This makes me upset!

[Moonstorm]

My family is planning a trip to WDW in May of 2008. My mom, my MIL, my grandma, my hubby, me and our 3 kids (ages will be 5, 2 1/2, 1 1/2 at the time of the trip)
People my hubby works with are telling him that our kids are *not old enough* to go to WDW and it will be more frustrating than fun. GRRRRR
First of all, yes, I understand 3 kids 5 and under will be trying at times, but if we plan things correctly and follow their lead for the most part, we should be fine. My grandma will be 85 and my mom has a bothersome knee so it's not like we'd be sailing through WDW if we weren't taking the kiddos.

I told my DH that I just want a nice family trip. We can go again in a few years when the kids are older, but I don't see any *issues* with going next year!

[jpeka65844]

DON'T listen to them! It's your vacation, after all.

We just recently took DS, 1 yr 4 mos, and while it wasn't always pleasant, we wouldn't have done it any other way. Look at it this way, it's a chance for you to enjoy WDW w/o having to pay for them yet!

AND, you've got plenty of other adults to help out. With DH and I, we got a little stressed at times. Having a G'ma or a GG'ma there might REALLY ease the pressure......

Don't listen to the nay-sayers and HAVE FUN!



Denice T.
Olathe, KS

[ChrisAlli]

Igonore them!!!!

Our first trip with kids mine were 21 months and 3 1/2. They had a great time. Then we went the following year, had a great time and now we're going back in two weeks. They are now 3 and 5. They still remember things, especially from last year and love it.

realize that things will take longer, and you can't do everything, things will be great.

You're never too young or old for WDW!!!!!

You're going to have great memories

[kandmsmom]

I hate to be a downer, but I agree with your husband's co-workers. There is not a lot to do for children that age, so why spend the money?? They won't even remember the trip. Kids that age enjoy McDonald's play place for the price of a kiddie cone.

[eyeheartgoofy]

Oh, poo-poo on the naysayers!!! We took our kids for their first trip when they were 18 months and 3 1/2 years old. We heard the same thing from everyone, but we ended up with a great trip. As long as you know what to expect and don't expect too much from your kids in terms of touring, you will be fine.

[maxtomsmom]

I agree with the other posters. You will see lots of children who range in all sorts of ages. When going to WDW there are 2 ways to look at it - 1. when they are young it is very magical (in my eyes it is always magical, but you know what I mean). My DS5 truly believes he met the Power Rangers and the Kim Possible. In addition, my younger DS who was only two at the time believed Gipetto (sorry about the spelling) was coming home with us and wanted to know where his Grandpa was:lmao: because Gipetto (again the spelling, it's getting late here) was following him and very funny. Everything is so wonderful and real.

2. When they are older, they can appreciate some of the stories behind the rides, the more thrill rides. It is still wonderful just different.

BTW- I remember my first trip to WDW when I was 4. I remember getting my first purse with a beaded Mickey and Minnie made out of leather. I still have it. I remember picking it out. I also remember the Haunted Mansion with the ghosts. :scared1: Wouldn't look in the mirror for a week according to my mom.

So I say go and enjoy. Plan well, be flexible and know that if you miss something, it gives you reason to go back. Worked in our case got to go two years in a row.:cool1:

[Rowlf]

Kandmsmom, have you even been to WDW with a little one? We took our DS for the first time when he was 15 months old, and we've gone each September since then. (I just booked free dining this year for his fourth trip!) The trip certainly had its challenges when he was little, but we all had such a great time even when he was so young. Believe it or not, Epcot was his favorite - he loved dancing to all of the musicians and watching the performers around World Showcase. He was even the star of the show with the mime in France! We've gone for just four nights each time, staying concierge, which has been WAY worth it for us to always have snacks available and to have someone to help us with any issues. The short amount of time there seems to be just right. We try not to have any expectations other than having a good time; I took him to MNSSHP last year and it was just too late and too much for him. Learned THAT lesson...

Each year has been completely different, but always a blast for the whole family. It's a real yardstick for us on how much he has grown each year. And, at almost 4, he now goes to bed every night saying he's going to dream about Disney World (well, he calls it Florida, but that's all he knows of Florida!).

[disney_fan_fam]

Are they paying for the trip????? Umm no! ;) :laughing:

Why spend the money????....because we can......:rotfl2: :woohoo:


Don't listen to them :hug:

[LuluLovesDisney]

Don't even let it cross your mind. Yes, three kids that age is trying - but it would be just as trying at home, on the beach or at the zoo, why not go to WDW and let those trying times become timeless memories?

I *do* think a mom of young ones has to devote extra time to planning, and you have to be careful to still allow them naps and relaxing play and not constant overstimulation but you can still have a fabulous vacation.

I've mentioned this on the DIS before, but I will say it again. I first went to WDW at age 3. YES, I do remember some things (The "girl" bear coming down from the ceiling in the COuntry Bear Jamboree, the hotel pool, drinking OJ out of an orange shaped cup, the predecessor of "Food Rocks" with singing milk and eggs, seeing the castle, etc.) I became a Disney fan, a Disney College Program CM and am hoping to have a Disney Wedding one day. I sure am glad my parents decided to take me when I was "too young"! :)

Have a fabulous vacation!!!

My family is planning a trip to WDW in May of 2008. My mom, my MIL, my grandma, my hubby, me and our 3 kids (ages will be 5, 2 1/2, 1 1/2 at the time of the trip)
People my hubby works with are telling him that our kids are *not old enough* to go to WDW and it will be more frustrating than fun. GRRRRR
First of all, yes, I understand 3 kids 5 and under will be trying at times, but if we plan things correctly and follow their lead for the most part, we should be fine. My grandma will be 85 and my mom has a bothersome knee so it's not like we'd be sailing through WDW if we weren't taking the kiddos.

I told my DH that I just want a nice family trip. We can go again in a few years when the kids are older, but I don't see any *issues* with going next year!

[Honeymooner04]

I say go. It such a wonderful experience for YOU to see your children's reactions and they'll have a great time. We leave in a few days with my 14 month old for her 2nd trip to the world. I have a ball. And my canned response to the busybodies who find the need to inform me that my daughter "will never remember it and it's a waste of money" is that I will remember it and those memories are priceless. Vacations should never be just for 1 person in the group. We go to Disney because we ALL enjoy it, not just for the kids. Have a great time!!!

By the way, if you can't tell this is a hot topic with me. I just have a problem with people who feel the need to play Debbie Downer on other people's vacation plans. I don't go around telling people how boring it sounds to go to Hawaii year after year and just sit on a beach - not my idea of a good time - but to each his own. I think you'll have a great time.

[yrdlyprincess]

YOU DO WHAT YOU WANT TO!! Hey my own mother said that she thought that my DS2 1/2 (alomst 3) @ time of trp was to young to go, also that I shouldn't take DD7 out of school -both of my parents were teachers!! So you do what is right for YOU (not anyone else) OR MAYBE iT IS JUST A PENNSYLVANIA THING!!!

[tripplanner]

We started taking the kids when they were toddlers. We had an amazing time and have gone once or twice every year since. They are teenagers now and it's still our favorite place to go. It sounds like you aren't planning comando style days in the park. You'll be fine and you'll have some great memories.

[brymolmom]

I'm not a believer in the 'they won't remember it' theory...

Really, my kids won't remember the trip to the beach OR to the park playground OR to the baseball games in another 2 or 5 or 10 years down the road - does that mean that until kids are 'old enough' that they should just sit in the house?? Kids have fun and enjoy themselves for this moment - isn't that enough? Isn't that why we spend quality time together as a family? There's no age requirement for that, right?

[Moonstorm]

Hi jpeka65844 =)

It certainly has made my DH rethink the trip, which upsets me! You're right, there will be 5 adults to handle 3 kids! I am sure well be fine.

[twinspluscade]

I hate to be a downer, but I agree with your husband's co-workers. There is not a lot to do for children that age, so why spend the money?? They won't even remember the trip. Kids that age enjoy McDonald's play place for the price of a kiddie cone.

"Not a lot to do for children that age" ?!! :lmao:

Try telling that to my 4,4 and 3 year olds;) .

WDW by far has more things to do for very young children than most other vacation destinations.

[Moonstorm]

hey ChrisAlli!
I told my DH we wouldn't be going at light speed anyway with my mom and grandma along! LOL
I really think it will be fine but now my DH is rethinking the trip b/c of this. UGH

[Disneytwinz]

I'll tell you what, my nephew still talks about Disney World and all the fun he had when he was age 2 and he's now age 4 1/2. It was a memorable trip for him. I would pay them no mind and go have fun. You know your family best. If you miss some things you will know to hit on your next trip. :goodvibes

[Moonstorm]

Well kandmsmom, I honestly can say I don't see your point. I know they may not remember the trip, then again, my first trip to WDW was when I was 8 or 9 and I don't really remember that trip unless I look at pictures.
I think 5 adults can handle 3 kids and I think it'd be a very nice family vacation.

[Moonstorm]

Hi eyeheartgoofy!
I told my DH that yes, there will be times it may get frustrating, but if we, as the adults, decide to take things slow and not try to jam every little thing into this one trip, we'll ALL be just fine!

[Moonstorm]

Hey maxtomsmom =)
See, I agree with you. My kids will *believe* most/all they see at WDW and that is what makes it magical. Yes I will definitely want to take them again when they are older but I think now is such a wonderful time in their lives as well to enjoy WDW.

[purplepixie]

The first time we took our kids we went with friends. Between us we had five girls ages 5,4,4,2, and 1. It was a blast. My youngest was the 1 yr old. She may not remember it now that she's six, but she loves looking at the pictures. My oldest was one of the 4 yr olds. She remembers parts of it. It was great seeing my older one's face since she really believed that we were seeing Mickey and Minnie. My younger one said Mickey for every character we saw. Every age enjoys it differently, but they all enjoy it.

[Moonstorm]

disney_fan_fam,
I agree, we're spending the $ b/c we can and we want to!!! =)

[Moonstorm]

Wow LuluLovesDisney! So many experiences! I hope you get your Disney dream wedding!!!

I am trying my best to plan an easy time. We've already planned on staying at either the Poly or CR so we can use the monorail since I kow we'll be mostly in the world or epcot. I definitely agree that no matter where we vacation, 3 kids at those ages will be tough at times!

[Moonstorm]

Hi there Honeymooner04 =)

I agree and that's what i told my DH, that this is a FAMILY vacation! WE will remember and they will have pictures/videos to look back on. AND, who saays we can't go back again when they're older?!

[maxtomsmom]

Hey maxtomsmom =)
See, I agree with you. My kids will *believe* most/all they see at WDW and that is what makes it magical. Yes I will definitely want to take them again when they are older but I think now is such a wonderful time in their lives as well to enjoy WDW.

Wait till you go a second time, then you hear, "What you're going again?" That is when DH and I go into our selective hearing mode and we say huh a lot. :lmao: That sometimes does the trick.

[Moonstorm]

hey yrdlyprincess! Are you in Pa???

I told my DH, this is OUR decision and OUR trip...it's irritating to hear other people tell me what my kids will/will not enjoy!

[Moonstorm]

Hi there tripplanner =)
Wow, you guys go often!!!! I love to be able to go every 3-5 years if we can!

I am really trying to plan reasonable days and lots of downtime!

[Moonstorm]

Well put, brymolmom!
I can tell you that I can't remember some things that happened last week, last month! Guess I'm not old enough yet to go to WDW then??? LOL

[Moonstorm]

Good point Disneytwinz, we will just have to go again when the kids are older! =)

[bumbershoot]

...drinking OJ out of an orange shaped cup, the

Ack! Ack! You've just triggered a memory! An orange shaped cup....I think I got one of those too!

I remember almost nothing from high school, very little (but feeling bad about myself) from junior/middle school (the school switched from Junior to Middle the summer after 7th grade), very little from elementary school...almost nothing but rowing Crew from college....does that mean I shouldn't have done those things?

Heck, I barely remember my own honeymoon cruise, because I slept through most of it (got pregnant wedding night, the week before, and had symptoms like exhaustion within a WEEK), and I have to rely on DH for info on what we did! Should I not have gone on my honeymoon?????


Just like DH remembers what I do not, a parent will remember what the child does not. Did my son seem to remember his first trip at just over 1? I don't think so. Did it enrich his life? Did he have fun? Did WE have fun? YES!!!! And he DOES remember his second trip at just over 2.

Plus!!! He's been free for two trips! TWO of your kids will be free! Can hardly beat that! You'd have to feed them at home, so food costs don't count, and even if you left them at home you'd bring them souvenirs so that doesn't count.


Co-workers are ridiculous. All of us, those who work outside the home, don't, but those other ones, the ones not on Dis, they spout nonsense and should not be listened to. Oh, and when you get back, full of love and wonder and joy from your trip, they won't listen to you, just like DH's co-workers never listened to him telling them how wonderful cloth diapers (according to them, the work of the devil and so disgusting they stopped using them within days) are and how easy they were, nor did they care to listen to us tell them that our boy potty learned, with no help from us early into his 2s and we put the kudos for that right onto cloth dipes (and family bed)... When co-workers are wrong, they won't listen. So don't be saddened by this.

Do, however, plaster your cubicle, if you have such a thing, with 8x10s of your children having fun at Disney. (you can imagine the pictures at DH's cubicle, from my comparison) :goodvibes

[Moonstorm]

Hi purplepixie!
Yes, the photos/videos help them remember and I honestly can't wait to see their faces light up when they see the characters!

[Jetsong]

My son was 3 when I first took him...he is now 22 and still loves Disney. Our experience was great....The look in his eyes when he saw the characters and Micky....was priceless. I will always remember the first trip as the best. He even liked Epcot. We stayed at the Contempory tower, lake side and his favorite thing of the entire trip was the water parade on the lake...He had to stay up every night to see it. He still loves the Tiki birds.:thumbsup2 Just make sure you have a stroller and nap time. we had a rule...first sign of being cranky...we left for a swim or nap...that was for me too..even adults get cranky. Go and have a great time...remember to slow down and don't try to do everything...Disney will be there tomorrow:woohoo:

[Moonstorm]

UGH maxtomsmom...People can drive ya nuts, huh??
I am sure when we decide to go again we'll hear what you guys hear!

[Moonstorm]

Hi Jetsong =)
It's wonderful to hear how your son loved his first trip there. We've already decided to stay at The Poly or CR and I am NOT opposed to naps or pool time!

[MINNIE OF TWO MICE]

I say GO!!!! My first reason is because not all children have the chance to go anywhere with Mom, Grandmom, and Greatgrandmom. That in itself is priceless. We are fairly young and between DH,me and children we have my Granddad and my mother. Secondly, they have the electrical vehicles to rent if Grandmom or Greatgrandmom have trouble getting around. They will have a truly magical time. They also have strollers that you can rent by the day or week. We took our friends one year old last year and it was our best trip yet!!!! He was so excited when he saw the characters and fireworks. Bless his heart, he was so stimulated for five days, he was probably ticked off his first night back home and no fireworks!!!! If they get tired let them take a nap early afternoon so they dont miss the parades and fireworks. The best parade and on the do not miss list is the spectromagic. It is fun for the whole family. Go and have a great time.........you wont regret it!!!!!!

[Moonstorm]

Hi MINNIE OF TWO MICE!
I think you're right, we'll go! I mean, it isn't as though what other people say determines what we we will do in the end, but, it did have my DH rethinking things =/
I told my DH that my grandma will be 85, As of right now, she is in good health and gets around fairly well, but hey, anything could happen and she may not be here too many more years, we need to enjoy the family time now =)

[Juliet25]

I'm not a believer in the 'they won't remember it' theory...

Really, my kids won't remember the trip to the beach OR to the park playground OR to the baseball games in another 2 or 5 or 10 years down the road - does that mean that until kids are 'old enough' that they should just sit in the house?? Kids have fun and enjoy themselves for this moment - isn't that enough? Isn't that why we spend quality time together as a family? There's no age requirement for that, right?

My thoughts exactly! I wonder if all those in "they won't remember it" chorus just sit at home and stare at a wall until the age of memory making begins. :lmao:

Besides, regardless of whether DD4 remembers WDW, *I'll* sure remember the first time she saw Goofy moments after arriving in the BC lobby. I thought she'd find the characters scary, but it was love at first site -- she rushed over to Goofy and gave him a big hug. She absolutely *loves* Goofy now.

[LoveMyDisneyCats]

:rotfl2: Laughing my head off at the ridiculousness...I can't tell you how many times I have gotten into conversations about taking my kids. I used to get so defensive, but now I "try" to let to non-disney people get to me. My DDs started going when they were 5 mo. and 2 mos. and have gone every 3-6 months since then. They remember things better than DH (30 years old) does. I was astonished when talking to DD(2) about "favorite rides" and she said "pooh" and I asked her why and she said "goes up/down" and "pooh get stuck" (for anyone that hasn't been on that ride- she totally knew what she was talking about!).
Maxtomsmom- thought that was funny about wait til they ask why taking again! The looks I get when I say we go so much....
Ya know what though- it's our $$ and WE remember. DH, me & the girls are so busy and WDW is "our" place to go and have special times together. We relive our trip all the time! Every trip is better than the last and different as they grow. My neighbors are waiting until the kids are 7 & 9 and ya know what- by then they know that it's not the "real" Cinderella...And the fireworks are just a little less amazing...And the cute, but slow rides will be boring...(not to my disney family- nothing there will ever be boring)...You know what I mean though. For people like that, I think they will miss out on some of the magic and wonder that only young children still have. I can't wait til they get home and say they wasted the money going because the kids would have rather gone to Universal and done the "thrill" rides. Wow- will I be doing my "I told you so" laugh then....

PS- I'm not ignoring that young kids are a little more work...diapers, tired & whiny, etc. But IMO- it's not that big of a deal. In fact, my kids are less trouble at WDW then at home because THEY'RE AT WDW!

[scrappingtwinmom]

If it's the only trip you are ever going to take to Disney :rotfl: then wait. If you plan to go again (of COURSE) then by all means go now. They'll become seasoned Disney Veterans and you'll still have a fabulous time.

[allison443]

You seem to have realistic expectations so I think you will have a great time!
Ask your husband not to repeat his co-workers comments to you anymore, because it is making you upset!

[MNWDWMANIAC]

I don't buy into the "they won't remember idea either". My oldest boys went when they were 2 and 3. They remember bit and pieces. But it's not just about them is it? Pictures they see later will be a great gift them to them. Seeing the looks they will get on their faces with all they will encounter will be priceless for you as a parent. Take them, enjoy the moment.

Our youngest son will be 14 months when we go in Oct. I wouldn't let him miss the trip for the world. My older boys will be riding rides like maniacs. My wife and I will enjoy playing the baby swap game. Which in turn will work out for my older boys because they will get double doses on the rides we swap on. My youngest will get to meet and take pictures with people he will grow up to love. Just because he won't remember the trip like we do doesn't mean it's not as magical or important to him.

[powellrj]

I am going to be the downer here.

I would really re-think the trip or at least change it a little.

I have really bad knees (1 TKR and will have the other replaced soon) and Disney is hard with my teens let alone trying to keep up with 3 little ones under 6.

Have you thought about renting EVCs for your DM and DGM? It will be hard to handle EVCs and strollers, but it will really make the trip much more enjoyable. I used one on my last trip and I am not sure I would have made it without one.

Disney is hard under the best of circumstances and I think it would help to have another adult to help with the older adults and that would leave you guys free to take care of the kids.

[aaronandterri]

Hi

Before our last trip in end of 2004, i was worried my son 18 months was too young, my others were 7 and 5 , and the right age for it, but i nedent have worried, he loved it, id say he enjoyed it the most actually!!

he lapped it all up, was old enough to go on alot of stuff as well with us, he loved the character meals, we had to keep booking more and more,,,i can still remember him now saying lady lady calling them back to the table at the meals, the trip was a real joy, and he still loves to look at photos and now at 4 he is soo excited about going again.
:woohoo:
But i also had another suprise so now we have jamiepirate: 9 jessica princess: 8 while away jack pirate: 4 and alex pirate: nearly 2 (actually concieved in disney lol)
and im not worried one litle bit i know hell love it all......well the plane from the uk is a bit more troublesome but hey the price you pay for 3 weeks of bliss!!

So ignore all the bores, you must be doing something right to manage 3 under 5 anyway, so have fun, these are the memory makers.!:banana:

(ohh remember to get one of those photos in the soft toy racks where you sit the youngest among all the teddys, my kids love those pics xx)

[aaronandterri]

PS- I'm not ignoring that young kids are a little more work...diapers, tired & whiny, etc. But IMO- it's not that big of a deal. In fact, my kids are less trouble at WDW then at home because THEY'RE AT WDW!
__________________
i totally agree!!!!

[CrzyforPiglet]

Terri - our Alex is 18 months and also our little Disney souvenier

As for the naysayers - I agree with majority and say pooh to them! Expectations are everything and as long as you are realistic in your expectations you'll have a great time. We've already taken our son at 6 and 13 months and no he doesn't remember but what we love best is seeing him "grow up" through Disney. Like on his first trip he didn't really do much but at 13 months he was much more alert and loved the rides but was scared of the characters. We're going again right before his 2nd birthday and I can't wait to see what he is like at Disney then. DH and I did the park commando thing for several years so it is nice to kinda be forced to stop and see the small magical things. We're also thinking of another trip with my mom in 2008 mainly b/c she has bad knees and we figure she's not getting any younger but it would be nice to have her spend time with her grandson in such a magical place. We've already talked about getting her a scooter so you may want to look into too. Have fun on your trip!

[IcePrincess467]

My family is planning a trip to WDW in May of 2008. My mom, my MIL, my grandma, my hubby, me and our 3 kids (ages will be 5, 2 1/2, 1 1/2 at the time of the trip)
People my hubby works with are telling him that our kids are *not old enough* to go to WDW and it will be more frustrating than fun. GRRRRR
First of all, yes, I understand 3 kids 5 and under will be trying at times, but if we plan things correctly and follow their lead for the most part, we should be fine. My grandma will be 85 and my mom has a bothersome knee so it's not like we'd be sailing through WDW if we weren't taking the kiddos.

I told my DH that I just want a nice family trip. We can go again in a few years when the kids are older, but I don't see any *issues* with going next year!

Well then your DH co-workers would be yelling at me. I am planning on bringing a 10 month old to disney. I don't have a baby yet, but I LOVE disney and DH & I are starting to go annually and just becuase a baby comes into the picture I am not gonna change that! I know that sounds selfish, but when you go to disney, you see kiddies ranging from 3-4 months all the way up! As long as you plan breaks and what not accordingly you should be fine!! :banana:

[Rustysmom]

I think you should go and enjoy yourselves! You probably won't get to see everything, but you'll still have a great time. And you'll have your grandma, mom, and MIL to help you with the kids. Have a great time!

[mjkaferle5]

I hate to be a downer, but I agree with your husband's co-workers. There is not a lot to do for children that age, so why spend the money?? They won't even remember the trip. Kids that age enjoy McDonald's play place for the price of a kiddie cone.


I am sure glad that my wife and I don't feel the same as you do about Disney!! This past summer our boys were 8, 5, 5, and 1. Each and every one of us had a blast. Maybe they won't all remember the trip but my wife and I will. We will remember the fun experiences they had and how much fun we had with them. Disney is awesome because there is fun for all ages.

And sure, my kids enjoy McDonald's play place. But ask them if they would rather go to McDonald's or Disney World. The answer will be a resounding Disney World!!

[susieq76]

Hi! I have taken three kiddos under 5. Three times. The first time my twins went they were just 11 months (and I was prego w/ the 3rd). Do they remember it... Nope. Do DH and I? Yep. Worth every penny & every poopy stop.

Our second trip the twins were two 1/2 and the baby one. I surely didn't expect them to remember a thing. Guess what? When we were planning trip #3 (past Feb) I asked the boys what they wanted to do and they remembered things! Things like Its a Small World is in a boat and the dolls sing. And that they swung napkins with the characters at dinner (Chef Mickeys).

Now we're planning a trip in Sept (I just couldn't resist :) ) and the boys are planning out what order they want to do the rides and WHERE they want to eat (the 5 year olds- the almost 4 year old remembers the rides a lot too but just kinda agrees with his brothers about what when etc)

For us, WDW is a big thing. I spend months getting my kids to make lists (w/ me writing of course) and just having family discussions all the time about it. For a mom with two PDD/autistic kids and a child with an auditory processing thing Disney gives us tons to talk about. And they don't even realize I'm working on their articulation and social skills b/c they just love it so much!

Trust me- even if THEY don't remember it- you will! And then you'll be able to share it with them.

Sue

[mjkaferle5]

My thoughts exactly! I wonder if all those in "they won't remember it" chorus just sit at home and stare at a wall until the age of memory making begins. :lmao:

Besides, regardless of whether DD4 remembers WDW, *I'll* sure remember the first time she saw Goofy moments after arriving in the BC lobby. I thought she'd find the characters scary, but it was love at first site -- she rushed over to Goofy and gave him a big hug. She absolutely *loves* Goofy now.


Good call Juliet. Just when does the age of memory start?:rotfl2:

My wife and I went to Disney World for our honeymoon in '95. Although I remember a lot of things, I can't remember everything that happened on that trip. Maybe we shouldn't have gone!:rotfl2: Heck I was 25 at the time, and still didn't achieve my full age of memory.:rotfl: :rotfl:

[boomhauer]

People tell me all the time my wife and I are crazy taking our 10 month old twins in December. I could care less. Sure, they may not remember it, but that doesn't mean we won't. I can't wait to see the looks on their faces.

It'd be one thing I suppose if you decided to only make 1 trip to Disney when your kids were that young and never go back. But like I tell everyone, we go every year so there is plenty of time to go when they'll remember. Doesn't mean we should not go in the meantime.

[happygirl]

Go and have fun, My kids were 3 and 2 when we went last year, they had they time of there lives and my little girl still remembers alot

[4eyedbuzzard]

If Walt wanted to make a park for adults he would have built in Vegas. Young children are "maintenance intensive" no matter where you are - including home. And while they may not remember much of it from that age when older, they will experience it in the present and remember it for many years while growing.

Go and have fun.

[kaysmommie]

I hate to be a downer, but I agree with your husband's co-workers. There is not a lot to do for children that age, so why spend the money?? They won't even remember the trip. Kids that age enjoy McDonald's play place for the price of a kiddie cone.

Actually there is alot for 2 1/2 year olds to do in Disney and not everyone likes Mcdonalds germ place :eek: . My DD was 2.5 on our first family trip and we had a great time. She was able to ride everything but the coasters and Test trach at that time. She loved the characters and fantasyland as well as the parades. We even went to Blizzard Beach and there was kiddie rides there too. I think that was our best trip. She loved the parades too. ALso MGM has alot of kid friendly shows like Playhouse Disney, Little Mermaid, Muppet 3D, Beauty & the Beast and she loved the Honey I shrunk the kids playground. The only thing she could not go on was TOT and RnRC so we did babyswap for those. We even had fun at Epcot. There is not alot for the 1 1/2 to do but she can ride alot of rides with you and will probably enjoy all the sights. Your 5 YO will have a blast this trip and the little ones will get to ride the bigger rides when they are older. It's not like your taking them to Universal where there is only a few kiddie things to do there. Disney has so much for preschool age children. Take lots of pics and video of your little ones :) .

[*KeepMovingForward*]

My family is planning a trip to WDW in May of 2008. My mom, my MIL, my grandma, my hubby, me and our 3 kids (ages will be 5, 2 1/2, 1 1/2 at the time of the trip)
People my hubby works with are telling him that our kids are *not old enough* to go to WDW and it will be more frustrating than fun. GRRRRR
First of all, yes, I understand 3 kids 5 and under will be trying at times, but if we plan things correctly and follow their lead for the most part, we should be fine. My grandma will be 85 and my mom has a bothersome knee so it's not like we'd be sailing through WDW if we weren't taking the kiddos.

I told my DH that I just want a nice family trip. We can go again in a few years when the kids are older, but I don't see any *issues* with going next year!

I think you should just go and forget what DH's coworkers are saying. They are probably just JEALOUS that he and his family are going to Disney. Sounds to me like you will have plenty of help. My parents took me a month after WDW opened and took me back twice a year until I married and had a family of my own to take. For the trips I was too young to remember, I have photos and my parents have wonderful memories and stories to tell of those trips.

2 of my kids have ADHD and developmental issues and I was prepared for the worst when I took them...they were absolute angels. I don't think that kids are any more a handful at WDW than they are at home-they may even be better at WDW like mine were for me. 5 adults and 3 kids...that should be a piece of cake, even with some mobility issues (that's what ECV's and wheelchairs are for). Little kids don't normally do commando touring anyway! Have fun and don't listen to those other folks. :dance3:

[ChrisAlli]

hey ChrisAlli!
I told my DH we wouldn't be going at light speed anyway with my mom and grandma along! LOL
I really think it will be fine but now my DH is rethinking the trip b/c of this. UGH

By taking your time and seeing things most others skip, will make your trip even better.

There are so many things to do and see, it's just not all about go go go go and big thrill rides.

I could list so many things, plus if you and your husband want to ride something BIG, you have extra hands to keep the little ones.

My husband had people tell him he was crazy the first time we went, again with a 21 month and 3 year old. Well we went back the next year and we were just there 7 months ago and we're going in two weeks. It's the best vacation with the kids. They love it !!!!!

[hematite153]

I agree with the majority of respondents.

We just invited friends along on a free dining trip. Their DD will be 18 months at the time. Whether she remembers the trip or not, they will remember her reactions.

Young ones can be difficult anywhere. Why limit where you go because of it?

My guess is that with 5 adults and 3 really little ones you'll actually be able to go on more of the "adult" rides (using baby swap) than you will in 3-4 years when your kids want to run the show.

I do agree with those who suggested the stroller/ECV pre-thought. Depending upon the size of your kids, you may be able to get all 3 of them in the rented double strollers. If not, think through a plan that would allow you to have the 5 yo riding sometimes and the extra stroller folded and hanging from something at other times. Perhaps the older adults would do well to share a single ECV. That way you could count on having more walking adults than kids and they would all get a break.

Test it out by going for a family walk some weekend a couple of months before the trip. Get a sense of who wears out first and how far they can go. Even if you go at the pace of the little ones, they will likely sleep in the stroller at some point and the adults may be the ones who wear out first.

Have a GREAT trip!

[grlpwrd]

I took my 6mo dd who is now 9yo when we were a family of 5. Memories are captured through photos and stories we tell to her.

Have fun!

[xipetotec]

My family is planning a trip to WDW in May of 2008. My mom, my MIL, my grandma, my hubby, me and our 3 kids (ages will be 5, 2 1/2, 1 1/2 at the time of the trip)
People my hubby works with are telling him that our kids are *not old enough* to go to WDW and it will be more frustrating than fun. GRRRRR
First of all, yes, I understand 3 kids 5 and under will be trying at times, but if we plan things correctly and follow their lead for the most part, we should be fine. My grandma will be 85 and my mom has a bothersome knee so it's not like we'd be sailing through WDW if we weren't taking the kiddos.

I told my DH that I just want a nice family trip. We can go again in a few years when the kids are older, but I don't see any *issues* with going next year!


Well I can't speak for the 1 1/2, but people said that about my youngest the first time we took them. He was 3 years old ( with siblings being 6 and 9 respectively ) and I have to say that I think HE enjoyed it the most. Things like the Magic Kingdom are TRULY magic for someone that age!! The wonder in his eyes!! It was just... wow... and that brings me to my next point.

People always say "Oh but they're too young, they won't remember it" ... SO!? They enjoy it and YOU as the parent will enjoy and remember seeing that wonderment in their face! seeing their excitement. And THAT makes the trip worth it!

Trust me! Don't let those sticks in the mud ruin a trip for you! :cheer2:

[Mommymcgee]

Who cares if the kids won't remember it? You will! Don't forget all the fun YOU will have just playing with your kids there. It is your vacation too. Personally I find it more fun to watch my child's eyes light up with excitement over a favorite character than to ride a rollercoaster alone. That is the joy of being a parent. Your kids are only young once and these memories will last forever for YOU. Plus it is a great excuse to be a child again yourself and do things that you might not otherwise do. You can do all the character stuff now, when it is magical, instead of listening to older kids complain about how boring or uncool it is.

Do kids remember their cute little baby nurseries or first birthdays smearing cake all over themselves? Of course not. Should we just skip these things too?

Plus you have the wonderful gift to be with your grandmother and your mother and your husband and your children NOW as a family. Sadly if they have health issues now they will only get worse. Life is too uncertain. Do it while you can and don't regret it!

[raider97]

We just got back from our first trip with our three children, ages 4 (5 in June), 3 (in March), and 16 months. It was wonderful... we had a great time. I am already planning to go back in 2009.

Stephanie

[LilGMom]

3 kids (ages will be 5, 2 1/2, 1 1/2 at the time of the trip) People my hubby works with are telling him that our kids are *not old enough* to go to WDW and it will be more frustrating than fun

Bahumbug to those people!!! :headache:

We've been taking our boys since the oldest was 10 months old. He is going to be six soon and while he might not remember the early trips he loves seeing the pictures. The cutest picture I have of him is of him tackling (literally) Pooh at ToonTown. Before they are three they are free so you can't beat that! Yes it will be some work but the memories you will have and the joy that seeing Disney through such young fresh eyes will be priceless. Not only will it be priceless for you but think about how much joy your mil and your grandmother will get seeing your kids' reactions. Since you'll have other adults there it won't be much work at all!

[DBarber600]

There is not a lot to do for children that age, so why spend the money?? They won't even remember the trip.

Admission to the parks and meals at buffet restauraunts are FREE for children 3 and under. As a matter of fact, I have been recommending to my friends to take their kids before they are 3 - they're free and they are old enough to appreciate the experience. 5 and 2 1/2 are really fun ages for WDW (my kids ages when we took them).

They may not remember, but you will. Anyway, DD went last year right before her third birthday and she remembers things that I don't even remember!

Have fun!

[new_mommy]

we just returned from WDW. We spent a week there with our 4 year old dd. I don't think it's a matter of whether they will or won't remember everything. You can show them pictures to help spark their memories at a future point.

I think your success in having a good vacation though is how you manage your time and the children. If you try to go from park opening to close with three kids I think you're asking for trouble. I think you and your husband should also agree that you may end up spending time apart to keep the kids on track.

I can't tell you how many complete and total meltdowns we witnessed where kids were just overstimulated and overtired. We even heard one mom telling her son (who was probably 2 1/2 and screaming) that she didn't care if he didn't want to watch the parade, they paid a lot of money to be there and they were gonna watch it! We also watched several families who had kids around 5 - 8 taking them into age appropriate attractions while holding an infant, who was screaming.

JMHO.

[badblackpug]

I think 5 is a perfect age. At WDW they are big enough to do most of the rides but still young enough to believe in the fantasy of it all. Go, have a great time. You have plenty of adults to help if the toddlers get fussy!

[jessica52877]

I got so tired of hearing that. My son LOVED disney at a very young age, we actually took him at 6 weeks and he was fascinated with the lights alone! I would not at this age say he loved it though, but by the time we took him again he was only 1, I don't remember exactly) and he loved it. He would run up to the characters, give hugs! Get on all the rides and laugh and laugh.

[luvsmickeymouse]

I wouldn't even listen to things like that. I took my kids when they were 5 and 2 for the first time. Both loved it, I didn't find it difficult or anything. I love the memories I made watching both of them. We have gone every year since.

Your younger two kids will go for free anyway. They will have fun. You will have fun watching them.

[jcamacam]

Well, gee, using that logic, why even take kids anywhere at all until they can remember it?

"Sorry, honey, we can't go outside and play. You won't remember it." :rolleyes:


Anyway, my DS5 and DS2 will be there with us this December for my DS5's 6th trip and my DS2's 3rd trip and each time we went with them, it was a blast. Yes, they had their occasional bad moods here and there (just like at home!) but we followed their cues when they were tired, hungry, etc. and had very, very enjoyable trips.

Good luck and have a great time!
:goodvibes