The Autistic World of Disney

 Travelling involves a lot of planning and preparation at best, then factor in the pre-planning when a special needs child is involved, and you've got to think about a lot more. Our son is a teenaged autistic, energetic and very happy guy. He's always on the move,......always, and he's very strong. I have to think about where I'll be with him, what might arise and how he might react, be it positively or adversely. I have to check to see if there are family restrooms, because he needs supervision in those areas and I have to always make sure that I'll have a back up exit plan that's ready to be implemented at a moments notice. When planning for our seventh cruise with Disney back in 2011 on their newest ship at the time, the Disney Dream, I streamed videos of anything I could find about the ship. Contacting Disney Cruise Line, they were wonderful in sending me their planning video, which was a useful and informative aid. Disney Dream (photo: Disney Cruis...

When it comes to entertainment, Disney Cruise Line does it best. People think taking a Disney cruise is just for kids. I disagree. A lot of focus and planning has gone into entertaining children of all ages. It's all about discovering your inner youth and holding on to it. Family activites are plentiful on all four ships, leaving plenty of time for everyone to go off and have experiences and relaxation and loads of fun on their own. We can't crowd each other, after all. Deck Parties: From the moment you board the ship the festivities begin and a deck party awaits you. It's called, the Sail Away Celebration and you'll find it on the pool deck. Be prepared to dance and cheer as you meet many Disney Characters and Crew. Photo: PassPorter.com On a special night of your cruise be prepared to don your pirate attire because the whole ship transforms into a pirate ship for preparation for Pirates Night . All the sit down restaurants are specially themed, have fu...