DD taking a friend..what do I need to know?

[#1Disfann]

Hi all. I've had our trip booked since April for me, DH and DD14. When we were ready to book she asked 2 friends to go (first one and then the other - not both). Actually, I asked the parents first. The first friend decided not to because of interference with her basketball program and the second friend's parents thought that was too far for too long and I can respect all of that but....me being the HUGE Disney nut, I was thinking what is wrong with these people... I felt like I couldn't give this trip away! So we just let that idea drop...until 2 days ago. I asked DD if she would like me to try one more person and of course she said YES! She is an only child so I knew how happy she would be to have someone come with us! First I checked if the air was still available (is was and CHEAP...117.10 round trip non stop) Then I called Disney to make sure I could add her to the package and I could with no problems so then I called the parents and discussed it with them and said if they could cover the air, that I would pay the rest (same as I offered with the other two). Well....they are Disney people too so they said yes right away! So we are all excited! So...to my question (finally ), I just wondered for those of you that have taken a child's friend...what do I need to know that I may have forgotten? The money and medical issues have been handled. Anything else that would be good to know? Thanks a bunch!

 

[PocahontasLookALike]

I don't have kids, but I learned from traveling with my 13 year old niece and her friend:

Find out if the friend gets motion sickness. This could be a real downer if you find this out at the wrong time.

Allergies to certain food

Maybe let the girls take turns on deciding what to do and when...that way you don't run into the infamous, '...she ALWAYS gets to pick what we do...'

 

[MinnieGirl33]

Something in writing that states you are a temporary guardian.

On the off chance she gets sick or trips & falls & needs stitiches or has a dental emergency in order for her to receive medical attention you will need proof that you are authorized to give consent.

 

[freckles and boo]

My kids are younger and we haven't spent more than a few hours with their friends, but I would suggest that you do a trial run and have the girl over to spend the night. Let them use that time to make their "must-do" list, and you can observe how they interact. Even good friends can get on each others' nerves with too much togetherness. I would want to be prepared for personality conflicts or quirks that aren't evident when you are only around someone for short periods of time. Also, be sure that your parenting rules and limitations are clear beforehand. She may have stricter or more lenient parents, but you are the boss on this trip and that should be explained without apology.

I am sure they (and you) will have a great time!!! I wish I had had the opportunity to do something like this with my friends when I was a kid.

 

[Angela&Kayla]

Find out how often she is supposed to call her parents! I remember being that age and my parents would say call x amount of times, and I would forget. My parents would then worry, etc.

This seems so simple, but it would definately help keep the girls' parents stress level down...

 

[Schmeck]

Also, at that age, find out if her period is due, etc, during the time of your trip? That way, planning pool time, having supplies on hand, etc, will be a little less stressful.

 

[Mousema]

We did this only with boys. Both times the guys got homesick. So, lots of phone calls and lots of activities to keep busy. After a day or two everything was ok because we hit the parks and there was lots to do. I did ask each boy what their one don't miss was and we planned 2 days around that.

 

[Eeyore Excitement]

Uhm.
I have no clue. xD


Actually, I suggest going to allearsnet.com for more info on this particular subject.

 

[nja33]

Perhaps let them go off on their own once or twice. Of course, that's only if you and the other parents are okay with this. Not saying let them wander around DTD by themselves. But if you and DH want to do the Hall of Presidents and the girls want to do BTMRR, maybe you could let them. I know at 14, I was going to the mall and movies with friends and if both girls are familiar with the parks I don't see that it'd be a big deal. Just make sure they have a cell phone or watch and set a place to meet.

Another idea, if your DD's friend is comfortable enough with you or DH, maybe seperate for a little while. One parent with one girl for a ride, an afternoon, a meal, a nap, or just any time apart. I love my friends but spending a whole week with them can get on my nerves.

Good luck and hopefully it'll all work out and the trip will be fun.

 

[Lucy2005]

Let us know how it went when you get back. Its something I can see us doing in the future for only child and I'd love to hear feedback. Have a great time.
Lucy

 

[MiknMinMouse]

Growing up as an only child my parents tried to bring friends on trips with us when possible or have them stay with us when they could. The biggest thing for me was needing my space every now and again. I was used to my time and having someone with me 24/7 could get on my ever lovin nerves. So I liked the suggestion of offering apart time for your DD and her pal. I would take the pal with me to the pool or something and let DD and dad hang out. Or just be aware that DD may need some time and ask her. If she says no, then don't worry about it.

Also, make sure to have copies of insurance cards in addition to the medical release. And have the medical release notorized. We do this when my DH and I have been out of town and left the kids with grandparents.

It's so thoughtful of you to think of your DD because being an OC and traveling with just mom & dad can get kind of loney. Cheers to you!

 

[#1Disfann]

We are all looking forward to a great trip. Everyone is excited. Yes, we will let the girls go on their own within the same park as us. DD knows the parks well and is a great, responsible girl! They both have cell phones and my DD knows the rules (when to check in, where to meet if phone service fails, etc.)and we will be sure to let her friend know also. She is a great kid too so I don't expect any major problems. I'm sure there will be moments of getting on one anothers nerves and I love the idea of splitting up (the girls) for awhile if we need to. Thanks for that idea! I don't think either of the girls would have a problem with that either. I have already discussed the need for the medical info/release with her mother and that is taken care of. The money issue is handled and we are just waiting for the 22nd to get here. The girls are gonna get together on Tuesday to go over all the details I have already planned and let me know if there is something that is a must do for them, that I have not already included. I will be sure to let you know how it all goes down so others who may have an only child can get an idea of what to expect in the future. I guess 14 is the age where just hanging with mom & dad the whole time is not fun. I found that out on our first camping trip of the year in May. Poor DD was so bored! She took a friend the next trip and everything was great! Very excited and can't wait!!