Mouse Ears for Everyone!: A Guide to Walt Disney World for Guests with Special Needs

An All-Inclusive Guide to the Magic

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is especially challenging for families with special needs. The theme parks are happy places—but also loud, chaotic, and teetering on the verge of sensory overload. Don't let that stop you. Everyone is entitled to some pixie dust.

Amy Schinner has been a Disney fan all her life. Her trips to Disney World with her family are treasured memories. Now with two children of her own, one autistic and one not, she resolved to give them both the same experiences in the Disney theme parks that she herself had enjoyed. But with few resources available, she knew it would be a challenge.

So Amy did what any parent in her position would do: she made it work. She researched, she spoke to Disney cast members, and she connected with other parents of special needs children who also wanted to experience the Disney parks, but weren't sure where to begin.

The result is this book, Mouse Ears for Everyone, the definitive guide to planning a Walt Disney World vacation for individuals with special needs, no matter their ages.

From dealing with the airlines and solving issues with wheelchairs and strollers, to managing expectations for character meet and greets, Amy brings to bear not only the hands-on experience with her own special needs child, but her organizational acumen as a regional chairperson for Autism Speaks.

The book includes "sensory impact" evaluations for most rides, shows, and restaurants, and is sprinkled throughout with advice, tips, and lists to ensure a stress-free vacation.

Walt Disney envisioned a theme park for everyone. No matter what difficulties you face, you can enjoy the best Disney World trip of your life.