The first time we took my kids, they were 4 and 2 and we surprised them. It was actually really nice. It was in December and when they got home from school there was a letter from their elves telling them they would meet them in Disney World. We all put on our ears and told them to get in the car because we were going to the airport. Dean was only 2 and half so he didn’t really get it. But Avery was so happy she started happy crying. It was the exact reaction every parent hopes for!
But when we arrived, her anxiety kicked in. She was very nervous and overwhelmed. A lot of time she asked to go back to the resort to relax in the room. Not even to swim, just back to the room. That led to me getting upset. I felt like she didn’t appreciate it and I got upset (in my defense I was just recovering from a stomach bug so I wasn’t my best self either).
Dean was actually in a very challenging time of his life and was biting and having meltdowns. I was nervous Disney World was just not a place for us.
Don’t get me wrong. We had a wonderful vacation and have obvisously gone back several times since. We have some beautiful memories from this trip but also, I learned sooooo much! I want to share this other families.
Please keep in my mind- these are tips that work for my kids. We know all nuerodiverse children are different so these tips may not be helpful for you, but hopefully provide inspiration. I do work closely with my clients to offer suggestions that would meet their needs. Want to book a trip? Click here.
Involve Your Kiddo in Planning
One of the most best ways to make your nuerodiverse kiddo comfortable with the idea of the trip is to involve them in planning. Show them pictures of the resort and parks you will be visiting. Watch ride point of view videos together, so they know what to expect. You can also watch videos of other kids interacting with characters. This will help them understand the experience better and reduce the anxiety of the unknown. Look at the menus of the restaurants, see what food items they might want to try, or look for comfort items that they usually prefer. This not only builds excitement, but helps your kiddo prepare for sensory overload and anxiety in a new place.
Get Their Opinions
Now that you have you done some research together, it’s time to get their opinions. Ask what they really want to do or see. Which ride excited them the most? Which character do they want to meet? These questions not only build excitement but also help in managing their expectations. Make a list of about 5 must do’s each day and concentrate on doing those.
Manage Their Expectations
If your kiddo is asking to meet a rare character or go on a ride that is closed during your trip, make sure to address it beforehand. If there are a lot of rides they want to go on, ask for a few priorities in each park. If you have been before, tell them what has changed and explain what is new. This way, they know what to expect and are not met with unpleasant surprises. Take a look at ride closures to ensure your ride isn’t down for a repair when you are traveling.
Manage Your Expectations
While Disney World is magical, it’s also important to manage your own expectations. Meltdowns will happen. When kids get cranky, break out the snacks. Or maybe it’s time for a break at the pool or a nap. Remember, forcing happiness won’t work, but preparing for these instances will make the trip smoother.
Countdown to the Trip
Children, especially those with ASD, often feel anxious about the unknown. Having a countdown calendar or an app that helps you countdown your days until vacation can alleviate this anxiety. Knowing when you are leaving can also prevent a million questions about when you are leaving.
Discuss the Journey
If you have a long car ride or it’s your child’s first time on a plane, make sure to discuss that in advance. Ask them what they would like to bring with them to keep them entertained. Help them pick movies to watch, songs to listen to, snacks to eat, and games to play. This not only keeps them occupied during the journey but also gives them something to look forward to.
Airports and plane rides can be overwhelming so I made this social story/activity book to help ease any anxieties.
Let Me Help You
If planning seems overwhelming, remember that you are not alone. I understand the unique challenges of visiting Disney World with children diagnosed with anxiety, ADHD, ASD, and SPD. I would love to help you plan your trip and make it a memorable one for your entire family. Click here to get started!