Do you have any advice on visiting a theme park with a child with vision impairment?
Theme parks are all about thrills, excitement and plenty of physical and sensory stimulation. To help a child with vision impairment prepare for the experience, begin by taking some time to fully explain the different elements they may encounter. It’s easy to look at a roller coaster and know what’s involved, including potentially:
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moving at speed
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being thrown upside down
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spinning
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being splashed with water
These are visual clues that, depending on their level of sight, a child with a vision impairment may miss.
Explain the ride thoroughly before your child gets on, and if they’re nervous, you can start on the small rides like merry go rounds or miniature train rides. Get some experience and build up to the wilder rides!
Theme parks often offer concessionary entry and specialist support through a variety of schemes. Take a look at the theme park’s accessibility provision on their website and get in touch with them if you have further questions.
Further information on travel and concessions is available on RNIB’s website:
RNIB Specialist Advice Service Advisors can give further information on this topic
