How to Keep Kids Happy at Disney World
Tips to Help Parents Get the Most from a Family Vacation to Disney
Jan 30, 2009
Crowds, long lines, and hot summer weather can wreak havoc on a toddler’s day at Disney World, but with a few tips, prepared parents can make the day magical for themselves and their kids.
Rent a Stroller at Disney World
Families who have visited the Magic Kingdom are aware of its immense spread. Renting a stroller or bringing one along is tip number one for parents of toddlers and young children. The price of renting a stroller ($15 for a single and $31 for a double) will probably be worth it for those parents who choose not to bother with bringing their own along.
Walt Disney’s goal of making the trip into the Magic Kingdom feel like a journey into a whole new world is impressive, but does have its drawbacks. Families who stay in off-site accommodations will most likely find a mid-day run to the hotel impractical. Taking into account an hour or more round trip to get in and out, parents of infants or toddlers might opt to let the youngest members of the family nap on the go in a stroller. Strollers also provide some extra storage for all the backpacks, snacks, diaper bags, lunch supplies, camcorders, and souvenirs purchased along the way.
Staying on Site at Disney Resorts
Parents who can afford the extra splurge and book their accommodations at an on-site resort will want to make the most of it. Shuttles transport visitors to and from the parks relatively quickly, so a mid-day nap in the hotel room to recharge won’t eat up a huge chunk of the day.
Additionally, guests of the resorts can stay in the parks during extended hours on certain nights. A short break for lunch will help parents avoid the hottest part of the day as well as melt-downs from over-tired toddlers during the evening hours.
Make Use of Disney’s Fast Passes
When in the parks, there’s no reason not to take advantage of Disney’s Fast Passes. All parents need to do is scan their tickets into a Fast Pass machine located near many of the attractions with the longest wait times. The machine spits out passes to skip that attraction’s long line.
Each pass allocates a specific hour during which a family can come back to the attraction and enjoy it without waiting in line. In the time before that hour, parents can explore other attractions or grab a bite to eat. Since pass holders have an entire hour to use their Fast Pass, there’s no need to rush back right when the hour begins. For many of the most popular rides, fast Passes can turn an hour long wait into ten minutes.
Relax and Enjoy the Disney Vacation
One of the best tips is to relax and avoid putting too many expectations on the day. Parents who realize that even a spectacular vacation is bound to have its frustrating moments are much more likely to weather the inconveniences and come away with fond memories of the trip.
Many families plan and save for their Disney vacation for months. The trip is often a once-in-a-lifetime splurge. With stakes so high, many parents find it hard to relax and enjoy the trip, but those parents who aren’t looking for perfection are much more likely to hit closest to it.
With a little preparation, a Disney vacation can be the family trip everyone is hoping for. Parents can also check out a few quick planning ideas they can start on even before leaving home to help ensure a great trip.
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