Fussy baby…who has one?

[VTGirlinNC]

I have read most of the threads on here regarding bringing a baby to WDW, but most of the folks that comment seem to have generally happy babies (it seems like that anyways!). Here is my scenario:

We have an almost 6 year old DS who has been to WDW with us 4 times (ages 2.5-5.5). He is so laid back and easy going…we never have any problems with him. Our DD is 8 months. She is much different, and has been since birth. When she's hungry/tired/bored she's very fussy, cries a lot, arches her back, etc. She's very difficult to hold. She does not like to be consoled in any way (I've never been able to rock her, for example). When holding her, we have to be in constant motion. There is no standing in one spot, and god forbid we actually sit down…no way. There are times throughout the day when she is content and happy, but she does get bored quickly, and I am constantly moving her from one activity to the next.

We are contemplating a last minute trip to DW the first week in June for many reasons. One, is that we would love to take a family vacation this year and do not think the beach is a good option for her age (I have visions of sand in her mouth and eyes, and me lugging all the equipment to and from the beach everyday…not a vacation!). In theory, DW sounds like it could be good for her. Lots of stimulation and things to look at. She is getting better at being content in the stroller for longer periods of time.

My question is…have any of you taken a fussy baby to DW, and how did it go? Please tell me the good, bad and ugly!

Also, did you drive or fly? We would be flying…only an hour and 45 minute direct flight, but I am still very worried about how she would handle that.

Thank you!

 

[msmama]

My son was fussy, but when he cried, I'd nurse him and then he'd be okay. So, I had something to stop his fussiness. If there really is nothing you can do to console her and she just has to cry, then I'd say plan what you do around that (I wouldn't want to get stuck on IASW with a screamer, you know).

That said, a fussy baby at disney is better than a fussy baby at home, right?!?!?

(I assume you've made sure it's not a medical problem and she's unconfortable. I was off dairy for a year while nursing and that helped my son greatly).

 

[maxiesmom]

I'm usually the first to say fly to WDW, but honestly, it sounds like it would be a nightmare for you and everyone else on the airplane. How would you hold her and not have her throwing a fit the whole time? I'm wondering, how does she do riding in a car? Does she do ok in her car seat?

 

[NotTheBatesMotel]

Have you had her tested for acid reflux? My son's behavior as a newborn and infant was nearly identical to your description. The arching back, freaking out when you're not moving, etc especially make me think of reflux. We had an upper GI done and they confirmed he had pretty severe reflux. Not a huge deal, but they did start him on medicine to make him more comfortable. Not trying to make you nervous, just might be worth looking into if you haven't yet.

Back to your original question: I did have a really fussy infant and don't think Disney would have been fun for anyone involved at that stage. The bright side is once they get through that super fussy infant stage, toddlerhood is a breeze in comparison!

 

[mom2AidanAndEli]

Honestly, can't imagine going under those circumstances! I'm also thinking of your son. Does he get whisked away from things or is unable to go on certain rides or see certain shows because his sister is making a disturbance? Or are the parents going to split up at those points and each take one child? If so, who gets to have fun on the rides with DS and who gets to deal with the screaming baby? Just seems like you could spend a whole lot of money for a vacation that ends up being pretty miserable for everyone. I'd wait until next year when hopefully she's out of this stage and everyone can enjoy the trip!

 

[VTGirlinNC]

Thank you all for your honest feedback! We have had her evaluated for acid reflux because she did spit up often as an infant. She has been on medication which has definitely helped. Now, her fussiness seems to be out of frustration (ex: if she can't reach a toy). I agree that we should probably wait a year or so, as much as I hate to admit it.