Information for parents with special needs children

As a parent of a special needs child and counselor for many families with such children, I find the most frustrating problem is being unable to find resources when I need them.  I would like to provide you with some information that might make daily life a little easier.

Some useful information is available from my Blog.  It's my online journal, recording some events that I have personally experienced.  In those Blogs you may find something helpful.  Your comments are always welcome.  Also, feel free to email me with questions on any topic.  If I can help you with some useful info, I will; and if I don’t know the answer perhaps I can point you in a helpful direction.

One area of challenge is traveling with special needs kids. If you go to any of the Disney theme parks, you can get a special pass so you do not have to wait in the mainstream lines.  Go directly to the customer relations area and let them know what you need. 

Sea World also provides passes for special needs kids.  You do not need notes from the doctors; just report your needs to the customer relations staff. They will ask what types of things happen if your child is in a line of people or waiting too long in that line.  Describe the behavior including anxiety attacks, fighting, meltdowns, mood swings, etc.  They want you as a customer and want your family to enjoy the day, so they will not ask you to leave.  They will make accommodations for you.

Busch Gardens also provides special accommodation passes.

It's a good idea to get a wheelchair for special needs children whenever you are at a theme park or large zoo.  They don’t have to sit in it all day, but it gives them a place to rest, and people will give you necessary space when they see a wheelchair.  Your child's disability usually is “invisible," meaning you can’t see anything different when looking at the child. Children with crutches, a wheelchair, leg braces, etc. are all given space and special accommodations because the disability is visible.  Our family has found the wheelchair accommodation works very well.  Often my son does the pushing and I do the sitting!  It still gives him the necessary room to navigate without people bumping into him and causing a meltdown.

Check back to this site for updates on useful information or check the Blog.