Traveling to Walt Disney World® with little ones is an experience you will remember your entire life but with little tots comes big planning. There are many things to consider and plan for when bringing your little prince or princess to the Disney© parks. Here you will find useful tips and helpful information to make your vacation with your little ones as magical as possible.
Things to Remember:
Keep in mind that children under the age of 7 must be accompanied by an adult to enter any Disney© theme park.
Children 10 years of age and under must be accompanied by an adult to enter any of Disney's Waterparks.
Any child under the age of 3 will get into the Disney© parks for FREE up until your child's 3rd birthday! So go ahead, take the little ones with you. You will make precious memories to last a lifetime.
Here are some frequently asked questions that might become useful during your Disney© vacation.
Do they offer Child Care?
Any guest on Disney property can partake in child care if staying at a Disney owned and operated resort. This service is available 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Please keep in mind, that this is NOT a child care service run by Disney. This service is called Kids Nite Out.You can gain more information and pricing by calling 1-407-828-0920 or by visiting their website at http://www.kidsniteout.com. If you are unsure ahead of time whether you would like to invest in this service, you can always visit the concierge desk at your resort located in the lobby for more information.
Does Disney offer Baby Care Centers?
While Disney does offer an area at each of the four theme parks for mommy and their little ones, keep in mind, this is not meant to be an all day daycare. The centers located at the four Disney parks are for parents with little children. Here you will find things like couches with feeding areas and rocking chairs. You will be able to take care of things like, prepare formulas, wash and warm bottles, and change your little one. You will also find things for purchase like pacifiers, diapers, a limited selection of baby food and more. They also show Disney films to keep the little ones occupied. Be sure to check your guide map for the location of baby care centers throughout the parks. Keep note that you will also find changing tables in most men and women bathrooms throughout the Disney parks.
What if I need a fridge in my room for my little one?
No worries! Most moderate and deluxe Disney resorts come equipped with a fridge already so you don't have to worry. If you get to your room and don't find one, call guest services to request it and make sure that they don't accidently charge you for it. (Most rooms should have it anyway) If you are staying at a value resort, you can rent one. The cost is generally around $10.00 per day. Be sure to make the request known when booking your Disney vacation so they can add it to your reservation ahead of time. Be sure to always call before you arrive to confirm any request you have made so everything can be taken care of for you before you arrive.
What happens if I run out of things like milk or need food after hours?
Keep in mind that resorts like the Polynesian, Contemporary, Grand Floridian and the Dolphin offer 24 hour snack bars for your convienence. If you are staying at a different resort and have your own transportation, their are a few grocery stores nearby, such as Goodings. For a small cab fee, you can make the short trip to get what you need. If all else fails, you can always contact Guest Services at your resort and tell them what you are needing. They will do their upmost best to accomidate you.
Oh no! I have run out of diapers!
Never fear, most resorts have at least one store where you can purchase these. Be sure to keep in mind if you are partial to brand name diapers, you may want to pack enough so you don't run out. Also, always bring along with you some waterproof ones. The fountains at Epcot and Downtown Disney make for a childs paradise during a hot steamy day.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when traveling with your little Prince or Princess!
Remember, fireworks can be very scary to a small child. The loud noise can be quite frightening. If your little one tends to not like loud noises, be prepared ahead of time to exit the park before the nighttime shows begin. Consider taking your child to see the light parade such as The Main Street Electrical Parade. This is amazement to the eyes of little ones and they can enjoy it without the loud sounds.
Be sure to bring along snacks in ziplock baggies for them to munch on through out the day. Once you are at the parks, you won't have to worry about finding that perfect toddler snack.
Bring something special from home. As a child, we all had that one special toy animal or blanket that made us feel secure. Your child is no different. Be sure to bring something from home that will make your child feel comfortable and safe during their Disney vacation.
Lastly, be sure to rest. Your little one won't be able to go as long as us adults can. Be sure to head back to your resort for an afternoon nap. This will be good for yourself and your little ones.