“Disneyland’s Disability Access Service (DAS): A Complete Parent’s Guide”

Let’s face it: Disneyland is the place where dreams come true. But if you’re a parent of a child with special needs, getting to those magical moments might feel a little overwhelming. The lines can be long, the crowds can be…well, very crowded, and your child might not be able to wait in those lines for various reasons. That’s where Disneyland’s Disability Access Service (DAS) comes to the rescue, making sure that everyone in the family can enjoy the fun without the stress. Here’s how you can get the most out of the DAS program and make your day at Disneyland as magical as possible.

What Is the DAS Program?

First things first: What exactly is the DAS? The Disability Access Service is a program designed to help guests with disabilities (like those who have difficulty standing in long lines) access Disneyland’s attractions in a way that works for them. It’s not a front-of-the-line pass, but it allows you to schedule a return time for rides instead of waiting in the regular queue. That means you can take your time enjoying the park, grab a snack, or ride another attraction while you wait for your time to go on the ride. It is a great program, and it’s designed with your family’s comfort in mind.

Who’s Eligible for the DAS?

Great news: If your child has a disability that makes it difficult to wait in a standard Disneyland ride line, like one of my kids, they may be eligible for DAS. You don’t need to show proof of a specific diagnosis (no need to haul around doctor’s notes), but be ready to chat with a friendly Disney Cast Member about your child’s needs. After all, you know your child best, and the Cast Member is there to help you find the most comfortable and fun way to enjoy the park together.

How Do You Get Started?

Getting started with the DAS program is pretty simple—think of it like getting your FastPass, but with a dash of Disney magic. You can register for DAS in two ways:

1. Pre-Arrival: If you want to save time when you arrive, you can register for DAS ahead of your trip. You’ll schedule a video chat with a Cast Member 2-30 days before your visit. This way, you’ll get an idea of how the system works and can even select up to two DAS Advance selections for specific attractions. So, if your child’s must-ride list includes Space Mountain, you’ll have those spots secured before you even step foot in the park.

2. In-Park Registration: If you’re more of a “let’s wing it” kind of person, you can also register at Guest Relations once you arrive at Disneyland. Just head to one of the Guest Relations locations, and a Cast Member will guide you through the process. I recommend the Pre-Arrival option because the In-Park Registration will take time out of your day from enjoying the Magic Kingdom. 

Using the DAS in the Park: Here’s the Fun Part!

Once you’re all set up with DAS, it’s time to use it to your advantage. Here’s how it works: Instead of standing in the regular line for an attraction, your child will get a return time based on the current wait time. It’s kind of like a virtual queue, where you can enjoy other parts of the park while waiting for your turn. And don’t worry—DAS return times are flexible. If your child needs a break or you just want to grab a snack, there’s no need to rush back to the ride. You can check your return time and keep enjoying the park at your own pace.

One important thing to note: You can only have one active DAS ride scheduled at a time. But don’t worry—once you use your current return time or cancel it, you can get another! It’s a nice way to keep things moving without feeling overwhelmed by too many rides at once.

Pro Tip: Use the Disneyland App to Make It Even Easier

Let’s be real—anything that makes life easier at Disneyland is a win, right? The Disneyland app is a game changer when it comes to managing your DAS return times. You can check wait times, find return times, and even see ride availability—all from the palm of your hand. You’ll get alerts when it’s time to head back for your ride, so you’re never caught off guard. Plus, the app gives you real-time updates on ride closures or changes, so you’re always in the loop.

Rewards for Patience: Don’t Forget the Breaks!

Alright, we all know that even the most magical places need a little downtime. If your child gets overwhelmed or needs a break, no worries! Disneyland has a few quiet spots and relaxing areas where your family can recharge. From shaded benches to hidden gardens, take advantage of these spaces to unwind before jumping back into the fun. The DAS program ensures that your child won’t miss out on the magic, even if they need to take a breather in between rides. And don’t forget to reward your child for their patience—whether it’s a churro, a souvenir, or just a high-five for surviving the lines!

A Few More Things You Should Know

• DAS works alongside Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane selections. If you have Genie+ or Lightning Lane access, you can use those along with your DAS return times, which means you’ll have even more flexibility in planning your day.
  
• You can’t just wait forever for a ride, though. DAS return times aren’t open-ended, so be sure to show up on time! The good news is that you can schedule your next return time once you’ve used your current one, so the fun keeps rolling.
  

The Best Part: You Know Your Child Best!

Here’s the most important part: You know your child better than anyone else. Disneyland’s DAS program is designed to work with your child’s unique needs, and Cast Members are there to support you every step of the way. Whether it’s a favorite ride, a quiet spot to relax, or a certain type of reward for a job well done, the magic of Disneyland is all about making memories that work for your family.

Conclusion: Let the Magic Begin!

With the DAS program, Disneyland becomes a place where your child can enjoy the magic of the park without the stress of long waits and crowded lines. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the hundredth time, Disney’s DAS program gives you the tools to create a day filled with joy, relaxation, and of course, a little pixie dust. So grab your Mickey ears, pack those snacks, and get ready for a day that your whole family will remember forever. After all, Disneyland is the happiest place on Earth—especially when it’s made just for you!