Disneyland Guests With Disabilities; Using A Stroller At Disneyland As A Wheelchair.
I love the Magical Kingdom for many reasons but most importantly Disneyland accommodations for families with special needs is outstanding. Special needs can be visible or not as easily recognized with some children and that’s why it’s important to know this one rule of thumb, strollers can be used as wheelchairs at Disneyland. Let me elaborate so we may gain a better understanding how strollers can be used as wheelchairs.
When I was Disneyland I had noticed stroller-pushing parents being directed to the stroller “parking lot”, then all of a sudden one stroller parent with a child was allowed to either enter into a show or enter through the exit line of the ride. Why can that stroller go where other strollers can’t? The stroller belongs to a special needs child. The stroller has been tagged with a red tag that is similar to a luggage tag. It has a symbol of a wheelchair on it and an arrow that points to a wheelchair. This tag allows the stroller with said child to go anywhere that a wheelchair can go. The tag is a lifesaver for special needs parents. It allows their child to remain buckled in place until it’s time to board a ride, this is important when a child doesn't understand danger and would run in front of a moving ride without thinking of the consequences. This also keeps the child safe from running off and getting lost or having an epic tantrum while the line is moving. It allows a child to sit in their safe place, remain comfortable for shows that contain loud noises and unfamiliar sites that are certain to set off a meltdown. It also helps a child with difficulty walking to remain in their stroller during long days at the parks where their legs would give out.
The stroller as wheelchair tag combined with the guest assistance card is a sanity saving device for parents of children with specials needs who are overwhelmed with how their child will deal with all of the sights and sounds of the park. Parents want to have fun also at the happiest place on earth, the magic of Disney is creating family memories. It’s imperative that parents know Disney has a clear understanding that parents need that extra precaution to keep their child safe and happy. Disneylands’ goal: spreading Pixie Dust so everyone has a magical day.
Another convenience Disneyland offers is the Disability Access Service, DAS is intended for guests whose disability prevents them from waiting in a conventional queue environment. This service allows you to schedule a return time that is comparable to the current queue wait for the given attraction. Once a return time is issued, you’re free to enjoy other theme park offerings such as meeting a Character, grabbing a bite to eat, enjoying entertainment or even visiting another attraction until their listed return time. Return times are valid until redeemed prior to park closing. You can only have one active return time at a time. As soon as an outstanding attraction return time is redeemed, you’re able to receive a return time for the same or a different attraction. This service can be used in addition to Disney’s FASTPASS® Service.
DAS, with its virtual wait, will accommodate many of their Guests with disabilities. In unique situations, Disney Guest Relations staff will discuss special accommodations for persons who are concerned DAS doesn’t meet their needs (e.g., those whose disability limits the duration of their visit to the park or limits their choice of attractions). All accommodations are made in person, on site at Guest Relations. They are unable to provide accommodations in advance of a Guest visit. Guest Assistance Cards (aka: GAC) and “Stroller = Wheelchair” Tags can be picked up at any Guest Relations office located near the entrance of each Disney theme park.
Everybody in the world was once a child. We grow up. Our personalities change, but In everyone of us something remains of our childhood….My business is making people, especially children, happy.~ Walt Disney
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