3 Teen in DL & CA for the weekend

[paddycake1998]

My 14 1/2 old son is going DL & CA on a 3 day park hopper with his 2 friends. This will be the first time "alone" for the boys. They are staying at a hotel on site with there family bringing them. Parents will be at a soccer tournament locally. Sounds silly, but any advice? How much money do they need for food etc? Should they wear a lanyard? Any info is helpful. Thank you!

 

[SMD]

I would give him $50, then give the other family $40 more, so that they can give him an additional $20 each day. That way he can try to budget the money for souvenirs and snacks, but if he blows it all on the first day or loses it then he at least won't starve on the other days. I wouldn't give more than $100-$120 or else he may end up subsidizing the friends' budgets. I personally don't use a lanyard, but you could ask him if he thinks it would help keep track of his ticket without losing it. What about a cellphone? How will they get in touch with the family if they need help? And will they be there on the 24 hour day? Consider buying a small battery charger to keep in case the phone runs out and there's an emergency.

 

[Stitch35]

Snacks run around $4-$6, meals run around $10-$15. Some teen boys eat A LOT some not so much. You know you'd teen best and how much he will eat. I would also send him with snacks he can take in the park so it's a bit easier on your pocketbook. I agree with the above poster on giving an emergency fund to the parents that are going just incase your son doesn't budget well.

 

[hjgaus]

All advice here sounds correct so don't worry he will be fine and end up having lots of fun!! We are going Friday for the 24 Hour Event & also invited my just turned 17 yr old son's friend who also is an Annual Passholder for an overnight stay @ VGC! My son enjoys being there more when he is with his peers than hanging out waiting for rides with mom & dad! Since we offered we will take care of all his meals but he may carry his own $$ if he wishes for whatever. I am cooking dinner & breakfast in the villa plus I let my son have charge back to the room privledge for SPECIAL SNACKING ONLY such as icecream, smoothie etc...
When he goes for the day with friends OR school field trip he gets $30 in cash and $25 - $40 in a Disney Gift Card which i can verify goes ALL to FOOD & DRINKS!!!!