Autism Awareness Day!

We're grateful that today is a day designated for Autism Awareness, although we feel that autism should be celebrated year-round. Those who struggle with Autism Spectrum Disorder wrestle with social interaction, sensory processing, and communication. Currently, there are over four million autistic individuals around the world.

Today also kicks off a month-long celebration and awareness campaign to bring more insight and appreciation to autism and those who have it. We seek equal treatment, more inclusive services, and a more individualized approach to every person on the spectrum. Our efforts should not stop until everyone can get the care and understanding they need.

We’d like to contribute by helping you plan an Orlando vacation. As a Certified Autism Center, we believe that everyone is valuable and deserves the best vacation possible. In fact, we have specific vacation homes near Disney World which are autism friendly check them out on our Autism Friendly Vacation Homes page

If you’re planning on visiting any of Orlando theme parks the majority have a wealth of options available to assist families with autistic children.

Advance tickets

Advance ticket sales so you can avoid waiting in line among the crowds, a feature that Universal, Busch Gardens, and many other theme parks, zoos, and aquariums have as well. Most of these can be done online, or even over the phone. Reach out to us if you need tickets for any of the wonderful places to have some family fun time while you’re in Orlando.

Stroller & Wheelchair Rental

Secondly, the larger theme parks have a stroller and wheelchair rental for an additional fee. This can be really helpful if you’re already carrying bags, drinks, snacks, changes of clothes, and more. There are lockers available for rent at Disney and Universal. In case you need somewhere to keep your items during the day so that you can focus on your family.

Package Drop-Off

Worried about purchases while in the parks? Disney can package drop-off to the resorts. Both Universal and Disney offer package pick-up in front of the park. So you can shop all day, and have your purchases sent to the front of the park, free of charge.

Break Areas

Another convenience of most parks has break areas. These are specially designed quiet areas where any of our visitors, whether they have a cognitive disability, are feeling over-stimulated, can go to take a break. You only need to ask.

Companion Restrooms

There are several companion restrooms that are larger than normal restrooms, where guests who may need assistance can bring someone with them.

Additional Resources

Below are resources for each park to help you feel more comfortable when visiting, and make your vacation the best that it can be.

• Walt Disney World: Guides for guests with cognitive disabilities (This has trip planning helps transportation tips, FAQs, and more.)
• Universal’s Volcano Bay: Ride guides for guests with cognitive disabilities
• Islands of Adventure: Ride guides for guests with cognitive disabilities
• Universal Orlando: For guests with other needs
• Busch Gardens Tampa Bay: For guests with other needs

 

As a Certified Autism Center, it’s our job to help you plan the perfect Orlando vacation. So if you need additional help or resources please don’t hesitate to call and ask us how we can help you plan the dream vacation you’ve hoped for. We’re here for you.