From Dream Maker – Traci Elswick:  Is it possible to have a magical Walt Disney World® vacation with an autistic child? With a lot of planning, and a bit of pixie dust thrown in by our Dream Makers, it is. I have planned eight magical vacations to the Walt Disney World® Resort for my 13-year-old autistic son. I have seen vast improvements with my son while at the Walt Disney World® Resort. His language skills seem to improve. He copes well with the large crowds and loud noises, and he actually “lives in the moment.” In fact, I’m certain that our yearly pilgrimage to the Walt Disney World® Resort is something my son looks forward to every year.

First you need to consider where you want to stay onsite or off. If your budget allows, I suggest you stay onsite, preferably at one of the Disney resorts that are on the Monorail line or one of Disney’s Boardwalk resorts. The Monorail resorts give you easy access to the Magic Kingdom® Park and EPCOT®. The resorts along Disney’s Boardwalk give you boat access to EPCOT® and Disney Hollywood Studios™. If your child has trouble waiting in long lines or traveling on crowded buses, the Monorail or Disney’s Boardwalk resorts will make traveling between parks much easier for you. If you are looking for value, try to stay at the Disney’s Pop Century Resort. This resort is separate from the other value resorts and has its own bus line. Also, request a room close to the bus stop. If possible, try to avoid Disney’s All-Star Resorts. They share a common bus routes, have long wait times, and are often overcrowded.

Before you depart for your Walt Disney World® Resort vacation, obtain a signed note from your child’s pediatrician or psychiatrist stating your child’s disability and further stating that your child cannot wait in lines. When you arrive at the park, go directly to Guest Services in order to obtain your Guest Assistance Card. A Guest Assistance Card can be used for your entire party, and will dramatically shorten your party’s wait in lines.

How long should you spend in the parks every day? Nobody knows your child better than you. I suggest that all families who stay in a Walt Disney World® Resort Hotel take an afternoon break. That way your child can take a nap or a swim and you can have a relaxing family dinner. You can book your dining up to 180 days before your trip, and it is advisable to book your dining early because many of most popular restaurants fill up quickly. After dinner, you can do Extra Magic Hours. Extra Magic Hours are available for individuals who stay at a Walt Disney World® Resort Hotel and generally allow you to remain in the park for a number of hours after the park closes to the general public.

So what are you waiting for? You’ve waited so long to experience the magic of a Walt Disney World® Resort vacation with your child!