Autism & Disney: Guide to Disability Access Service (DAS) at Disney World

With spring vacations around the corner, we couldn’t help but analyze our holiday options. It is well known that Disney has been the children’s favorite spot since its opening in the ’50s. However, for parents on the spectrum, it was difficult to visit the famous park due to long lines, and overall ASD challenges.

Fortunately, Disney realized that autistic children deserved better, and created a special DAS pass that ensures that fun is inclusive for all children.

Today, we will analyze the DAS pass, as well as additional tips to make the most out of it!

Disability Access Service Overview 

The DAS pass is available in all Disney locations. To be acquired you just need to contact Guest Relations at any park and their professionals will provide you with it. The pass is not the same for all children, and this is not because it is based on diagnosis, but rather on the particular needs of a child. 

In order to be given to parents, the child needs to be present during the request, because their picture will be taken for the Disney Experience Account. This account will also give you access to the Fast Pass and the dinner reservations. This process is only required once and is valid 14 days across parks and 60 days for annual pass holders.

The staff member will determine also the return time for the attraction you will like to visit. If an attraction is crowded and has a waiting line of 60 minutes (for example) they will give you a return pass for 30 minutes, and you can use that time to get a snack or simply visit another attraction.

DAS Frequent Asked Questions 

Who can benefit from the DAS pass?

Anyone with a disability or condition that stops them from waiting in the rides’ lines. This includes disabilities that are both seen and unseen. So whether your son has autism, or your husband had recent knee surgery, DAS is for you.

What do I need to request it? 

Nothing, just bring your loved one that needs the DAS pass to the Guest Relations department in the park and you are good to go. 

Is DAS better than the old system of just coming to the front of the line?

Yes, DAS pass is better because with it you can make use of the time between lines. So even if you are in front of the line, many times you have to wait for up to 15 minutes (depending on the attraction), however, with the DAS pass you only need to show up at the given time.

Can I use the DAS pass for character’s meets and greets or firework special sits?

Absolutely, with the condition that the character offers the Fast Pass + option (available for users of the regular Fast Pass Ticket) which most characters do.

Additional Tips To Make The Most Out Of DAS

To ensure that you enjoy your Disney holiday the most we highly encourage you to follow our advices based on ASD mom recommendations:

• Get your DAS pass as soon as you arrive to the park.
• Identify the rides or attractions with the longest wait lines and request your spot.
• Use the time in between to visit rides with lower lines.
• Be prepared with a fully charged Ipad and snacks. There can be a small wait line of 5-10 minutes.
• If you are traveling with your family, organize yourselves to have somebody requesting the Dass pass on the rides and somebody else watching the kid on another spot. Having your child squeezed into the lines to request the pass can be overwhelming.
• Have fun and take lots of pictures!!!! 

 

Keep in mind that vacations are a beautiful time to build great memories that will last a lifetime. Do not worry if some things don’t go as planned, but focus on the incredible things that this can mean for your child and celebrate the present moments.

At WSCC, we offer support for autistic families and their children with Stem Cell Therapy treatments that can transform autistic conditions by healing the gut, decreasing inflammation and improving brain function. We also created an autistic community on Facebook that is destined to offer support and companionship for ASD parents and their families on their journey.

 

Remember, you are not alone!

 

https://worldstemcellsclinic.com/

 

Sources:

 

https://wdwprepschool.com/guide-to-disability-access-service-das-at-disney-world/