First timer with a lot of questions

[Countrymomof1]

If you're interested in a split stay, I would suggest splitting between the Contemporary and either Pop Century or Art of Animation's Little Mermaid rooms. We've stayed at all 3 resorts and while we loved the Contemporary, the price difference is massive enough that we haven't been back. The Skyliner is an amazing bonus for staying there, plus we've found that we prefer the quick service dining locations and the pools over at Pop/AoA.

If you have your heart set on Contemporary, spend a couple of nights there and then head over to Pop/AoA. You'll get the chance to stay at a place you've always wanted to see, ride the monorail, as well as ride the Skyliner, AND you'll save a little bit of money which can go toward LL passes, souvenirs, etc.

Great tips thanks! I am going to look into the Skyliner. Never been on a monorail before....not even a subway! haha

 

[AnnaS]

Another thought - regular overnight diapers instead of pull-ups as suggested. Use the inside pad for extra protection and maybe try, if you have not, the plastic "old fashioned" underwear worn over cloth diapers years ago? Not sure if they are used today......(I would think they do, I have read many still use cloth diapers). Again, just extra protection and "thinking" what might help. I bet you have tried just about everything.

Wish you a wonderful trip too!!!

(I suggested candles also/did not know they were not allowed/never used them. We did order a mickey cake for my grandsons birthday at Beaches and Cream. It can be added to your dining reservation).

 

[Genie+]

Thanks everyone! It looks like a lot of you are suggesting a more economic place to stay. I have always wanted to stay there. I loved the fact the the monorail runs straight through the hotel. I saved a lot of money to afford it as well as shopping and souvenirs etc.

I say go for it! Life is short and you only get to your first trip to WDW with GD once.

I’m a penny pincher by nature and my husband is the ‘spender’. After 30 years I’ve learned that sometimes he is right. We’ve racked up some very memorable experiences along the way that never would’ve happened by my choice alone.

Sure - it’s not good to eat filet mignon every night if you can’t afford. But if you can do it once in a while and love it? Yes!

 

[Skippyboo]

Not really indoors waterpark ideal locations because the Florida weather is normally good. Nothing like you would have in Wisconsin Dells. Disney will have a waterpark open -Blizzard Beach. It would be easier to go a Disney waterpark instead of Universal’s waterpark.

 

[Countrymomof1]

Another thought - regular overnight diapers instead of pull-ups as suggested. Use the inside pad for extra protection and maybe try, if you have not, the plastic "old fashioned" underwear worn over cloth diapers years ago? Not sure if they are used today......(I would think they do, I have read many still use cloth diapers). Again, just extra protection and "thinking" what might help. I bet you have tried just about everything.

Wish you a wonderful trip too!!!

(I suggested candles also/did not know they were not allowed/never used them. We did order a mickey cake for my grandsons birthday at Beaches and Cream. It can be added to your dining reservation).

I agree. I am going to have a sit down talk with her about going back to diapers even if it's only at night. She hasn't worn an actual diaper for maybe 4 years. As a mom, I think it would be easier for me if I had a friend or someone that said oh yea, my 8 year old still wears a diaper at night too. I guess just the thought hurts me even though it's probably what's needed. Sorry, its hard to put into words how I feel about it. She is mature and might not have a problem with it if it helps her feel more comfortable over night. And if she is OK with them, maybe she could start using them at home. I have never use cloth diapers before but I think I know what your talking about.

 

[Countrymomof1]

I say go for it! Life is short and you only get to your first trip to WDW with GD once.

I’m a penny pincher by nature and my husband is the ‘spender’. After 30 years I’ve learned that sometimes he is right. We’ve racked up some very memorable experiences along the way that never would’ve happened by my choice alone.

Sure - it’s not good to eat filet mignon every night if you can’t afford. But if you can do it once in a while and love it? Yes!

As am I usually. I hate having to go grocery shopping and DH nags me because I spend hours looking for coupons. When my friend came back from Disney and said they had a blast I was like OK, I can splurge on 1 thing and this is it! Well not JUST for my daughters birthday. That was just 1 excuse! haha

 

[Countrymomof1]

Not really indoors waterpark ideal locations because the Florida weather is normally good. Nothing like you would have in Wisconsin Dells. Disney will have a waterpark open -Blizzard Beach. It would be easier to go a Disney waterpark instead of Universal’s waterpark.

We actually have family in Wisconsin. Not sure how far from Wisconsin Dells but it would be a good reason to go visit them.

 

[lanejudy]

She hasn't worn an actual diaper for maybe 4 years.

I understand what you are saying... but a "pull-up" is just another style of diaper. They are both diapers:

A diaper (/ˈdaɪpər/, NAmE) or a nappy (BrE, AuE, IrE) is a type of underwear that allows the wearer to urinate or defecate without using a toilet, by absorbing or containing waste products to prevent soiling of outer clothing or the external environment. ​

And YOU need to wrap your head about that -- then she'll take her cues from your attitude towards it. If you are matter-of-fact in presenting "this style will fit you better because it can be adjusted" instead of seeing it as returning to an infant or immature stage. Explain she can still put it on (and remove it) herself, she's still in control there.

Have you looked into washable absorbent undies? I don't know if they hold enough for overnight, but I noticed a while ago that the bedwettingstore.com has some. And there are other websites with cloth or reusable training pants/diapers/pull-ups? There is now teen's and women's absorbent garments, so I'm sure there's girl sizes somewhere online as well.

 

[Genie+]

You can request waterproof sheets on your room reservation too.

All the onsite rooms already come with water resistant mattress pads as well.

There’s 24 hour laundry rooms at WDW resorts. At Contemporary I think it’s on 2nd floor.

Just thought that info might help with planning.

 

[Countrymomof1]

I understand what you are saying... but a "pull-up" is just another style of diaper. They are both diapers:

A diaper (/ˈdaɪpər/, NAmE) or a nappy (BrE, AuE, IrE) is a type of underwear that allows the wearer to urinate or defecate without using a toilet, by absorbing or containing waste products to prevent soiling of outer clothing or the external environment. ​

And YOU need to wrap your head about that -- then she'll take her cues from your attitude towards it. If you are matter-of-fact in presenting "this style will fit you better because it can be adjusted" instead of seeing it as returning to an infant or immature stage. Explain she can still put it on (and remove it) herself, she's still in control there.

Have you looked into washable absorbent undies? I don't know if they hold enough for overnight, but I noticed a while ago that the bedwettingstore.com has some. And there are other websites with cloth or reusable training pants/diapers/pull-ups? There is now teen's and women's absorbent garments, so I'm sure there's girl sizes somewhere online as well.

Thank you very much. ITA with you. Its only me that feels that way. I make sure I keep my feeling to myself and never let her feel "babyish" or anything as she is the one that wanted to wear a pull up at night. Being almost 8 she does know the difference even though they are basically the same. I will just have to make sure she knows it. And your right, she can put it on and take it off by herself with just a little more effort than the pull ups.
I never considered getting any sort of cloth pants/diapers/pull ups. I thought never crossed my mind to use cloth. I never used the cloth training underwear when she potty trained either. I will look around and see what my options are and of course the cost.
Thank you again! I just want the best for me and I hate seeing her sad in the morning and being sad about going to Disney for her birthday when she should be jumping for joy.

 

[Countrymomof1]

You can request waterproof sheets on your room reservation too.

All the onsite rooms already come with water resistant mattress pads as well.

There’s 24 hour laundry rooms at WDW resorts. At Contemporary I think it’s on 2nd floor.

Just thought that info might help with planning.

Thanks. I am also bringing a waterproof mattress cover. Someone else suggested an air mattress as well. I am going to buy one this weekend. I think that will ease her mind to so she doesn't have to worry about getting the bed wet.

 

[WEDWDW]

Hi, I thought I would chime in with my 2 cents.
One, I do not think the contemporary is worth the money for a first time trip. My kids have always loved the values and we've stayed at every hotel on property. These are still nice, way cheaper and super fun for kids. The money you will save, you can do some super fun stuff with. Like Mickeys Christmas party, Lightening lane passes, more character meals or the dining plan, rent a boat for fireworks on bay lake, go putt putt, take a hot air balloon ride, etc.

Two, if your daughter doesn't nap at home, she won't nap at Disney. Definitely take it easy, don't try to go sun up to sun down everyday or you will end up with a child having a complete melt down on day 4 or 5. I've been there myself and see it everytime we go. WDW is HUGE, you will not see it or do it all and that's okay. Make a list of must dos and focus on those. Anything else is just a bonus.

Three, cut out your Volcano bay day. This is at Universal, not WDW. Traffic on I-4 is ALWAYS horrendous, I live here. Plus it does sometimes get "cold" here in Dec (50s), so it might be fairly chilly that day, not super fun. All Disney pools are fun plus they always have a crew out everyday playing games with the kids. Much more relaxing for you.

Ditto,ditto,ditto.

 

[SL6827]

What part of TN are you planning to stay at? I can't imagine that drive. I would suggest maybe Chattanooga. (Hamilton Place Mall area)

 

[redrosesix]

First time poster, first time Disney trip, first time on a vacation for a week with DD (8 in Dec). Going for her birthday! Been saving up for a LONG time for this trip.

I have a few questions so please bear with me. HAHA

Are there any special perks or secrets anywhere I should ask about on her birthday? Like maybe a free meal or ice cream or something? We will be staying at the Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Has anyone stayed there before?
We will be driving from Michigan so I have never driven this far/long with her before and was wondering what I should bring along in the car to keep her occupied. Its about a 17 hour drive so we will be stopping on the way in Tennessee.
I want to enjoy some of the rides as well. Is Space Mountain safe for kids? I know we will be hitting Volcano Bay as well. We both love putt putt and go-carting so we will be looking for those spots too.
I am afraid to ask but, are the souvenirs and gift shops expensive? I am assuming buying stuff in the actual parks are going to cost more that at lets say Walmart.
For an 8 year old, how long it too long of a day. I am thinking half day then back to the hotel for a nap and snacks then back out after. She doesn’t nap anymore but she will probably need one while there.

This is a touchy subject but, I was hoping she would be past this by now but, she still wets the bed. And when I mean she wets the bed, she soaks it! We currently use pull ups (at her request because she absolutely HATES waking up in a wet bed) but, I still end up washing because they just don’t last all night. I get her the overnight pull ups because she still fits in them. Tried the goodnite brand ones and they do fit barely, those don’t work either. She can’t wait to go but also says she doesn’t want to because she knows she will wake up in wet bed. I have a mattress cover that I am going to bring and I have told her time and time again that NO ONE will know. Not sure what my options are if any so if anyone has any been there done that tips, I am all ears!

I guess my final question for now is for those who have done both. Which is better in your opinion a cruise or Disney World. I want to try a cruise my next trip. Never been on a cruise before either.
Thank you in advance for the tips and suggestions!

I did have a couple of friends who were older than that and still wet the bed, one of them regularly. The only way I can suggest is that you help her pick out some sheets for her hotel room bed, a couple of bottom sheets, and tell her you will wash the sheets every morning if you have to. I'm not sure about CR, but at the Values the laundry rooms are next to all of the pools. It would take less time than eating your breakfast.

My daughter's first trip was when she had just turned 8, and it's such a magical time because they are still princesses. We did BBB of course and all of the princesses made a big fuss of her when she was in MK sporting her new princess dress and sash....we did the works including the photo shoot. Disney doesn't provide anything special for birthdays but you can arrange to have something delivered to the room like flowers or a balloon bouquet. If you opt for a value or mod resort you can decorate the room window too.

I have done the long drive...for us it's 32 hours. It's 17 just to get to our family Ontario. It's not horrible if you have no other choice. We would do that in 2 days. We camp along the way in summer but we book with Hotels.com wherever we are when we have to stop for the night. There are lots of tips about driving down on the Transportation Board. Having said that, you should look into things that can help you get over your fear of flying...it is possible. I totally understand because I was in a plane that had turbulence and wind shear and it wrecked me for a while, but you just need to get through a few hours and I'm sure some day you'll be able to do it.

I've been to every resort and I understand your wanting to stay at the CR, but if you haven't looked into the other resorts you should. When my daughter was younger her favourite was the Ariel section at AoA, but for a first trip and being so young she will love any resort. I second the opinion that you're going to need to buy lightning lanes to get through the crowds...if that's going to make your trip too expensive then you should look into other resorts.

A big yes for naps from us...in the middle of a park day or a dance competition.

 

[AnnaS]

I agree. I am going to have a sit down talk with her about going back to diapers even if it's only at night. She hasn't worn an actual diaper for maybe 4 years. As a mom, I think it would be easier for me if I had a friend or someone that said oh yea, my 8 year old still wears a diaper at night too. I guess just the thought hurts me even though it's probably what's needed. Sorry, its hard to put into words how I feel about it. She is mature and might not have a problem with it if it helps her feel more comfortable over night. And if she is OK with them, maybe she could start using them at home. I have never use cloth diapers before but I think I know what your talking about.

I am not suggesting cloth diapers though - just the plastic underwear that go over cloth diapers. You would use the plastic underwear as extra protection over the regular bought diapers.

I am sure it's hard - a little compromise/talk - trial and error with what might/might not work. Really wish the best for you both

 

[Countrymomof1]

What part of TN are you planning to stay at? I can't imagine that drive. I would suggest maybe Chattanooga. (Hamilton Place Mall area)

I am thinking Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge or Nashville. I don't think there is a lot to do in Nashville for kids for a short layover so maybe Pigeon Forge. I want to check out the Titanic exhibit they have. I love the history behind it. I know they have a container of water that is the same temperature of the water when it sank. You can put your hand in it to see how long you can last. Plus they have a few go cart tracks there too.

 

[redrosesix]

There is no cancellation fee this far out, but if you are still going you would just be modifying your reservation, even if you opt to go to another resort

we have done a lot of split stays, and they can be a perfect way to experience more of the world. We always plan a park day or water park day for moving day. Just pack up your stuff in the morning and call Bell Services to pick it up...when you see it again it will be at your new resort. We've had to call for it a couple of times, and others it has just materialized in our room...it's like magic.

As for water parks, you'll find it much easier to go to Blizzard Beach. Unless you're planning a Universal trip I wouldn't even venture outside of wdw until it's time to go home. We tried it on our first trip and went back as quickly as possible.

 

[Countrymomof1]

I am not suggesting cloth diapers though - just the plastic underwear that go over cloth diapers. You would use the plastic underwear as extra protection over the regular bought diapers.

I am sure it's hard - a little compromise/talk - trial and error with what might/might not work. Really wish the best for you both

I am not sure I could handle cloth diapers, I was just replying to what lanejudy had suggested. I will look around to see if I can find some plastic underwear in her size. That would be the added protection to the diapers to safeguard from any potential leaking. I am sure that would be a boost to her confidence as well.
I really appreciate all the suggestions, this has been a touchy subject for us and even more so now that we will be staying away from home.

 

[Countrymomof1]

I did have a couple of friends who were older than that and still wet the bed, one of them regularly. The only way I can suggest is that you help her pick out some sheets for her hotel room bed, a couple of bottom sheets, and tell her you will wash the sheets every morning if you have to. I'm not sure about CR, but at the Values the laundry rooms are next to all of the pools. It would take less time than eating your breakfast.

My daughter's first trip was when she had just turned 8, and it's such a magical time because they are still princesses. We did BBB of course and all of the princesses made a big fuss of her when she was in MK sporting her new princess dress and sash....we did the works including the photo shoot. Disney doesn't provide anything special for birthdays but you can arrange to have something delivered to the room like flowers or a balloon bouquet. If you opt for a value or mod resort you can decorate the room window too.

I have done the long drive...for us it's 32 hours. It's 17 just to get to our family Ontario. It's not horrible if you have no other choice. We would do that in 2 days. We camp along the way in summer but we book with Hotels.com wherever we are when we have to stop for the night. There are lots of tips about driving down on the Transportation Board. Having said that, you should look into things that can help you get over your fear of flying...it is possible. I totally understand because I was in a plane that had turbulence and wind shear and it wrecked me for a while, but you just need to get through a few hours and I'm sure some day you'll be able to do it.

I've been to every resort and I understand your wanting to stay at the CR, but if you haven't looked into the other resorts you should. When my daughter was younger her favourite was the Ariel section at AoA, but for a first trip and being so young she will love any resort. I second the opinion that you're going to need to buy lightning lanes to get through the crowds...if that's going to make your trip too expensive then you should look into other resorts.

A big yes for naps from us...in the middle of a park day or a dance competition.

I cant remember who suggested it but I am going to buy an air mattress she can sleep on and so she doesn't have to worry as much about wet sheets. I am also bringing sheets as well as a waterproof mattress cover.
I know we wont have time to do everything we want so we need to brainstorm and make a list of 10 top things we want to do/see.
I have only been camping a couple times in my life and I wasn't a fan but....I LOVE the outdoors. We are definitely looking this weekend so she can have some input too. I am more excited than she is! haha

She isn't a napper but I mentioned in another post, it might help stop the bedwetting. She is VERY active and when she falls asleep that's it! She is out for the night. If/when I try to wake her up to go, she has no clue what is happening and wont even make the effort to go because she is still asleep.

 

[bluezy]

Perhaps a written note from Dr. with a diagnosis of incontinence "discretely shown" at check in would help with having the spare sheets provided, I mention this in case you happen to get a CM that doesn't get it or Housekeeping pushes back.

Definitely bring a mattress cover. Since your driving, what about an air mattress to have on standby. You could change her and finish the night on it saving the linen change for morning. Shortens the middle of the night disruption.

I've *never* had housekeeping "push back" and I've requested extra sheets on at least 6 visits. I guess it doesn't hurt to bring your own set of sheets just in case, but I'd much rather use the resort supplies so I don't have to worry about washing sheets during my vacation. I also don't want to have to worry about housekeeping accidentally taking my personal sheets. A friend of ours took their own blanket for the bed -- just a plain dark green blanket purchased at Walmart for the trip -- and it disappeared from their room when housekeeping changed their bedding one day. It was nothing fancy, so I don't think it was a housekeeper stealing it. I think it got wrapped up in the pile of bedding for the room and accidentally got mixed in with the resort laundry...even though it was a completely contrasting color. Also, a lot of resorts now have rolling supply cabinets with sheets, towels, and other supplies out in the hallway for at least a portion of each day so guests can grab what they need. I don't know if they do this at every resort, but I definitely saw it at AoA (suites), Pop Century, BWI, and AKL in 2022 and 2024.

The air mattress is a good idea.