Sometimes I forget that Disney is not just rainbows and Mickey shaped snacks. It is also crowds, loud noises, sensory overload and a lot of standing around waiting for the fun to begin. When you have a child with ADHD or autism, those little in-between moments can be the real challenge.
So we are going in prepared. Snacks packed, fidgets ready and a quiet corner scouting plan in place. Here are the things we are bringing to help keep the magic magical for everyone.
Disney is magical. It is also loud, hot, busy and full of queues. When your child has ADHD or autism those queues can feel like they last a full decade. So we are packing a few things to help everyone keep smiling.
Fidgets are top of the list. Something to squeeze, something to spin and something small enough that it does not get launched across Main Street. Quiet fidgets are best because strangers do not always appreciate enthusiastic popping noises in a queue.
Ear defenders are coming with us because the noise levels can go from zero to fireworks in two seconds. They are a lifesaver for parades, rides and any character who chooses to speak loudly and unexpectedly.
Snacks will be our number one coping strategy. Crunchy snacks for focus. Quick snacks to avoid meltdowns. Emergency snacks for when someone says they are starving even though they have eaten three minutes earlier. It is not hunger. It is a vibe.
A small handheld fan and cooling towel will help stop anyone from overheating and feeling overwhelmed by the Florida sun. Including me. Sweat and sensory overload is a dangerous combination.
Sunglasses and hats are coming too. The bright lights can be a lot and apparently Disney is committed to making everything as sparkly as possible.
We have watched YouTube videos of the parks so the kids know what to expect. They are confident they know every ride now. I am confident they will forget everything the second we arrive but at least the research has been done.
Our break plan is simple. If someone needs space we will find a quiet corner. If someone does not want to go on a ride they do not have to. We can take things at our own pace. Disney will wait for us.
We are bringing what will help us enjoy the fun and handle the chaos. The goal is not perfection. The goal is happy memories and a day where no one cries over the wrong colour ice lolly.
We have got this.
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