schedule than an unplanned day at a theme park can offer. It's just one more way to help make a day more smooth and predictable, so use it to your advantage. Know what is available for the non-riders at what times of the day so that you can effectively plan out what time the riders will be waiting on line (and what they might be missing while doing so), so that everyone can get the absolute most out of their day without causing any stress. And, by the way, you can get a Rider Switch ticket when returning for your Fastpass reservation time, thereby making wait times for your family even shorter!

courtesy of easywdw.com

It is important to mention that there does need to be a reason that someone cannot ride the attraction in order to qualify for a Rider Switch pass. Simply being scared does not qualify, unfortunately, and rides that do not have height or health requirements do not typically have the Rider Switch service available. However, if you fall into the category of people who would strongly benefit (and not just in a convenience way) from this service, but you are afraid that you don't fit the criteria, just talk to the Greeter. They will often have great advice for you. An even better idea would be to be even more proactive and talk to Guest Relations upon arrival to the park. You can find them both inside and outside the front gates of every park. They can help you to figure out the best way to tailor all of the available services that Disney offers to best accommodate your family's needs. They can also issue you a Guest Assistance Card, which may be what is just right for you and yours. The best rule of thumb for Disney is simply, if you need something, just ask. They'll make it happen for you with a smile!

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Managing ADHD At Walt Disney World

Having a little one with ADHD can be tough enough during a trip to the grocery store! Bringing your kiddo to Disney may be a cause of incredible apprehension for parents. It doesn't have to be, though. There are definitely lots of things that you can think about and prepare both before your trip, at the start of each day, and things that you can do throughout your day to help everyone to enjoy all of the magic that there is to be had.

Believe it or not, the crowds are significantly smaller during off-peak season. Traveling mid-September, for example, can mean that you only wait for 15-30 minutes for a ride on Splash Mountain, as opposed to 70+ minutes. The quietest time at the parks is typically from early-January to mid-February and from mid-August to late-September. If those dates just aren't in the cards for you, try to think of some things to bring along that will keep your little one occupied while you wait on lines - a DS, an iPod, etc. You know all of those times that you say, "He can spend hours on that thing without even stopping to go to the bathroom?" Now's the time to cash in on that skill! Another great asset might be a book of Hidden Mickeys. Hidden Mickeys are Mickey Mouse-shaped heads or silhouettes hidden, almost in plain sight, around the Disney property, both on and off rides. Your kiddo might love to study a book that reveals where these hidden Mickeys are located so that he is prepared to search for them on the ride for which he is waiting or throughout his day.

That walk from one place to another in between rides or shows can also be a tricky, tiring, and very overwhelming part of the day, as well. Here are some thoughts:

• A search for Hidden Mickeys can work quite well here, too.

• Pin Trading can also keep your child occupied as you make your way around the park. Pin Trading is a pin collection, worn on a lanyard, that you start by purchasing a Starter Set. You can then trade any pin that you have with any Disney Cast Member - they all wear them. Your child can definitely spend time searching for that perfect pin throughout the day.

• The Socerers of the Magic Kingdom game can go a long way toward keeping your child's mind focused on something during the day. This game begins at the Main Street Firehouse, where your child will get a pack of cards and a map. Your kiddo will team up with Merlin, using the cards to open magic portals all around the park, casting spells and defeating Disney Villains. It is definitely a great way to keep things interesting as you walk from one spot to the next.

• Providing your little one with a map and a Times Guide can be quite helpful, as well. Ask your kiddo to let you what area you are coming up to in the park and what shows, characters, etc. are available during the time period that you will be there.

Maybe you think that a break in your day, from all of the running and moving from place to place would be best. There are lots of options that fit this category, as well:

• Of course, there's the, "head back to the hotel to relax, swim, eat, etc." plan. That's definitely relaxing, provides a great chance to actually use the really fun swimming pools that are at your hotel, and there are also Disney movies played poolside several evenings each week.

• Some quieter attractions in the parks might provide a little break. Consider the Hall of Presidents at the Magic Kingdom or even taking a ride on the Walt Disney World Railroad. At Epcot, maybe the Living With The Land boat ride or Ellen's Energy Adventure will do the trick. Also at Epcot is The Seas with Nemo & Friends. This is a short, calm ride that lets out into a small aquarium, SeaBase, where you can definitely spend some quieter time. There's even a small, toddler sized playground in there.

• If play areas, where you can spend as much time as your kiddo would like, sound good to you, there are a bunch of options. At the Magic Kingdom, you can play at the Casey Jr. Splash 'N' Soak Station or the air-conditioned Dumbo Play Area. Tom Sawyer Island might be worth checking out, as it's a go-at-your-own pace pirate exploration adventure. At Hollywood Studios, little ones can crawl and climb around the Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure. In Animal Kingdom, The Boneyard provides a fun playground-type experience. Also, there is a small, low-key petting zoo over at Rafiki's Planet Watch.

If your kiddo take medication, the dosing and frequency that it is administered is something to consider speaking with your child's doctor about. Often, children are given one dose a day, in the morning. This helps them throughout their school day. It might be worth considering two, smaller doses for your Disney trip, as the day is longer and paced differently than a typical school day. Again, make sure to speak to your child's physician to discuss all of the implications that this might entail.

Walt Disney World is such an amazing place for a family to choose to vacation and the Cast Members who work there always do their absolute best to make the experience magical for every single guest who walks through the gates. Always feel free to speak with your travel agent or the good folks at Disney with specific questions - they are there to help.

Have a magical time!

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Using Disney Fastpass To Bring A Sense Of Stability, Calm, And Routine To Your Disney Day

Careful and considered use of Fastpass is definitely something that I would recommend to all people traveling to Disney, especially those with young children or kiddos with special needs. Now, I am not someone who is big into change and, so, when Fastpass debuted in 1999, I was a bit skeptical. In fact, when my wife and I honeymooned in Walt Disney World in 2003, we did not use a single Fastpass. Now that I have kids, though, it's another story all together.

Fastpass, for those who aren't quite sure, is a way of making a reservation for a ride time. It is most often used when the regular (stand-by) line is getting longer than someone might want to wait on. You can head over to the Fastpass machines, usually located next to the ride entrance, insert your park ticket, and receive a slip of paper with a time window of when you can come back and bypass the stand-by line, waiting only in a line with the other guests who share your Fastpass reservation time. There are a limited number of Fastpass reservations available for any given time window for a ride.

Now, bear in mind that just the existence of Fastpass is not what is going to make your life easier; it's the incorporating it's use into your plans for the day. As you head to the park that day, think about the needs of your family - the different attractions that each family member wants to experience and the different needs that each family member has. Here are some ways that my own family  has used the Fastpass system. Use them to spark some thoughts and ideas about how this system can benefit your own family.

The Toy Story Midway Mania! ride is a very popular one at Disney's Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort. In fact, I have seen people sprint from the front gates, as the park opens, across the grounds to get to that ride first, because the line can get so long. I have even seen people sprint to the Midway Mania! Fastpass kiosks, the wait has been so notorious in the past. I also know that, as Hollywood Studios opens, there are Disney characters waiting to meet people, take pictures, and sign autographs right in front of the Sorcerer's Hat in the middle of the park. So, when my family entered the park the last time we visited, my wife and kids headed straight for the Meet 'n' Greets while I broke off to the right and picked up Fastpasses for the Toy Story ride (I did need each family member's ticket so that we could each get a Fastpass). There was no crazy running, no pushing past people, and no frustration. I rejoined my family just a few minutes later. The kids were having a fantastic time - getting to meet Donald and Daisy, Pooh and Tigger, etc and I had Fastpasses in hand for later that day. Granted, I didn't run to the Fastpass kiosks, so mine were already scheduled for 2:30pm, but that was okay. Now we were able to make a plan. We decided that we would eat lunch at around 1:30, and then head over to the Toy Story ride. With our lunch time planned, we were able to loosely plan out our morning as well as the early afternoon. We knew when to make sure the kids had snacks and/or drinks to keep them feeling good and happy, as opposed to letting people get tired, hungry, or frustrated before trying to figure out what our next move would be. Think about how much that would have helped, also, if I was using a visual schedule or a first-then chart with one of my children. Simply amazing! It was quick, easy, and efficient and that one Fastpass made a huge difference in our day. Plus, it's totally fun to walk right past a 90 minute-long line to join up with the 20 minute Fastpass line. Hey, it's not like we didn't wait the 90 minutes ourselves. In fact, we waited longer. I got the tickets at 9am and we ended up coming back at 3pm. That's a 6-hour wait! It's just that while we waited, we met characters, went on rides, saw shows, and ate a meal and a snack.

UPDATE: Disney has debuted their new FastPass+ system, which is replacing the old FASTPASS system, slowly but surely. Want to know more? Check out this Beginner's Guide to FastPass+!

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Disney Guest Assistance Card or Getting Your Individualized Needs Met By Every Disney Cast Member Like Magic

UPDATE: The GAC has been replaced but the new Disability Access Service (DAS).

Not all special needs find children in a wheelchair. That seems obvious but, if you notice, those are pretty much the special needs that are accommodated out in the world. At theme parks, there are special wheelchair accessible entrances and systems put into place to allow guests in a wheelchair access to rides themselves. All of this is great! It really is. But what about people with other things going on? That is why Disney offers the Guest Assistance Card (GAC) at their theme parks. They recognize that their guests have a wide variety of needs and they are committed to assisting each one as individually and personally as possible.

image courtesy of SpectrumOfBlessings.com

The way is works is as follows: Upon arrival to your first Disney park on your vacation, head over to Guest Relations (you can find them both right inside and outside the park gates). When you let them know that you would like a Guest Assistance Card, you will have to opportunity to truly discuss your concerns and potential needs. The Disney Cast Members know the parks and attractions best and they can offer the best solutions and advice possible. They will issue you a Guest Assistance Card and, on the back of it, they will place a stamp that will alert the other Cast Members throughout your visit of your needs, so that you can be given the specific assitance that you need without having to rehash your life's story to everyone you meet, all day, every day. As a guest, you may be given access to a more quiet or a shaded area to wait for a ride, you may be escorted to an elevator or alternate entrance to an attraction that does not require the use of stairs, you may be granted the ability to use a stroller as a "wheelchair," allowing you to bring it on line with you (strollers are typically required to be parked before getting on line for an attraction). Guest Assistance Cards can also be used to help with hearing or vision problem, alerting Cast Members to show guests the most optimal seating during a show or performance to best meet their needs.

The important thing is, when you are talking to the folks at Guest Relations, remember to be as specific as possible about your family's needs so that the Disney Cast Members can help you to come up with the best solution possible. A doctor's note is not required to receive a Guest Assistance Card but, if it's possible to get one, it certainly can't hurt.

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