Disney Tips for Toddlers ~ 5 Things to Skip
Some Disney Must Do’s are Best Avoided for Littles
Need a few Disney tips for toddlers on an upcoming family vacation? What is the best age to bring kids to a Disney Park for the first time? That is a great question. The funny thing is that depending on YOUR family and your expectations, ANY age can be a great age!
We made a decision to wait until our kids were in grade school to bring them on their first trip to Disney World so they would actually remember the trip. Children younger than 4 or 5 can struggle to remember details of that once in a lifetime first meet up with Mickey. Sometimes when planning a trip with extended family and friends, waiting isn’t an option. Our granddaughter had her first trip to Disney at 17 months. While she doesn’t remember all the details, she loves all the photos that were taken.
Disney Tips ~ A Quick Guide to Understanding Ages
Bringing Children Under 3
Planning is key for a successful Disney Parks vacation with an infant. At this age, there are several positives to bringing the baby. One important Disney tip is children under three receive free admission to almost everything. Additionally, parents do not have to buy meals at restaurants for tiny tots. This is a huge deal if you have a little one who wants to meet Mickey or Pooh before they turn into three. The downside is bringing everything needed for a baby (car seat, food, diapers, medications, crib etc.). And forget any late-night fireworks spectaculars…unless you bring Nana and Papa (or other trusted caregiver).
Exploring Disney as a Preschooler ~ Ages 3 to 5
Disneyland and Walt Disney World seemed to be designed for this imaginative age group. Every special show on Disney+ comes to life whether you love Mickey, Pooh or Toy Story. However, it is extremely stimulating so even the most well-behaved kids will have meltdowns. There are memories to be made but parents have to pack their patience along with snacks.
Grade Schoolers LOVE Disney Magic ~ Ages 6-12
Whether your kids love animals, cartoons, trains or water, there is a plethora of things to explore at Disney Parks. Around age 6, kids can deal with late nights for fireworks, unexpected downpours notorious in Disney World and long waits to see their favorite characters. Sure, there will be a hangry meltdown now and then, but the magical sights and sounds of the parades and attractions are really appreciated at this age. They love everything from the Mickey shaped food to pin trading with cast members.
Teenagers Totally Love or Tolerate Disney ~ Ages 13-18
Whether your teen loves or tolerates a trip to Disney is up to how you plan. Find out what will be most interesting to your teenager, whether favorite restaurants, water parks, or a special tour or event. Most teens prefer late night experiences to waking up before dawn, so be open to staying for late hours.
Nana T’s Disney Tips for Toddlers ~ Five Things to Avoid at Disney Parks
- Mickey Bars ~ Everyone wants to enjoy a Mickey Shaped Ice Cream but navigating eating these on a sunny day in Florida is tough for adults. Alternatively opt for a Mickey shaped sharable pastry or ice cream with sprinkles in a dish.
- Character Dining ~ This is a tough one. The characters move quickly from table to table and don’t have time to wait for a shy toddler to get over nerves. The meals are pricey and pictures might not be as expected. Instead, consider scheduling a meeting via the My Disney Experience app for a more personalized meeting.
- Pin Trading ~ For kids under three, Disney pins and lanyards just aren’t safe. However, children 4-5 years old would really enjoy interacting with cast members and trading for special souvenirs. But avoid trading with other park goers. Many serious pin collectors could take advantage of less savvy traders no matter their age. (We speak from experience on this one.)
- Dining at Teppan Edo in EPCOT ~ This experience is best for those over 6 years old. The extremely hot grill and shared experience with other park guests could be intimidating to young shy children. Consider a more family friendly dining experience like Chef Mickey’s.
- Early Morning Rope Drop ~ This is a great way to experience a short line, if your family likes standing and speedwalking to attractions. But toddlers don’t like to be rushed. This strategy could be setting your family up for a long unmagical day. Plan leisurely less stressful starts when toddlers are in tow. There is no way to see everything in one trip to a Disney Park so enjoy a slower pace and plan a second visit to do more in the future.
- Did a Disneyland Souvenir Spark Disney Pin Trading of Today? - September 9, 2024
- Disney Tips for Toddlers ~ 5 Things to Skip - September 6, 2024
- Disney Dog Pluto ~ Mickey’s Beloved Pup - September 2, 2024
