Hey, I tried to post this a while back and it wouldn't work so if you've seen a similar post from me a few times I apologize. I am new to MW, and SOOO excited to be taking our first family vacation to disneyland in a few weeks. We will be in the parks April 2nd-4th. My hubby and I have been several times as we are both from California, but we live far away now and have never taken our children.
We have a 1 year old and a 3 year old. Any tips or advice for doing the parks with small kids? Anything we shouldn't miss?
Have a great time! Definately bring snacks for the kiddos and your own drinks. Take a break during the day. The kids will appreciate some downtime and so will you! - DisneyVacationLover
274.8 #782 2:19PM
Just be sure to take your time and take advantage of the rider swap/fast passes if you or your husband want to ride on the more adult sized rides. 3pm is about "melt down" time for youngins..be sure to give them their naps if they are used to taking them and allow the kids to choose what they want to do..dont plan too much and overwhelm them..that is not a fun thing to do. Since your children are small maybe try to go to Peter Pan and Dumbo first since those always seem to be super long lines and Autopia was my nephews favorite ride. Just a few tips ..hope this helps! - yellowtonka
237.7 #1137 2:33PM
We just got back and had my nephews with us that are the same ages as your kids. Naps were vital! Make sure they are getting some down time. If they fall asleep in their strollers just find a quiet place to relax while they get the needed rest. Don't be in a rush and enjoy the small stuff. They'll love it! - AKMouse
376.5 #364 2:34PM
We were there when our daughter was a year. Take advantage of the baby center. Disney jr. Live was awesome. The kids can get up and interact with the show. Bring snacks, take your time and enjoy the little moments. Have fun! - Fanatic4Disney
258.0 #925 2:36PM
Hello and welcome the only thing I recommend for first time and children visitors is to take it slow don't rush and just enjoy and embrace the Disney magic - disney_luv
131.6 #2562 3:05PM
Hi! I also have two kids: 3 & 1. We have APs, and have taken the kids into the parks about 12 times since November. The baby center can be helpful with the little one, if only for a quiet break. They also have tiny toilets, which my 3 year old loves. My biggest piece of advice for families with little ones is to plan out your day before going into the parks. Some days we'd go in early for Magic Morning, but knew we'd have to come back to the hotel early for rest. On the days we did the fireworks or WOC or Fantasmic, we'd either go into the parks later, or spend the afternoon at the hotel. We spent most of our trip in Fantasyland and Bug's World and any slower rides (trains, shows, etc.). I am a bug proponent of taking little ones into the park--many of my friends feel the opposite--but you just have to be very organized and prepared. - MommaMel
24.5 #4695 3:25PM
Thanks princessVanessa! I'm excited to be here. I've kinda been lurking the site for a couple weeks. I started off by downloading the app to help when we are in the park, then discovered the lounge through my phone. I can't wait to be there getting to enter some wait times and such.I know the week we are supposed to be there is a busy one, I wonder how busy it will be? - ccfam8785
215.5 #1407 1:43PM
Just pace yourself! I see a lot of families getting upset with each other and thier kids when its supposed to fun for all. Places like the tiki room, innoventions, the animation studio are great places to just take a break, cool down, and plan out where to go next. - madsdad
1124.9 #73 2:15PM
Oh get the apple fritters in NOS. They only have them during Lent. Hot chocolate & fritters. Yummy. - hawaiichick52
25.6 #4615 2:16PM
Hello, welcome, and enjoy your stay at the parks! ^_^ - sarahpie
275.3 #775 2:16PM
If you are bringing a stroller practice folding it down quickly. Never took kids that little but this is what I see people struggling with the most. - Nettenutt
325.9 #493 2:22PM
If you get the kids any kind of toy/balloon/hat/etc. in the park and it breaks... They will replace it for you for free! - SassyKittyMeow
358.1 #395 3:38PM
Very exciting!! I know how your feeling . I too grew up going to DL. But my sons have only been one time. We are planning their second trip for beginning of Auguest. 5 days in both parks. Their teenagers now so I can't really advise on your trip with your little ones . Just wantted to share in your excitement . Post when you have time at the park. ✨and welcome to MW! - My_HappyPlace
65.6 #3483 4:24PM