We always hit rope drop and then figured it out as we went. We used their cues to know when we needed to leave. We had figured out by that age that mid-day breaks were terrible for our family. We were better making sure they had enough sleep at night. (Except the last night!) There were trips when we left around 5-6pm every day. There were trips when we could easily stay until after 8pm on occasion recently. It depended on their ages, the heat, and other variables. We never planned dinner so we could play it by ear.
Now, as far as no meltdowns, we have not been meltdown free. But it had nothing to do with being in the parks. There have been meltdowns at 9am before. If a child was acting up the same amount as at home, then that wouldn't be a sign to leave. How the child recovered would be important too. (Expectations did not work with two of my three. Telling one we would stay as long as no one acted like they needed to leave worked quite well on him. But the other two have some other challenges outside of the norm).
Now, as far as no meltdowns, we have not been meltdown free. But it had nothing to do with being in the parks. There have been meltdowns at 9am before. If a child was acting up the same amount as at home, then that wouldn't be a sign to leave. How the child recovered would be important too. (Expectations did not work with two of my three. Telling one we would stay as long as no one acted like they needed to leave worked quite well on him. But the other two have some other challenges outside of the norm).
