Disney with a 3 week old?

[Mouse House Mama]

Congrats on the new baby!
That being said- No I would not take a 3 week old to germ central. The kids will survive the disappointment. They are getting a sibling. That is pretty exciting stuff. As for the adoption just an fyi- a friend of mine went to get her child and even though she had all the paperwork in order etc. at the last minute there was something that came up and she had to stay in the child's birth state for a couple of weeks before she could leave with the child.

 

[2Pirates2Princesses]

Congratulations on your new bundle of joy! I have to agree with many of the previous posters. Is there a way to reschedule your WDW trip if possible? I know you mentioned that you already had the trip planned and you are going through an adoption process for this baby. In terms of disappointing your older children, I am sure the addition of a new sibling will be just as if not more exciting than a trip to Disney. I think they will understand that the baby's health and the time needed for the baby to adjust as well as the important initial bonding and adjusting time you will need as a family comes first. WDW isn't going anywhere

 

[Sundancer UK]

I've not even been to WDW and I'm agreeing with everyone. No, just - no.

Your children will be getting the most fantastic gift ever of a new baby! That's so awesome, it's even better than Disney.
For the baby's health, and for all of you to get used to a new person in your lives, I think it is definitely best to wait for Disney.
This little guy is going to be getting used to being in the big wide world, getting used to his new mamma, you guys are going to have a whole load of new germs without throwing in all that's at a theme park too. I really feel that it's better for you to 'babymoon' at home, perhaps even more vital than it would be if it were your own baby?

And as people have said, you have no idea how things are going to go at birth and in the days after. He could be very poorly, he could come late, there's too many variations to count!

And regardless of if you've given birth or not, a newborn is physically, and emotionally exhausting. You'll be waking up numerous times each night, and constantly needed in the daytimes. Combining a newborn with other children is going to take even more of a toll on your abilities!

I'm sorry, I've gone on such a lot here and I don't mean to lecture. I work with mums and newborns and am a firm believer in doing as little as possible for the first few weeks (even months, if possible!) so that mum and baby can safely get to know each other. It also gives the baby such a healthy and stable place to grow

Congratulations, what a lovely lovely gift you have I wish you all the very best.

 

[Mrs. Sojourner]

I'd say a wrap. At that point the baby will be sleeping a lot and I found this the best way when we took our youngest as a baby. I used this wrap style: http://www.wearyourbaby.com/Default.aspx?tabid=197 It was hot when we went but I just made sure she nursed enough, I spent a good amount of time in AC (on rides, in restaurants, in Baby Care Center) and in the shade when possible. Definitely take advatage of the great Baby Care Centers. Have a great time!

ETA: We live in Africa and women are out with new babies on their backs (in ridiculously hot clothing, I still can't figure that one out, they love to have babies in winter hats and outfits wrapped in fleece blankets) in the African heat (way worse then FL) at days old and they survive just fine. Another thing to add, not sure if your staying on property, but I'd reccomend downtime back at your hotel in the heat of the day if you are.

 

[GinnyEmma]

I'd say a wrap. At that point the baby will be sleeping a lot and I found this the best way when we took our youngest as a baby. I used this wrap style: http://www.wearyourbaby.com/Default.aspx?tabid=197 It was hot when we went but I just made sure she nursed enough, I spent a good amount of time in AC (on rides, in restaurants, in Baby Care Center) and in the shade when possible. Definitely take advatage of the great Baby Care Centers. Have a great time!

ETA: We live in Africa and women are out with new babies on their backs (in ridiculously hot clothing, I still can't figure that one out, they love to have babies in winter hats and outfits wrapped in fleece blankets) in the African heat (way worse then FL) at days old and they survive just fine. Another thing to add, not sure if your staying on property, but I'd reccomend downtime back at your hotel in the heat of the day if you are.

Sure babies adapt to their environment. But spring break at wdw is hideously crowded. How many germs dies this poor baby need to be exposed to? The airplane trip alone puts him at risk infection wise. Frankly the wellbeing if the baby should be primary. Not some stupid Disney trip. What an ignorant thing to risk a child for.

 

[Mrs. Sojourner]

Sure babies adapt to their environment. But spring break at wdw is hideously crowded. How many germs dies this poor baby need to be exposed to? The airplane trip alone puts him at risk infection wise. Frankly the wellbeing if the baby should be primary. Not some stupid Disney trip. What an ignorant thing to risk a child for.

The whole point is that the OP did not ask for anyones opinion on IF she should go she asked about stroller vs wrap and other travelling with babies advice. She has already talked to her Ped. and noone needs to second guess that. On topic people!

 

[hannahdrewmom]

MANY babies who are adopted fly at a very early age. I agree .... the person did not ask for what you think about her decision to bring the baby but what she can do to help her baby.

I'd agree that you need to take frequent breaks at minimize the heat, especially in the afternoon. Sunhats and umbrellas' for the stroller will be a big help. Personally I'd rather the wrap then a stroller for ease.

 

[Mama Who]

Congratulations on the adoption of your precious son! I formed my family through adoption too and it's an amazing way to become a family!!!

I'm really sorry but I have to chime in with the rest that this time I would spend my vacay in the room with baby and have daddy take the older children to the park. I know you want to be there but baby must be priority #1.

I almost agree with this, with the caveat that one of the joys of adopted babies is that parents are largely interchangeable. Make sure daddy gets some hotel with baby time too! (And then mom gets the park time- win-win!)

I do agree with the posters who have pointed out that a 3 week old does not belong in the park. This may be a 100% healthy baby but you never know until after birth, some are more fragile than others and depending on the birth mother's reason for giving the baby up, the chances may be higher that this little one will be extra fragile at first. Ask a doctor who has met the baby for a final judgement call on what is safe but honestly, even my robust, 100% healthy. over nine pound first born was not taken into crowds that early. It's pretty risky.

Most importantly, congratulations on your newest arrival.

 

[starann]

I have never traveled with a newborn (but will this summer to OBX, but we will be staying with friends and drivign the normal 10hour trip...who know how long it wil ltake us with a BF newborn!!!) but here are my suggestions....

Take advantage of the Baby care areas...if the baby needs to cool off, go there while one of the adults and the older kids go on a few rides.... take cell phones so you can keep in contact with each other.

I would bring a wrap AND a stroller....this way if it is too hot, the baby can go in the stroller. Maybe invest in a stroller fan, so if it is hot, the baby can still be cool. I would also put a LIGHTWEIGHT and LIGHT COLORED blanket over the stroller....keeps the baby from getting sunburned and also from some of the germs.

Pack a few heavier blankets for at night, as it can get pretty cool.


Oh...and LOTS of clothes changes!!! LOL!

 

[Castillo Mom]

Congratulations on your adoption!

We took my nephew to DLR when he was only three weeks old but of course the weather in California is different and we were only there for a day.

You might be able to pull it off by keeping your park time to a minimum and staying mostly at your resort. Maybe your husband can take the older kids to the parks while you relax at the resort with your new little one. He could give you a break and stay with the baby while you spend a couple of hours at the parks with the older kids as well.

Either way, I recommend lots of hand washing, keep the baby covered and don't let well meaning strangers get too close or touch the baby.

 

[tigger51276]

Huge congrats. Honestly if everything is fine with the baby at its wellness check ups before you leave and the baby isn't delayed in "arriving" then go with your family. It sounds like this isn't your first child and you know how to handle an infant and to try to keep folks from touching the baby. Of course like a PP mentioned you never know what kind of health your new little one will be in when born, I had a pretty normal/healthy pregnancy with my second one however she was severly jauniced when born and because of that was failing to thrive so for the first 2 and 1/2 weeks she was either in the hospital or had to been seen at the docs every day for weighing and tests so my best advice is be prepared to go, but also to possible have to stay behind (but hopefully that doesn't happen)
While I haven't traveled to Disney with a 3 week old, I did take my DD at 7 months and my friends brought their 8 week old and we both used harnesses for the babies most of the time although we also traveled with strollers for when we wanted a break. You'll be there in April so weather wise it should be not too bad. We were there the end of May and it was pretty hot and her baby did not handle it well, however they still don't do well in warm temps so... It will probably be warm/hot during the day and much cooler at night so I'd say to pack some heavier blankets and pants for the nights you'll be out with the baby as they get cold much easier and quicker. Obviously overpack on diapers/wipes/formula/bottles/binkies. Better to have too many with you then to run out while there and need to go off site to get more. If baby isn't toleratant of the weather down there I'd say make sure you and/or hubby have some in room entertainment for yourselves. Bring some books, movies, your laptop with you in case you have to spend a day in the room or even several hours. For your stroller I've found that having a rain cover for it is a godsend for when it rains (I just leave it in the basket when not in use as it always rained when I didn't). Have a light mister to mist the baby if it gets really hot.
Again be as prepared as you can be and try to have a great time with your new extended family!! Best wishes.

 

[MistressMerryweather]

Congratulations! I would definitely recommend a sling or wrap. Babies that age sleep a lot and the indoor attractions can get pretty chilly sometimes.
The hardest thing I found with a small baby is keeping them out of the sun. Bring a large umbrella you can carry to keep baby shaded.
Also, I found muslin blankets to be the absolute best to use at DW. They are extremely light and airy and much larger than a typical swaddle blanket. You can drape them over yourself or the stroller and they let air in and keep the sun out. They are great for wrapping the baby when they just need a little security or tiny bit of warmth.

I would say, when you are indoors, on a bus or at a restaurant to keep the baby deeply in the sling or wrap. That way you can keep him/her away from germies and curious people who come up and want to touch.

You may want to keep the number/email of the grocery delivery service on hand if you won't have access to a car. I know some can bf even though they are adopting, but if are feeding formula, sometimes you don't find out about tummy sensitivities until after the first 2 or 3 weeks. You may need to try a new formula, etc.

 

[tigger51276]

Congratulations! I would definitely recommend a sling or wrap. Babies that age sleep a lot and the indoor attractions can get pretty chilly sometimes.
The hardest thing I found with a small baby is keeping them out of the sun. Bring a large umbrella you can carry to keep baby shaded.
Also, I found muslin blankets to be the absolute best to use at DW. They are extremely light and airy and much larger than a typical swaddle blanket. You can drape them over yourself or the stroller and they let air in and keep the sun out. They are great for wrapping the baby when they just need a little security or tiny bit of warmth.

I would say, when you are indoors, on a bus or at a restaurant to keep the baby deeply in the sling or wrap. That way you can keep him/her away from germies and curious people who come up and want to touch.

You may want to keep the number/email of the grocery delivery service on hand if you won't have access to a car. I know some can bf even though they are adopting, but if are feeding formula, sometimes you don't find out about tummy sensitivities until after the first 2 or 3 weeks. You may need to try a new formula, etc.

all awesome ideas...I forgot about how cold the buses get especially at night...we always call them the ice boxes!

 

[hmacmahony]

Go and have fun! Your baby isn't going to DIE like people are saying because you went to disney.
Please, people love a little drama.
Its YOUR baby, we took a 6 week old (and drove down, 24 hours).
We didn't stop to feed the baby every two hours, she didn't overheat, she didn't die. As a matter of fact, shes now almost seven, and that trip has not impacted her life one way or the other.
Yes, disney will ALWAYS be there, but will you and your famliy?
Talk about drama, we live in the day and now. Take the trip, take it easy, visit the baby centers (although, when we went at 6 weeks, we didn't visit the baby centers once...no need).
Get a wrap, my 6 week old lived in that the entire time we were at disney.
Yes, you will be up at night feeding a baby, but I bet you will be surprised, the baby will be more tired because all the excitement, and might sleep better at night.
We are not the type to sit in the house after a baby is born, they enter our life, not stop it.
We drove cross country, with my first, after a pretty hard birth for me, at TEN days old. TEN days. Guess what, we lived, it was a great trip.
And, IF anything happened we weren't traveling to a third world country where there were no hospitals, we were near medical care if needed.
Have a great time, happy adoption!

 

[GinnyEmma]

Just because you can do something doesn't make it the best. Are you saying newborns aren't more susceptible to illness? Look it up. An adopted 3 week old has already been stressed. In utero and out.

 

[Ariel8676]

Congrats!
http://www.carrymeaway.com/pages/BabywearingWeather.html This has some pretty good info in babywearing in the hot weather.
Also something like this might be great.. http://www.rainorshinekids.com/sun.php I would bring a carrier and a nice stroller..at that age the baby is going to be very comfortable next to you..and THAT is how you can bond!
Good Luck!!!

 

[PEANUT1]

If its very warm, just be careful the baby doesn't overheat if you are using a baby carrier that is pressed against your warm body.

I think a combo of carrying and stroller would be best..that being said, I think this newborn is going to be under alot of stress. I would reconsider. I fully understand that you don't want to disappoint the other children and don't want them to "resent" the new baby. Try to find a compromise that can work for everyone. Good luck with your decision and congrats on the adoption.

 

[CandleontheWater]

I would consider finding a stroller with a bassinet attachment. It isn't good for babies, especially young babies to be in a carseat all day. The baby would be much more comfortable in a bassinet, and they would be able to sleep in there at night. Cover the bassinet with a light blanket to make sure that the baby isn't getting any sun.

Baby wearing is great, I'm a big fan, but be sure not to overheat the baby, having a good stroller will be key for any park time.

 

[ccgirl]

I am sorry...I should have explained more...we really don't have a choice. We are adopting and we have to fly to pick him up...we already had the trip planned, paid for, etc., and my older children would be very disappointed. We had no idea that our adoption would happen to fall right before our trip...

I checked with my pediatrician and they said it was fine...just to keep him covered, etc.

I was just looking for some tips for traveling/Disney with a newborn.

Thank you!

Since you looking for tips, I am going to answer that. Bring a stroller with a large hood/rain cover. Bring wooden clothespins and a receiving blanket. Use the clothespins to pin the receiving blanket to the hood. Keep a hat on the baby at all times. I used sunscreen on my babies. I figured it was better than letting them burn. If you are not familiar with the baby care centers at the parks, make yourself familiar. They are wonderful!

It's very interesting how many different answers you will get from pediatricians.

Congratulations on your adoption and have fun!

 

[beekrazey]

Hi, ignore everyone, its your baby you make the choices. It's okay to just offer help people!!

I am a huge babywearer and definitely recommend wearing your baby. It's so much easier to keep them close and away from germs and other people. Plus its much easier to be hands free so you can be with your other children. The biggest thing is overheating, so try these...

Do NOT get a stretchy wrap, they are notoriously very warm. Get a GAUZE wrap if you want to wrap your child. You can also get slings/wraps made of our solarveil or solarweave (veil is better but harder to find) which is lightweight and offers UV protection (like sunscreen). Try a ring sling instead of a pouch if you want one shoulder (easier to get a good fit).

Ergo also has versions that are light weight and good for summer, but 3 weeks is VERY small for a soft structured carrier so beware. A mei tai is a great option and you can sometimes find ones with lighter materials or the UV ones.

Tips for staying cool....dress lightly in light colors, tank tops for you, onesies for baby or just a diaper even. Sometimes wearing something that covers you more is actually better though. Having a thin layer of fabric between you and baby can be cooler than skin to skin, so try a tee shirt that allows them to rest their head on the fabric instead of your chest. Try ice packs!! If you take a soft ice pack and wrap it in a light blanket, you can actually put it between you and the baby, keeping you both cool. Just be careful and make sure its not TOO cold to start and doesn't touch skin at all. Same goes for cool wash cloths, press them up against either or between you both.

Take breaks in AC as often as you can, don't hang out in direct sunlight, keep baby covered, drink tons--you can get easily overheated too. Don't wear for hours straight, take him off frequently to give you both a break (just for heat, not for comfort. you could wear for hours under normal circumstances). He can sleep on you, but I agree, bringing a stroller is a must too. so you can more easily take those breaks and he can sleep in the stroller while you eat, etc. Just be prepared to head back to the hotel if you think the crowds, germs or heat are too much for him.

Let me know if you need more wearing advice =) PS I can't post links, but you can find things if you search online. Just be wary of homemade carriers if they are not