Looking for Kid Tips at WDW :-)

[viluvsdisney]

Hi again- now we're looking for great kid tips. We're going with our 4 year old - and looking for fun Disney tips. Anything is appreciated - we got some great one's last year (like bringing Shout Wipes with us to clean up clothes- although my husband seemed to use them more than the 3 year old..lol...) Or must see things for this age too. Anything you've tried and been successful with is welcome advice. Thanks!!

[Bambi]

As well as the shout wipes..........ANTIBACTERIAL ANTIBACTERIAL sorry anyone who knows me knows I can't stand germs. How many people go on all the rides so how many germs ....After my kids get off the rides that require touching like buzz light year. I always clean their hands. Not obsessively though. You don't want your child picking up a virus or anything while on your trip to disneyworld.

Someone mentioned games to play while waiting in line for rides.......things like I spy with my little eyes something that is.......

Also, just taking a break in the afternoon when it is very hot. I always head back to the hotel in peak heat hours. Of course I enter the parks early (as soon as park opens) so I get alot done to make up for those hours that I am back at the hotel.

Attractions.......playhouse disney at MGM's and Crystal Palace with pooh is the favorite of my preschooler. Have lots of fun and hope you find my tips helpful! I am actually looking forward to reading other peoples tips to help me on my trip!

[OKWTink]

Let you child know beforehand, what to expect.
We are going to MK today, until lunchtime. We'll leave and go back to the resort where you'll have lunch, a swim in the pool and a nap. We'll go back to MK just before dinner...etc.
It will go a long way toward preventing acting out in the parks. Your child will be able to let you know ahead of time if something doesn't appeal to her/him and you can discuss it before the fact.

Never underestimate the toll walking the parks and standing in line will take on a little one's energy. Strollers are a good idea for children, even when they think they are "too old." I once had to coerce a six year old into accepting a stroller at the beginning of a day, but she was seriously happy as the day wore on! :) If you are going to use WDW strollers, consider brining something to pad the hard thing! A pillow or a soft blanket can go a long way toward increasing comfort.

I'm certain you won't but I have to say this anyway. NEVER force a child on an attraction. This is probably my number one pet peeve. I know it cost a "fortune" to bring the child, and I know that many parents have their heart set on a child experiencing something, but please let the child set the tone. Screaming terror stricken children are heartbreaking to see! This applies to characters, as well. Many little children are frightened by the characters, especially the villans. Pass them by if this is the case with your child.

Consider carrying little juice packs (boxes or packets) cheese cubes/bits, raw vegetables if you child will eat them, raisins, nuts, if your child is old enough and the nuts don't pose a choking hazard, and other small nutritious snacks. It will cut the cost, to be sure, but may reduce the requests for the park treats that will result in sugar overload.

Don't forget sunglasses or a hat with a visor for the child.

Mostly, don't worry and have a great time! :ears:

[Whitequeen]

I've got a tip!!!!

Because Disney/UStudios have such wonderful 'facades' to their rides, you can't see what the ride does!! Try and find out before hand what goes on in the ride or your little one will forever blame you for letting her/him go on something that was WAY to high/fast for them!!!

Samantha does not let me forget that I let her go on the 'Jurassic' ride at IOA and the 'fall' down the water bit was terrifying for her!!!!:eek: :hehe:

Silly Mummy!!!!!:rolleyes:

[Mickeymac]

Bring extra socks. It helps tired feet to change them throughout the day.

Also, expect that at some point during the day, that they will run across an opportunity to get wet, and make up your mind (and a diversion) to deal with it ahead of time. We wear sandals and let them get wet, but I've seen many a parent drag a sobbing child away. I've also seen an equal number of clever souls use redirection tactics, almost as if they had an answer to the problem ahead of time. I thought that was neat.

Oh, on the anti-bacterial wipes issue - did you know you need to wash with them for minutes, not seconds, in order for them to be affective (and get between the fingers, at the webbing) Otherwise, you are merely increasing the bacteria's resistance. I was shocked when I learned this bit!

[Wendy]

:ears: Priorty tip!
First signs of cranky,tired kids : GET OUT OF THE PARK! Take that as a signal for hotel/pool/rest time. After all,when they get home ,their fave memory is usually.......the hotel pool!:lol: :lol:
I also agree with OKWTink, little snacks along the way are a treat,especially if they each have their own bum-bag ( US:?fanny-pack?) to carry them in.
Also, when explaining whats happening the next day,ask them one special ride/thing to do they want and make sure you do it. If they feel they're getting some input, happy faces!:thumbs: :thumbs:
And,if kids dont want to go on any attraction,"its ok....we can do that when you're ready" its a great excuse to start planning the next trip!!:hehe: :hehe:

[Bambi]

Interesting Mickeymac on the antibacterial bit. I didn't know that! Even though I always emphasize between the fingers bit. I will make sure I have them wipe longer.

Also did anyone mention giving them plenty of water to prevent dehydration. Also sun screen! Its extremely expensive to purchase in the park so make sure to pack it. You don't want your kids getting sunburned! Definately, Oktwink is right about the snack part! I packed the goldfish crackers, pretzels and animal crackers.

[wdwgrandma]

Bring along a few of those "throw-away" cameras and let the little ones take their own photos! They see the world from a totally different angle, and you'd probably be surprised what they might photograph! But it gives them the opportunity to be "behind" the camera for a change as opposed to always being in front of it.

Oh, and some Disney trivia cards... If you have the game at home, pack the set for younger children. Then, while waiting in line or for the parade, you can ask them questions! If you don't have the game, make up your own! Cut photos of the characters from magazines (if you can stand to...) or from all those Disney Store catalogs you've been hanging on to. Or go to some of the really cool Disney clipart sites online and grab some great character clipart. Then paste the photos on to card stock and make your own trivia cards. Even little ones can look at a photo and "guess" who the character might be!

[Cinderella]

Pack a change of clothes or have your child wear a bathing suit under his/her clothing. Let them play in the fountains to cool off if it's hot.

Look for interesting and fun things in the park.

The singing in the rain umbrella in MGM
Look for the key under the mat at Muppets 3D.

If it's a ride/show that you haven't been to before, get a seat at the end of the row. If you child is frightened or gets cranky you can make a quick exit.

Baby wipes work as well as shout wipes. Since you will have a baby with you and will have wipes use those. They are great to get stains out and for quick hand wiping when you can't get to the bathroom right away for washing.

For the baby, buy one of those stroller clip on fans to keep him/her cool.

[BigThunder]

My tips:

Take it slow. Don't try to rush through the park to get to everything even though it is very tempting. Take time to smell the roses!

Bring an extra T & thin shorts in case they get wet. So many wet rides & places to play in water. My kids love it while it's happening & then whine & cry afterwards because they are wet & uncomforable. I can't tell you the times I have had to buy a new outfit to shut them up. I'm smarter now & on days I know they will get wet I put them in a bathing suit top & wet shorts & pack dry stuff in my backpack.

Spend some time at the pool. Ok, maybe not all kids & parents would like this but we LOVE the pools. The theming & the slides. it's to nice to miss out on. Enjoy the resort some, you pay enough.

Pack some snacks in the parks. These help when waiting in line.

Take a stroller. This is a must if your kids are ages 6 & under in my opinion. If you can save those legs by letting them rest between rides it will pay off as the day progresses.

If you are out late, let them sleep in a little the next day. I don't mean until noon or something but don't set the alarm for 7 am. I've done this before & my kids are just exhausted by noon the next day.

Well, I've given more info than you probably wanted. Really it's a learning experience every time for me. I pick up something new every visit. :sun:

[viluvsdisney]

Hi everyone- Thanks so much for all of your great suggestions!! We leave in less then 6 months and can't wait. It will be our first Halloween at WDW :ears: If there are any other tips for traveling with a baby and 4 year old - we appreciate all of them!! Thanks again!!

[wdwgrandma]

...oh... And if you are doing this trip "for the kids", please be attune to their "clocks", wants and needs.

You don't know how many children I've seen out WAY too late. They were cranky, crying, bored, etc., just because the parents didn't want to leave the parks.

I've seen way too many kids underdressed on days that were really chilly and/or wet, and you just KNOW that child will end up sick.

I've seen sick kids with parents telling them that they will be ok - even tho the little one really looks like all she/he wants is to go back to the room and sleep.

I've seen frightened kids forced onto rides that totally terrify them - begging their parents and crying.

I've seen way too many parents yell at their kids for the littlest things - spilling a drink or dropping a toy. And even saying things like "You're ruining this trip". How sad...

I've seen way too many kids who are crying and cranky in the morning - probably because they were kept out too late the night before and they didn't get enough sleep.

And I've seen way too many parents use their children as a way to bypass others in line. If you start teaching your children to lie and cheat when they are small, how do you expect them to grow up to be honest citizens?

Everyone wants their trip to WDW to be the best ever - especially for their child. So don't try to cram everything into one trip. Do a few things and then let your child rest if they need it. If that means taking them back to the resort for a nap, do it! And keep telling yourself that you will bring them again, so if you missed a show or a ride, you'll do it on another trip.

So if your child wants to ride Dumbo (or, heaven forbid - It's a Small World), ride it with him/her and make it seem like the most fun you've ever had - and it should be because you are doing it with your child! There will be time for the scarier rides when they are older and more able to handle it.

[JacksDad]

WDWGrandma, I don't think that anyone could ever post better advice.
Perhaps the moderators will take this post and bump it up to the top and lock it there.
You go Grandma. ;)

[wdwgrandma]

Thanks! I don't know about the moderators, but I'll be glad to "bump" it to the top and "stick" it there for awhile! (one of the "perks" of being an admin!)

[miraclemoments]

Wow, how could you ever follow that up? Great advice wdwgrandma...

One thing I might interject that I actually learned on these boards and have taken to heart on each trip. In the morning, before you leave for your day, take a snapshot of each of your children (this really works well if you have a polaroid or a digital camera). That way if (heaven forbid) something were to happen to one of your children, you would have a spot on picture of them, including what they were wearing for the day. No one expects anything to happen, and we all pray that it won't, but it is always good to be prepared!

[JacksDad]

Moderator, Admin. Eh. Whatever.;)
Also excellent advice from Miracle.
You folks are great!

[JacksDad]

Moderator, Admin. Eh. Whatever.;)
Also excellent advice form miracle.
You folks are great!

[wdwgrandma]

That's what we are here for!!!! We live but to serve... going to bed now...

[itchy]

I'm new to this board and have been picking up LOADS of great tips about taking kids. One thing I would like to say is that kids love all the playgrounds etc and when I go this time I'm really going to try hard to let them PLAY in them not just let them run around for 2 minutes before moving them onto the next item on my agenda! We did do that at Univeral at Curious Georges and they had such a good time! its very easy (for me anyway) to say "But we could be doing this at home" but does it matter? Also my 6 year old keeps asking when we are going back to "Legoland" by that he means the lego shop at Downtown Disney!! Also the point about not getting cold was a good one, We did mickeys Not so Scary Halloween with a 5 year old and 18 months and they had a great time BUT I dressed them innapropriatly in their costumes and they were really quite cold (BAD MOTHER!!) .Hope this helps.

[dcfromva]

My four tips:

1. Handwashing before every meal.... seek out a restroom and wash with soap and water. This can be a challenge especially when you pass by the popcorn stand and it smells so wonderful and all you're thinking about is POPCORN! (Those hand washy things would be especially good for cases of emergency hand washing like this! :) ).


2. Drink plenty of fluids--especially in the summer. Sometimes, folks debate the merits of bottled water versus tap water in FL.... My advice is find something that tastes good to the children (whatever it is) and make sure they are drinking plenty.

3. Afternoon breaks. Even if I didn't have a child with me, I would still like to take an afternoon break for some rest and relaxation. After 24 visits to WDW, I have decided there is no way I will see everything no matter how long we stay--so, I might as well just relax and take it at a slower pace (and we have another excuse to come back :) ). Plus, there are tons of things to do at the resorts. You don't want to be wishing you had more time to enjoy the amenities offered at the resort when you are checking out....

4. Sun protection: Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. This is year round advice. I am forever forgetting sunscreen when we visit FL in the winter--and I end up buying some down there. If you are planning a winter visit, stock up on your sunscreen at end of summer--because it may be tricky to find some in the middle of winter. I try to keep a bottle of my favorite sunscreen in my travel bag all the times, so I don't forget it.

-DC :ears:

[dizzyknee]

If you have a warm day enjoy a water park. There is plenty to do for your little ones. We went with our 7month old and 3 y.o. (several years ago) and it was our favorite day. We felt like we spent time with our kids rather that pushing a stroller. It is hard to talk to your kids when they are in a stroller or on a ride all day...but drifting down the Lazy river nursing my baby and floating along with our DD was pure bliss.


BTW with regards to the dirty hand problem I have heard that a good percentage of germs will wash away with just water, so when nothing else is available, order up a Dasani for your hands.

[JacksDad]

While Jack is long past nursing, that sounds like a beautiful idea. It shall be done. Thanks!:D

[JacksDad]

While Jack is long past nursing, that sounds like a beautiful idea. It shall be done. Thanks!:D

[Mickeymac]

While Jack is long past nursing

So, Dad, how long did he nurse you?

(sorry, could not resist. :D )

I think those rivers alone are worth the price of admission to the water parks. :D

[JacksDad]

I'm still nursing. (Coors Light);)

[Ariellover7]

I say that kids should have their own special things at Disney World and not let a brother or sister get in the way. My sister was jealous because I bought more soveniers than she did (I had more money). Give every kid an equal amount of money and they will feel special!

[psdjmem]

What wonderful ideas you all have!! I never thought about the antibacterial wipes and the extra socks - great tip.

The only thing i can add is at all 4 of the WDW parks the child care center has been a life saver so nice and calm cool and if you do forget something for your baby or toddler they have it!! Very nice place to nurse your wee one if needed. Your kids can even eat lunch in there!!

We had two explosive diapers :eek: 3 years ago and i can say thank goodness for the child care center we needed a whole bunch of wipes and all new clothing LOL it was a diaster!! :wacko: but all was well with the help of a nice CM and our charge card :lol:

[GraciesMom]

One thing we always, always, do on any trip, we have one day which we do nothing. Sleep late, do laundry etc. It is a must.

[lisaw]

One really nice thing that my 4 year old son loved last year was the 'Belle's Storytime Garden' in the MK hidden away along side the castle between Fantasyland and Tomorrowland . Belle tells her story and picks lots of children to help her act it out my son was chosen as Gaston and he absolutely loved it and Belle is by far his favorite princess now as he was made to feel very special :ears:

[d_dreamer]

The first thing is dont drag ne kid on a ride they are 2 afraid 2 go on. I got really freaked out wen I went on pirates and (dont laugh) pinocio as a little kid. My other piece of advice is 2 go 2 the pool when they get worn out.

:ears:

[Ilovetink]

If you are taking your 4 year old to epcot he will probably enjoy making a mask and collecting stamps from each country. You can get a blank mask at any country and then he can color it and get a stamp at each country you visit. I also had my kids get a stamp and signature from each country in their autograph books. This way they enjoyed going around the world showcase instead of complaining that they were bored. It made our journey much more pleasant. If he wants to see characters, each country has their character (ie--Mulan in China, snow white in germany, Beast in France). They are generally only out in the day and you can ask any cast member in that country where to find them. Have fun!!!:wave:

[Alexander]

Please forgive me if I missed it, but I don't think I saw anything about planning ahead how and when you'll shop for souvenirs. Will your child have money that they can spend on items. Do you have a dollar limit. Will you avoid the shops in the parks and hotels. Do you plan to shop at DTD. Will you just purchase everything your child wants. These are all things to think of ahead of time to avoid that constant begging for just one more toy. Be sure to lay the ground rules with your child so they know ahead of time what to expect.

[Sweet_girl99]

have a yard sale, they could sell some of their toys that theay dont play with. or maybe a lemonaide stand. they money they make they can use for Disney world

[djgiffordrn]

Oh, on the anti-bacterial wipes issue - did you know you need to wash with them for minutes, not seconds, in order for them to be affective (and get between the fingers, at the webbing) Otherwise, you are merely increasing the bacteria's resistance. I was shocked when I learned this bit!

I have to chime in on the antibacterial wipes..good ole soap and water is best and NOT antibacterial. "antibacterial" is being way over marketed and it cause more restistance to germs. You can use ole fashioned handi wipes or even beby butt wipes...(I am and RN and worked in infection control for years) I am not trying to start a debate but just be assured that soap and water are best...

[wdwgrandma]

For slightly older children, let them collect pennies and quarters for their trip. Then, when they get to WDW they can buy pressed pennies.

[Meezers]

I have read this whole thread and think these are great ideas....for children and adults!

[djgiffordrn]

For slightly older children, let them collect pennies and quarters for their trip. Then, when they get to WDW they can buy pressed pennies.

This is awesome, we do this with my 11 year old and such fun finding the machines, as sometimes they are tucked away in a corner of the store. It does add up though, and our coin bag can get heavy, but it is sooooo much easier to have a baggie full of nice shiny pennies and quarters than to have to scrounge around for change. :wink:

[wdwgrandma]

The two granddaughters we are taking to FL next week have been tucking away change for quite some time now. They both have a squashed penny or two that they've gotten from other places, so they are looking forward to finding their own at WDW! I've already bought them the book to store them in. All they have to do is decide which ones they want and squash them!

[tnpoohbear]

My daughter loves the mickey waffles at the resorts. At all star movies was her favorite - they have small mickey waffles for kids and big mickey waffles for us big kids. She is now 13 and loves the big ones. She talks about that as much as anything. Also she remembers when she was little that she got to play in the fountains that squirt up from the ground. Carry a change of clothing. She also still loves the Honey I Shrunk The Kids playground.

[ShelleyB]

One really nice thing that my 4 year old son loved last year was the 'Belle's Storytime Garden' in the MK hidden away along side the castle between Fantasyland and Tomorrowland . Belle tells her story and picks lots of children to help her act it out my son was chosen as Gaston and he absolutely loved it and Belle is by far his favorite princess now as he was made to feel very special :ears:[


I've never seen this before, could you tell me where abouts it is, and are there any particular times that they hold these stories? If so, does anyone know the best time to go.

[lisaw]

It is on the right hand side of the castle as you face it - if you walk around that side of the castle it on the path that leads round towards Mickey's Toon Town Fair and the Indy Car track. It is quite tucked away but if you are looking for it you shouldn't miss it. It is a little open air theatre with a few bench type seats and a little open stage. The show times are posted at the entrance to the seating area and should also be on the park timetable. Get there early if your child wants a chance of a part though :)

[thlarock]

I would say even if u have a toddler who can walk, you should get a stroller. I know they want to be like us & walk but remember they are not used to walking that much each day.Also those that normally may not take naps might . As for the rides, Go to the wdw web site & cklick on attractions & some of the more popular rides r there.MY DD loves to look there . On the splash mountain ride they show people going down the hill & she screams with them.Its so funny how her voice trails off at the end.

[minnie17_6]

When i was 8 i went to mickey and minnies house which is my favourite disney memory so you could always try that (though i did that 9 years ago lol)

[LadyKay]

Can someone explain to me what pressed pennies are?

[tnpoohbear]

My DS calls them smashed pennies! Throughout the different parks, Downtown disney, and resorts you find these machines. Most of them cost 51 cents two quarters and a penny. you get a flattened out penny that has a picture on it - like Lion King, Mickey, etc... You can get these books that cost $6.00 each to keep them in - we have four different books. They also have these smashed pennies at Seaworld and Universal and IOA.

I have found out that each resort will have a certain type that you can get only there. Sometimes there are also special ones which cost like 1.00 (I think) plus a penny. Last year my DS lost one of his books at downtown disney - unfortunately we could not remember which ones were in that book.

It is fun to collect them.

[psdjmem]

Here is a tip that I will be trying out this year on our vacation to WDW. If you have younger kids pack and entire outfit - shirt, pants, socks, undies, hair bands ect. put all of that in a large gallon zip lock baggie. This makes it easy to grab out the whole outfit not having to go looking for a missing sock or a shirt to match the pants! You can aslo let them pick what bag they would like to wear each day, I thought it would be great to have a spare outfit in the water proof zip lock baggie while in the park too for accidents that you need a fresh set of clothes.

[tempertinker]

My best tips

BUBBLES!

we have 2 girls (2yo and 6yo) and BUBBLES keep them occupied while in line (outdoors of course) or even while in the stroller riding around, other kids enjoy them too - who doesnt like bubbles??? you can get the small bottles (like the party favor ones) at walmart for less than 4 dollars and it has about 24 bottles in it..I actually have some butterfly necklaces (that we bought in dollywood) that hold bubbles, they wear them and they know when they can (and can't) use them

CANDY!

now normally I dont let them eat candy, but sugar free stuff can go along way when you are waiting in line (esp for buzz and pooh) suckers, candy necklaces, go to your local dollar store and stock up.

BAGGIES!

keep several lunch baggies in your bags (diaper or fanny packs..)
you never know when you are going to have to use them. Ive had candy, dirty tissues and dirty paci's in ours b/f...

HTH's some!!

[megpeg]

These are all great tips! Thanks everyone.I'll keep them in mind when I take my grandkids in Oct. Megpeg

[pmdc819rg]

[quote=wdwgrandma]...oh... And if you are doing this trip "for the kids",
And I've seen way too many parents use their children as a way to bypass others in line. If you start teaching your children to lie and cheat when they are small, how do you expect them to grow up to be honest citizens?






It doesent get any better than that. One more person w/ morals. It angers me to see people be dishonest. And being rude to kids. Its not like most people get to go to Disney World on a weekly basis w/ there kids. Let it be their fun, listen to them they will let you know if they are tired, hungary or bored, Take alot of pictures and cherish the time you spend with them, because not all people are fortunate to have children. I am, and it's Disney for the Kids not me.:)

[Mich]

I would just like to say thanks to everyone for the advice on things to do when you are there with your kids.:) This will be our first holiday to WDW with my 4 year old a 3 year old they are already making lists of things to do and see lol. :wacko:

[ThinkTink]

I read somewhere that if your child is scared of the potty's that flush by themselves, get the narrow post-its. They can stick them over the button so that it won't flush until they pull it off. My 5 year old is deathly afraid of those toilets. Sometimes stalls are so narrow we don't both fit into them.

Also, there is a great book. It's called Walt Disney World, For Kids, by Kids. It has pictures of every single ride, show and a description of the ride. They are rated and the kids tell you if they are dark, scary, noisy, etc. It's also good so that your child can look and see what's available. We let our kids look through and pick the first ride that we go on. Kali River Rapids has won for the last 2 visits.

Hope these help.
Brigitte

[heatherb819]

I complete agree with the post it notes, that is the best advice. We were there last September and my three year old was deathly afraid of the toilets too. A CM told me about the post its and even gave me some to use while we were there. We are going back this Oct and I won't forget them.

[d_dreamer]

Never heard of the post-it notes trick, but that's pretty nifty.

:iagree: Totally buy the for kids by kids version, it gets them interested in what they want to do, and if they can take it :D

[debouellette]

I noticed you've been to Wilderness Lodge and Port Orleans (Dixie Landings)...we're looking at both and wondering which you would recommend for staying with kids? I like that WL has balconies (somewher to go when they're sleeping) but heard bad reviews re:transportation from WL. Also, considering POFQ..sounds pretty & quiet, plus less $. Please let me know. Thanks.

My tips:

Take it slow. Don't try to rush through the park to get to everything even though it is very tempting. Take time to smell the roses!

Bring an extra T & thin shorts in case they get wet. So many wet rides & places to play in water. My kids love it while it's happening & then whine & cry afterwards because they are wet & uncomforable. I can't tell you the times I have had to buy a new outfit to shut them up. I'm smarter now & on days I know they will get wet I put them in a bathing suit top & wet shorts & pack dry stuff in my backpack.

Spend some time at the pool. Ok, maybe not all kids & parents would like this but we LOVE the pools. The theming & the slides. it's to nice to miss out on. Enjoy the resort some, you pay enough.

Pack some snacks in the parks. These help when waiting in line.

Take a stroller. This is a must if your kids are ages 6 & under in my opinion. If you can save those legs by letting them rest between rides it will pay off as the day progresses.

If you are out late, let them sleep in a little the next day. I don't mean until noon or something but don't set the alarm for 7 am. I've done this before & my kids are just exhausted by noon the next day.

Well, I've given more info than you probably wanted. Really it's a learning experience every time for me. I pick up something new every visit. :sun:

[ThinkTink]

If your child is scared :eek: of automatically flushing potties, bring the stickey-pad paper (at a loss for the real name :confused: ). You can stick it over the beam and then the potty won't flush till it's been removed :wink: .

My DD5 is scared of them and we will definately be bringing them for her. That way we don't both have to squeeze into the same stall :thumbs: .

We also found that buying one prize when we first got there (in our case it was ears) held down the "I wants" for awhile for us. She had already gotten something.

Brigitte

[Watchinherskip]

My daughter love to get autographs from the characters...pick one up before you leave for WDW...it was a great hit!

[BigThunder]

I noticed you've been to Wilderness Lodge and Port Orleans (Dixie Landings)...we're looking at both and wondering which you would recommend for staying with kids? I like that WL has balconies (somewher to go when they're sleeping) but heard bad reviews re:transportation from WL. Also, considering POFQ..sounds pretty & quiet, plus less $. Please let me know. Thanks.

I have never stayed at PO-FQ but have reservations there for this summer. What was Dixie Landings is now PO-Riverside. It is truly a lovely place & my favorite among the moderates. The pool is very fun, there is a playground, a gameroom & a nice large giftshop. The foodcourt is large & has a good variety but can get crowded. Also a nice "sit-down & be waited on" restaurant. The bus can be packed at PO & I have an issue with that. I hate crowded buses.

It is hard to compare PO to WL because it is just so nice! The grounds are gorgeous, the pool is beautiful & a whole lot of fun. Plus a playground & sandy beach. My kids had a blast just playing in the lobby. You have the bridge over the water that flows out into the pool, all the rocking chairs in front of the huge fireplace, all the totem poles. It's just lovely. Plus you can get (if available) bunk beds at WL which was a hit both times for my kids who don't have them at home. The rooms at WL are a little dark for me, just like the lobby. It doesn't bother me in the lobby but for some reason it does in the room. Can't explain. I haven't had problems with the buses at all while there that I can recall. I think since the Villas opened it has caused them to be a little more crowded but not too bad.

All in all, I know without a doubt my kids would pick WL over PO-R or PO-FQ. They just love the place. But if money is an issue, & it's always an issue with us, PO is a wonderful resort that you will not regret choosing by any means.

[disneykids]

Has anyone had any problems with your own stroller being taken? We were just wondering if we would need to bring a lock of some sort to the parks with us. We have a pretty nice double stroller for our kids and would hate to lose it.

[dizzyknee]

We used to bring our double stroller and we had a lock for it, but after awhile we stopped locking up and never had a problem. We also noticed that the double strollers that WDW had were easier to roll around and easier and faster for the kids to get in and out of. If your kids are very young having your own is nice but once the kids are both over 2 or 3 the Disney ones are very easy.

Upside for bringing your own:
1. use of stroller in airport
2. no rental fee or waiting in line at park

Downside for bringing your own:
1. Wear and tear in plane
2. Hassle to get on WDW bus, or WDW shuttle from parking lot
3. locking up, or fear of being stolen
4. Expense of buying a rain cover and putting it on when you park and it might rain, or getting your nice stroller all wet

[disneykids]

Thanks, we have not been to disney in almost 9 years and never with kids. This will be an interesting trip. Hopefully fun though. We already have a stroller cover for the rain and the stroller is one that has the extra seat in the back for a child to stand or sit, so it looks like a one child stroller.

Any other tips for kids would be great. I think we are planning on taking a break at lunch time and swimming or sleeping depending on how the kids are feeling. And we are going to the park on 2 days then taking a day off. So hopefully they will catch up on sleep that day.

What about good places to eat? Any ideas? We do have a breakfast planned at Animal Kingdom with Donald. The boys love him and Chip and Dale. So any other ideas would be great. My parents are also coming. So there will be 4 adults and 2 kids.

Thanks again.

[dizzyknee]

How old are your kids?

[disneykids]

I have 2 boys one is 4 (5 Dec. 23) and the other is 2 (3 Oct. 24). The 2 yr old is fearless. The 4 yr old takes his time and tries to figure out if things are cool or not or until his brother tries it first and lives!!! ;)

[dizzyknee]

You are going to have a great trip! What perfect ages for your first trip with kids. The best advice I can give you is to read about everything, really know what you want to do, and then be ready to throw out your whole plan and go with the flow, and let the kids lead the show.

I know that sounds crazy but the more you know the better b/c then when someone or something throws your plan a curve ball you will have a lot of other ideas to choose from.

You are very smart to plan to go back midday for a nap. It sounds like you are planning a relaxed trip which is great. Go there knowing you will not be able to see everything, then you just pick a park or two and do what you can. It is nice to know there is something to go back for. Your kids are the perfect ages for AK and MK.

If your one son is a bit cautious you might what to stay away from the show inside the Tree of Life at AK. It is a movie (Tough to be a Bug) that has lots of 3-D effects and some startling physical effects like blasts of air, fog or splatters of water. The other attractions in AK that might be scary all have height requirements that would keep you away. Be sure to find the Boneyard kids love the free play areas. Even though they eat up a lot of time the kids really love these places.

The food at AK has changed since we were there so I don't know what the new place is like, but we always enjoyed which ever counter service restaurant we were near. AK is big and we "went with the flow" and have eaten at Tusker house, Flametree, Pizzafari, and Rainforest Cafe. Pizzafari was my least favorite b/c I am a more adventurous eater. Rainforest takes a long time and is inconveniently located at the very front of the park, BUT it is nice and cool, so if you don't plan to go back to your hotel it is your best bet for a place to refresh make an ADR here.

Will you have a car? It is less exhausting to go back a forth when you don't have to wait for, and ride on, a bus. Where are you staying? When is your trip planned for?

MK has a lot to offer young kids, but there are a lot of dark attractions so if your son has an issue with darkness have a small flashlight with you that he can hold and point at the floor if he gets scared. Earplugs are also good to have, some rides are very loud. The 3-D movie in Fantasyland is wonderful, I don't think this would upset a sensitive child. Lots of kids have a hard time with SnowWhite b/c the witch is everywhere and it's dark. Pirates of the Caribbean is dark and has a lot of scariness for kids. Peter Pan dark/heights/and some scary scenes. I hope he can handle these rides b/c they are fun especially Peter Pan. Stitches Great Escape big NO!

Unless you are going at a very hot time of year and need lunch time to cool off I would say you should visit a counter service restaurant in what ever land you are in. Fantasyland we like Pinnochio Village Haus. Frontierland Pecos Bill Cafe. Tomorrowland Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe. We have always wanted to try El Pirata y el Perico but it is never open when we are there. If you are there for dinner and want to do something nicer Cinderella's Palace is nice (and at 4 and 2 it is probably your only chance to get boys to go there) or The Crystal Palace is a fun character meal (Winnie the Pooh and friends) and buffet.

I'll probably think of more later but hopefully I've given you somethings to think about for now.

[JuniorMickey]

Tusker House is now a table service buffet

[disneykids]

Neither of my kids mind loud noises or the dark. My oldest said he would try everything once and if he didn't like it then he wouldn't do it again, but we will just wait and see unitl we get there. I am not into torturing my kids onto a ride with them kicking and screaming. They are also pretty tall for their ages. My oldest is almost 45 inches tall and the youngest is 39 inches so we are pretty close to the height requirements for most of the rides. But like I said I will not force them to do something they do not want to do. I've seen that happen there before and I thought it was not really nice so I don't want to be the parent doing it.

Thanks for the food information we can really use that I just don't know what we are going to be looking for. We do have dinner at Trails End and also a Fantasmic Package.

We are staying off site at a condo. We just couldn't afford to stay on site. We did for our honeymoon and loved it. We were at Wilderness Lodge in 2000. It was great. As a kid we always stayed at the Poly, but we really couldn't afford that.

Well, we are getting a BIG storm so I have to go. Let me know if you think of any other good tidbits. Thanks again fo all the info.

Sara

[Tishypops]

Can I just ask people how you all handle it if you get on a ride and your child really starts to freak out half way round.
My eldest (will be 3 when we go) loved aladdin, its a small world and buzz light year at DLP but I am worried if I try her on somehting like haunted mansion or snow white and her really get upset.

[Alexasmom]

We had taken a special blanket for dd (3 at the time). And she would cover her eyes. She would put it on and take it off. I think the fact that she had some control had helped her. Now as an 8 year old, she refuses to go on Haunted Mansion. Maybe I will suggest her taken her blanket again:rotfl:

[Tishypops]

lol yea thats a good idea
We were having this discussion last night actually. My DHTB's boss has only just let his son (4) watch monsters inc and he is REALLY scared of it and wont sleep now. So we have let Abi watch pretty much any disney cartoon she wants to she just goes over to the shelf and picks one out and although she squeels and says "oh no he's coming mummy" about either randal or bruce in nemo she isnt really that phased by it all. I suggested that it because maybe when she first watched them she wasnt really old enough to understand that you should be scared of monsters and now that she is she has seen it that many times that she isnt phased at all.
So anyways getting to my point my DHTB says that we should prob just let my younger daughter (18 months at the time) just go on things like haunted mansion beacuse although it is dark we can just cuddle up to her and she wont really understand that ghosts are scary.
Am I being an awful mother if I do or does this make sense to anyone? I odnt want to scar her lmao

[pinkferret]

we took my DS on haunted mansion at 15 months and he couldnt have cared less where he was! he just loved the moving ride! he wasnt keen on the drop on POTC tho... i think you just need to try things. if they do freak out theres plenty to distract them with once you're off the ride.

[januk]

Can I just ask people how you all handle it if you get on a ride and your child really starts to freak out half way round.
My eldest (will be 3 when we go) loved aladdin, its a small world and buzz light year at DLP but I am worried if I try her on somehting like haunted mansion or snow white and her really get upset.

We took our 3 year old and our 6 month old on both hanuted mansion and snow white at xmas this year and they were both fine. We found that making light of the situation helped - we also didn't force the eldest to go on anything she was uncomfotable with - for her that was nothing at all though! We said about hanuted mansion it will be dark but really funny and we make a joke of the stretching room etc and just said isn't that funny etc all the way round and she loved it - wanted to go again. On the other hand my nephew who is 4 didn't like it and kept sunglasses on all the way round - it really depends on your child - you know them best. DD went on spiderman also and although she didn't understand it she wans't scared - just too little to see the point I think but we'll be going again next year when she'll be 5 and she can't wait to go on TOT!!! I guess we just have an adrenaline junkie!!:wink:

[Tishypops]

We took our 3 year old and our 6 month old on both hanuted mansion and snow white at xmas this year and they were both fine. We found that making light of the situation helped - we also didn't force the eldest to go on anything she was uncomfotable with - for her that was nothing at all though! We said about hanuted mansion it will be dark but really funny and we make a joke of the stretching room etc and just said isn't that funny etc all the way round and she loved it - wanted to go again. On the other hand my nephew who is 4 didn't like it and kept sunglasses on all the way round - it really depends on your child - you know them best. DD went on spiderman also and although she didn't understand it she wans't scared - just too little to see the point I think but we'll be going again next year when she'll be 5 and she can't wait to go on TOT!!! I guess we just have an adrenaline junkie!!:wink:

lol she will be on sheikra before you know it :wink: