Hey teachers and friends! Are you ready for some magical news? Disney has made some amazing updates to make their parks even more fun and friendly for everyone, especially those with disabilities. Whether you're planning a field trip or helping families plan their vacations, this guide will help you understand all the new changes coming to Disney parks in 2024.
Disney's Accessibility and Inclusion Features For All
First things first, Disney is all about making sure everyone can enjoy the magic of Disney. They want every guest, no matter their needs, to have a fantastic time. So, they’ve made some big changes to help guests with disabilities. Let’s dive into these exciting updates!
1. New and Improved Disability Access Service (DAS)
Disney has a service called Disability Access Service (DAS) that helps guests who have trouble waiting in lines. Here are some new Disney accessibility features for all:
- Online Registration: Now, you can register for DAS online before you even get to the park. This makes it super easy to get set up and ready to go.
- Video Chat: When you register online, you can have a video chat with a Disney Cast Member (that's what Disney calls their employees). They’ll help you understand how DAS works and answer any questions.
- Return Times on Your Phone: With DAS, instead of waiting in line, you get a return time for rides. And guess what? You can now get these return times on the Disney app on your phone! No more running around to get return times – it’s all right there in your pocket.
2. More Accessible Attractions
Disney is working hard to make more of their rides and attractions accessible. Here are a few highlights:
- Ride Modifications: Some rides have been modified to make it easier for guests with mobility issues to get on and off. For example, there are now transfer devices and ramps on some rides.
- Sensory-Friendly Spaces: Disney has created quiet, sensory-friendly areas in the parks. These are great for guests who might need a break from all the excitement and noise.
- Visual and Hearing Assistance: There are more options for guests who are blind, have low vision, are deaf, or hard of hearing. This includes things like audio descriptions for shows and handheld captioning devices.
3. Enhanced Mobility Assistance
Getting around the parks is now easier too. Here’s what Disney has added:
- More Wheelchair and ECV Rentals: Disney has increased the number of wheelchairs and Electric Conveyance Vehicles (ECVs) available for rent. You can find these at all the parks and Disney Springs.
- Better Paths and Ramps: Paths and ramps throughout the parks have been improved. This makes it easier for guests using wheelchairs or ECVs to get around smoothly.
- Accessible Transportation: All Disney buses, monorails, and boats are accessible. They’ve also added more accessible parking spots closer to park entrances.
4. Special Dietary Needs
Disney understands that many guests have special dietary needs. Here’s how they’re making food choices easier:
- Allergy-Friendly Menus: Most restaurants now have menus that highlight options for guests with food allergies. You can find gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free, and other special dietary options.
- Meet the Chef: If you have specific dietary needs, you can ask to speak with a chef. They can help you find or even prepare a meal that’s safe for you.
- Mobile Ordering: You can now use the Disney app to order food in advance. This can help you avoid long lines and make sure your meal is just right.
5. Information and Planning
Planning a Disney trip can be a big task, no matter how many people you are planning for, but Disney has added some great tools to help:
- Updated Website: The Disney website has been updated with more information for guests with disabilities. You can find detailed info on accessibility, services, and tips for planning your visit.
- Guidebooks: There are new guidebooks available both online and at the parks. These guidebooks offer detailed information about accessibility for each attraction, restaurant, and service in the parks.
- Planning Assistance: Disney has a special team of Cast Members who can help you plan your trip. You can call or email them with any questions you have about accessibility.
How These Changes Help Teachers
As teachers, especially those working with special needs students, these updates are great news. With more information and tools available online, planning a trip is simpler. You can get everything set up before you even leave your school which makes it easier on everyone involved. Better-trained Cast Members and more accessibility options can make teacher feel confident that your students will have the support they need.
These updates mean that ALL your students can participate and enjoy the magic of Disney. From easier ride access to dietary options, there’s something for everyone.
A Magical Experience for All
Disney’s updates for 2024 are all about making sure everyone can have a magical experience. Whether it’s easier access to rides, better support for dietary needs, or more information and planning tools, Disney is making sure their parks are welcoming and fun for everyone.
So, get ready to plan your next magical trip to Disney with your students. With these new changes, it’s sure to be an adventure everyone will remember!
If you have any questions or need more information, don’t hesitate to reach out to Disney’s accessibility team. They’re always there to help make your visit as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Happy planning, and may your Disney trip be filled with magic and joy!
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