Last month, I discussed tips on how to prepare and items to bring to hopefully avoid sensory overload. {You can read about it, here!} As a mom of a son living with Fragile X Syndrome, the leading cause of inherited intellectual impairment and leading known genetic cause of Autism, I feel as if I am always anticipating what could be a potential trigger for overload. Sometimes, even the best-laid plans don’t work out. A storm can pop up, a ride can have a temporary closure, or fireworks can suddenly go off from a show that you didn’t even realize was taking place!! I have put together a list of tips/suggestions for managing overload once it has reached near overflow!
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Baby Care/First Aid Station:
Although you do not “need” any aid, this is often an area with air conditioning, seating and simply a quiet place out of the hustle and bustle.
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Snack/Meal/Treat Break:
There are endless options. Look for an air conditioned location and often you can find a quiet corner, out of the way, to decompress. Ask a cast member for suggestions if you don’t readily see a quiet place.
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Park Specific Options:
This is not a comprehensive list, but giving you some options and ideas:
Magic Kingdom – Railroad (we often ride it around, sometimes more than once when overload is peeking), TTA- People Mover, Garden Area behind the Ye Old Christmas Shop
Epcot – The Land (Ride and Sunshine Seasons), Friendship Boats in the World Showcase, Garden Area in France, Fountain Area Outside of the Pixar Shorts Attraction
Animal Kingdom – The Safari (There is some talking and stopping, but a great place to decompress.), Restaurantosaurus has many quiet corners to cool off and relax
Hollywood Studios – Frozen Sing Along (Yes, there is music and singing, but it is cool and the music is familiar.), Benches Outside the Hollywood Brown Derby (Extra Bit: There are restrooms nearby too!) ABC Commissary/Backlot Express
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Transportation:
For my family, leaving the park before the dreaded meltdown occurs is essential. Riding the monorail or bus provides a slow rhythmic option to help decrease the overload. I am ashamed to admit how many times I have gotten sleepy on the trip back to the resort! There are also boat options to select resorts from all parks except Animal Kingdom.
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Resort Pool:
Even a quick trip to the pool can be beneficial! This is one of our best strategies for managing sensory overload.
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Nap/Sleeping in:
We all want to maximize our time when visiting a Disney destination. Detouring from the schedule to rest may be just the right thing to do! Fatigue makes it even harder to manage sensory overload.
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Cast members:
If you are in need of assistance, difficulty finding a quiet place or you fear you are nearing the brink of overload, ask for help!
I am mindful of sensory needs/overload and am happy to help you plan your next trip to a Disney Destination with your needs in mind! Visit our Contact Page to speak with one of our amazing and talented agents!
