4 year old boy, Mom, & Dad - 12/08 trip newbies - HELP!

[Timon-n-Pumbaa Fan]

I have no kids that don't have 4 legs and fur, but my co-worker, GiGi does. GiGi, her DH, Mark, and their precious soon to be 4 year old DS, James, are all going on their first trip to WDW and their first real family vacation in December. Being that I am the "Disney Guru" at our office, she has asked for my assistance. I have gotten her all hooked up with the deal side of the trip. Having that info in hand helped to make the case with Mark to actually take the trip. They will be at either POP or one of the AS's from 11/30 to 12/06.

I have even started collecting "Fairy Godmother gifts" for James. So far, I have gotten him a couple of t-shirts, a sweater, and a thermal long sleeve shirt....all Disney of course and best of all.....clearance priced! I got him one of those Buzz Lightyear spinning light handheld toys. I picked up a Cars themed small flashlight for use in the hotel room and/or dark rides. I found a MouseEar toy at Walmart that plays Clubhouse Disney tunes. We also picked up a Woody and a Buzz "magic towel" washcloth for him. Oh, and I almost forgot the mini 8X binoculars for use at AK. This is just the start....more to come, like glow necklaces, an autograph book, a Mr. Potatoe Head, coloring kits that won't write on anything other than the paper inside of the coloring book, and that sort of kiddy stuff. Can you tell I love to spoil other people's kids?

I guess my focus really is in trying to pick up on from you guys is the details that I don't have to consider. Like tips on taking breaks, the must have things to bring to the park for the average 4-1/2 year old boy, and that sort of thing. I just want to make sure that they have a wonderful time and since my "rep" is on the line, I would like to be as prepared as possible to answer their questions. Also, please keep in mind that they are very budget conscious. This vacation is a big splurge for them, so nothing too over the top please.

They have no internet at home or else I would send her here myself. But, I did get them set up to receive the WDW Planning video. But, we know what Disney is going to tell them and while it helps some, your help is, as always, appreciated and will be far more valuable! TIA

 

[Perditamarie]

Here are some ideas for you and your friends:

* double check if the pop warner kids will be there during that timeframe - they stay at the values and I would imagine they can get a little unruly and maybe make the hotel stay less enjoyable.

* bring a cooler bag into the park every day packed w/juice/sippy cups and familiar snacks so they are on hand. Security will check the bags, but absolutely let them in the parks and your friends will be glad they are not constantly hunting down snacks and drinks.

* Bring snacks and breakfast items from home for quick, efficient breakfasts in the room -- they can use toaster/microwave in the food court.

* we have gone twice at Christmas and haven't gone to the MVMCP as it is just too late for us. I recommend keeping regular schedules as much as possible....I know it is not worth it the next day to stay up late at night!

* make any adrs as soon as they can/know what they might be interested in-- because of the popularity of the dining plan, it is very, very difficult to get walk up service and easier to cancel an adr than never to have had one at all!

* don't forget to explain emh and fast passes and the child swap programs.

* pressed pennies are also fun to collect

* the resort can lend them a life vest for swimming for the length of their stay

* the first weekend in Dec they film the Christmas parade for TV,so they can make their Magic Kingdom plans accordingly, but definately expect a crowd!

* special December events: at Epcot,the storytelling Santas around world showcase, tree-lighting ceremony every night, Candlelight processional (very beautiful and you don't necessarily need the dinner package to see it,but it sure helps!), at MK, MVMCP (extra ticket required, a bit pricey and late), at Animal Kingdom the Jungle Jingle Parade,at Hollywood Studios, a Christmas parade.

* definately bring their own stroller, even if he has outgrown it at home

* the Kidcot funstops around World Showcase at Epcot are a lot of fun

* Pop into the Magic Kingdom Barbershop for a crazy, glittery dude 'do w/a hidden mickey!

4 is a great age to go to WDW and they won't need to spend $$$ on fancy hotels or tours for it to be special! How fun for you to help them plan!

 

[Timon-n-Pumbaa Fan]

Thank you! Exactly what I was looking for. I can't tell you how much I appreciate your help.

 

[dzneelvr]

I'd suggest purchasing the Birnbaum's Guide to WaltDisneyWorld/small kids edition It's a wonderful reference book chocked full of the latest and greatest tips. It is the one must-have for us, no matter how many times we go--and an excellent "souvenier" for the trip that you can enjoy over and over again. Last but not least, I'd tell them to "read" their child to see what he is into at WDW. My one mistake our first trip was to completely overschedule with character meals and plans almost every waking moment the kids were tired; DH was "spent" and I was like the mom-police trying to get everyone moving (too)early every morning. Never again! He may want to spend an hour in MGM HISTK playground or eat pizza at Toy Story twice! those are the things he should be able to do. Have a magical time.

 

[Timon-n-Pumbaa Fan]

Excellent advice. I will pass that along too!