When I first decided to take Hirah to Disney World, I had two big feelings: excitement (because Disney is pure magic) and nervousness (because big crowds, long lines, and loud rides can be a lot for a neurodivergent child). I wanted this trip to be special, not stressful, so I did my research on Disney’s Disability Access Service (DAS) before we even left home.
Step 1 – Setting Up Disability Access Service (DAS)
DAS is Disney’s way of helping guests who can’t handle the regular standby lines due to disabilities, including sensory challenges. You can sign up in person at Guest Relations inside the park or through Disney’s website with a live video chat ahead of your trip.
We went straight to Guest Relations when we arrived. The cast member was kind, asked me about Hirah’s needs (I didn’t need to share a diagnosis — just explained that waiting in long lines would be overwhelming and could trigger meltdowns), and in a few minutes, we had DAS linked to our Disney app.
Step 2 – How DAS Worked for Us
Instead of standing in the regular line, DAS lets you select a ride and gives you a return time equal to the current wait time — but you wait somewhere else. For us, that meant spending that “wait time” in quieter areas, grabbing snacks, or doing a smaller attraction until it was our turn.
I can’t tell you how much that helped. We avoided the biggest meltdowns, and Hirah didn’t feel rushed or overloaded.
Step 3 – The Rides We Loved (and Managed Well)
Some rides at Disney are big on noise and flashing lights, but many are gentle and magical. Here’s what worked for us:
- It’s a Small World – Gentle boat ride, colorful scenes, and music that’s repetitive but calming for Hirah.
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh – Soft colors, slower pace, and familiar characters.
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant – Fun, gentle spinning with control over how high we went.
- Jungle Cruise – Outdoor boat ride with funny commentary; a good sensory break.
- Under the Sea – Journey of the Little Mermaid – Calm, slow-moving ride with soothing music.
We skipped some of the louder, darker rides on purpose — like Space Mountain — because I knew they’d be too intense.
Step 4 – Sensory Breaks and Quiet Spaces
Disney can be overwhelming no matter how much you plan. When Hirah needed a break, we used:
- The First Aid Centers — quiet, air-conditioned, and helpful staff.
- Baby Care Centers — even for older kids, they’re calm and less busy.
- Shaded benches in Liberty Square and the back of Fantasyland.
Step 5 – What I’d Tell Another Parent
- Sign up for DAS as soon as you arrive or online before your trip.
- Have noise-canceling headphones ready.
- Use the My Disney Experience app to plan short bursts of activity instead of going full speed all day.
- Don’t feel bad skipping things — it’s better to have a good day with fewer rides than a meltdown trying to do it all.
That trip wasn’t perfect — there were moments of overwhelm, some tears, and times we just needed to sit and breathe. But the magic outweighed the stress. Watching Hirah light up on Dumbo, hearing her laugh on “It’s a Small World,” and seeing her proud face after braving a ride she was nervous about… that’s the stuff I’ll remember forever.
Disability Access Service (DAS) Support Phone Number
If you’d prefer to speak with someone directly—whether to ask about live video chat setup or clarify DAS eligibility—you can reach Disney’s Accessibility Services Team at:
(407) 560-2547 Touring Plans
This number connects you to the team that helps with applying for, renewing, or updating DAS.
Quick Recap: How to Connect
- Need help starting DAS? Call (407) 560-2547 to talk it through with Disney’s team Touring Plans.
- Already approved and ready to register? Use the My Disney Experience app or schedule a live video chat up to 60 days before your trip WDW Prep SchoolEat Sleep Disney.
- In the park and need assistance? Visit any Guest Relations location to connect with DAS through a virtual chat on an on-site device WDW Prep SchoolAllEars.Net.
💙 If you’re planning a trip with your neurodivergent child, know that Disney’s DAS system can make a huge difference. And if you want more real-life stories from our travels, subscribe at HirahCares.org so we can keep sharing our adventures together.
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