Want to know what to expect when you take your little ones to a Disney Park? Here is an essential guide if you are thinking about traveling to the Disney Parks with young children.
What age do you recommend taking a child to the Disney Parks?
There is absolutely no right or wrong answer to this question! This is truly a personal choice that each family has to make on their own. Yes, your child probably won’t remember a trip if they are under 3 years of age, but YOU will remember it and you will have photos and videos to show them when they are older. If you want to experience seeing the joy on their faces when meeting Mickey Mouse in person or their reaction when riding ‘it’s a small world,” then by all means, take them now!
What is the price for children under 3 years?
One of the benefits of taking young children to the Disney Parks is that all guests under 3 years of age are free! There is no ticket required for children under 3 years as long as his/her 3rd birthday is before your arrival date.
What will my child do at the Disney Parks?
When Walt Disney created the theme parks, he designed them with all family members in mind! Your little ones will not only enjoy the variety of slow-moving rides, but they will enjoy the entertainment, parades and seeing their favorite characters in person. Several of the Disney Parks also have playgrounds and water play areas for your little ones so they can just run around and explore.
What happens with my little one if I have older children who want ride an attractions and my toddler does not meet the height requirement or is scared?
Disney Parks offer a Rider Swap program which allows BOTH parents to enjoy the rides with their older children, while minimizing the wait time. Just ask a Cast Member at the front entrance of the attraction and they will give you instructions on how Rider Swap works at their location.
What happens if my child is having a meltdown in the middle of the park?
We know it happens. Too much stimulation can drive anyone to their limit and babies and toddlers are no exception. Thankfully, each Disney Park features a Baby Care Center. These quiet indoor locations offer private rooms with rocking chairs for nursing mothers, diaper changing areas and high chairs. There’s even a small TV playing cartoons. Anyone can utilize the Baby Care Centers and they are also equipped with diapers, formula and other baby supplies.
Will my child need a stroller even if they have outgrown one at home?
In my experience, your “older” toddler, preschooler and even early elementary school child will not refuse a stroller at the Disney Parks. Strollers are beneficial for getting around the expansive parks. Since you cannot bring strollers into shows or attractions, young children will be doing lots of walking through the long queues even if the wait time for the ride is short. You can rent a single or double stroller inside the Disney Parks or you can bring your own. Your Kingdom Destinations Travel Advisor can also help you reserve a stroller from a local company who will deliver them to your hotel.
What baby/toddler equipment is available at the Disney resorts?
All Disney resorts have onsite stores with baby supplies like swim diapers, medicine, toys, etc. When your Travel Advisor makes your hotel reservation, they can request a complimentary crib/pack-n-play and/or bed rails, which are available on a first come, first serve basis. If you prefer your child to have a private room to nap, many of the Disney resorts feature suites with separate bedrooms. Plus, most rooms at Disney’s Deluxe Villas also feature a full kitchen, high chair and washer/dryer.
What type of activities are available for babies and toddlers at the Disney resorts?
All of the Disney resorts feature pools with toddler friendly areas. Many resorts have zero-entry access, baby pools, kiddie slides, spraygrounds and some even have sanded beach areas! Plus, lifeguards are always on duty when the pools are open. Other activities around the resorts include playgrounds, movies on the lawn, scavenger hunts and other family friendly activities.
What will my toddler eat at the Disney Parks?
Like many theme parks, you will find plenty of toddler friendly food. However, Disney also provides lots of nutritious kid friendly meals including fruits, vegetables and other nutritious snacks. Plus, all guests under 3 years of age eat for free. You can serve your child anything from your plate or make their own plate from the buffet. The Disney Parks are also very lenient about allowing you to bring in sandwiches and other snacks. Please reference their policies beforehand to determine what items may not be acceptable.
Conclusion
Taking a baby or toddler to a Disney park is not as intimidating as one may think. With proper planning and expectations, your little ones can experience so much of the Disney magic and the adults will truly enjoy the memories of the child’s first visit.
What other questions do you have about taking little ones to the Disney Parks? What are some of the tips you can share? Please comment below.
For more information or to schedule a consultation about a trip to Walt Disney World or any other luxury family vacation, please contact Lissa Ryan at lissa@kingdomdestinations.com for a price quote.
Travel Advisor