Where to Turn For a Sensory Break
A Blog Series on Traveling With My Son With Special Needs
By BethAnn Hefner
You’ve come a long way to get to Disney and you want to spend as much time there making memories and make the most of your dollar. You make dining reservations, Fast Pass reservations, and detailed itineraries. But what happens when something doesn’t go according to plan?
As parents, we come to expect meltdowns during the vacation. And to a child with special needs, the crowd, the heat, the waiting, and the fun of Disney can be a lot to handle. So what do you do when you see the meltdown coming or find yourself in the middle of a full-blown tantrum? Do you bail on the park and run back to your resort? Maybe, but don’t think that is the only option. Take a note from Elastigirl and become flexible; there is always time for a break!
Aside from taking items with us that J prefers to help him “chill out,” I like to have a list of places we can turn to when the park gets to be too much for him. There are plenty of experiences that can be soothing and help get him back on track. Some of these ideas are at the ready when you need them but others may involve waiting in a line.
All theme parks and water parks
First Aid (little to no wait time)- Everyone knows you can turn here to take care of a scraped knee or medicine for a headache. But you also need to know is that this can also be a perfect spot for respite. First Aid stations are quiet and cool spaces where you can ask to sit quietly, often in a separate space from others, until your loved one feels ready to get back into the park. Take some time to use a sensory tool, enjoy a favorite snack, watch YouTube videos, etc. You’ll be back in the park in on time!
Magic Kingdom
Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover- Move along your own open-air PeopleMover high above Tomorrowland. Catch a breeze and people-watch.
Enchanted Tales With Belle- Belle is sweet and her voice is soothing. She reads a story to the kids and interacts with them.
The benches outside of Enchanted Tales With Belle (no wait time)- This is a quieter place with benches and lots of shade. This has consistently been less crowded every time we go to MK. We usually choose this spot when we need a snack. Sure there are lots of strollers parked along the way, but there aren’t a lot of people!
Epcot
Coral Reefs with Sea Turtles and Fish (no wait time)- The Aquarium is located in the building with The Seas With Nemo and Friends. It’s a scientific fact that watching fish swim can lead to a reduction in heart rate and blood pressure. The aquarium itself has lowered lights and is cool. All of these things combined lead to relaxation for the entire family!
Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival- Who doesn’t love Short Films? Maybe some humor in an airconditioned theater can take the edge off.
The Exit in the back of Epcot (no wait time)- This exit, located between England and France, is usually very quiet.There are lovely, white benches that sit in the shade and overlook the water.
It’s the perfect spot to sit and cool off, have a snack, or take part in a sensory therapy that works for your loved one.
Animal Kingdom
Various Animal Experiences (no wait time)-The Animal Kingdom is loaded with places to relax. The animal exhibits can all be places to slow down and relax while you watch the wildlife. There are quiet paths that lead from habitat to habitat. Pick your favorite animal and head there to de-stress!
Wildlife Express Train (typically a very short wait)- Want to see the animals of the African Savannah while you sit and relax? The train is perfect! The lines to board and typically under 10-15 minutes because most people wait in line for Kilimanjaro Safari. That’s another one of our favorites but it didn’t make our list as a relaxing sensory experiences; the truck you ride in can be loud and jostling.
Hollywood Studios
Maybe your loved one needs to get out some of their energy. Then get grooving at the Disney Junior Dance Party or Celebrate with the Incredibles at Pixar Place.
Or is belting out a tune going to help release some stress? Then head over to A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration or Beauty and Beast-Live on Stage.
How about a hug from your favorite character? Meet up with Mike and Sulley, Olaf, Chewbacca, and many more!
I’d love to hear from you about additional places you think work for a sensory break. And I would love to help you coordinate your trip! Please feel free to email me at BethAnn@101dreamvacations.com or connect with me on my FaceBook page, 101 Dream Vacations by BethAnn