In a sea of Disney guidebooks covering everything from family-friendly dining to money-saving tips, Amy Johnson’s “Mouse Ears for Everyone” stands out as the first comprehensive resource aimed at families with disabilities. As a former Disney employee and the mother of two, including a son with autism, Johnson was taken aback by the scarcity of tailored information for families navigating the parks with special needs. “After extensive searches online yielded little help, I realized I had to take action and create a resource that fills this gap,” she explained. “It was frustrating to see our community overlooked, and I felt compelled to make a difference.”
What began as a guide specifically for families with autism has blossomed into a thorough exploration of various disabilities, encompassing developmental delays, sensory sensitivities, mobility issues, food allergies, service animals, hearing impairments, and more. Drawing from her experience of visiting Disney 25 times, along with insights gained from interviews with families and Disney staff, Johnson has crafted a guide that invites continuous feedback through the “Mouse Ears for Everyone” website.
“Disney is generally accessible, but not every feature is friendly for all needs,” Johnson clarified. For instance, there are instances where queues aren’t wide enough for electric conveyance vehicles, necessitating a transfer to a standard wheelchair provided by Disney. Some attractions require lifting, while others allow visitors to remain in their wheelchairs throughout the experience.
When it comes to accommodations, Johnson noted that accessibility varies among Disney resorts. “I personally love the Caribbean Resort for its pool and bus access, whereas I would caution against choosing Disney’s Boardwalk if accessibility is a concern.” For families hesitant about the accessibility of Disney, Johnson assures that with thoughtful planning, adjustments can be made to enhance the experience for children with special needs. “While it may not be flawless, it will still be magical,” she said. “It does require a bit more preparation—perhaps a pair of noise-canceling headphones—but Disney’s commitment to customer service ensures that they prioritize meeting every guest’s needs.”
To help prepare children for the experience, Johnson recommends showing them videos of the attractions, parks, and resorts beforehand. “This helps them grasp that Mickey isn’t the size of an ordinary mouse and that some rides can be quite dark,” she added.
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In summary, “Mouse Ears for Everyone” is an invaluable guide for families with disabilities who wish to navigate the magical world of Disney, ensuring that every visit is tailored to meet their unique needs.
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