Help for trip with DD(10) DS(7) DS (3)

[BobbiB5]

Can anyone help us? Our family of 5 is going on a land/sea Disney vacation on 11/28/04. We have been to Disneyland before, but not to WDW or on a cruise. Do you have any tips, recommended itineraries for families with similar age children, etc. Thanks for your replies.

 

[maps]

There are so many things I can recommend but don't know where to start.

First, you will have a great time! I've never been on a disney cruise but everyone i've talked to say it's the best cruise for the kids. They won't want to leave!

Since you have a little one with you, make sure to take lots of breaks since you don't want to have overtired little ones having melt downs. Try to do at least one character meal--even the bigger kids might enjoy it.

Depending on the little ones height, you may not be able to go on all rides as a family. Try doing a child swap for the rides that both parents will want to go on. That way, the older ones can go on the ride twice if they want.

There are lots of other things that I'm sure others will tell you about. If you have any specifics, let me know.

 

[disneyag]

You might get lots of info from this website

www.allearsnet.com.

My kids are DS 11, DD 7. We always make a list of things each person really wants to do/see. That way if one child doesnt' want to do a certain activity/ride, we can child swap. We used child swap a ton when DD was little.

We have always found it helpful to make a PS at a sit down restaurant for lunch each day. Sitting for an hour and being waited on really bought us more time later in the day (not so many grumpies!!)

Each of my kids has a fanny pack. They have a few snacks (which helps with waiting in line), autograph books, pens, etc.

We take advantage of Early Entry at least at the MK. That way you can do all of Fantasyland or Tomorrowland before the rest of the crowds get there.

 

[DisneyMomx7]

The only Early Entry we do is MK. Our kids are 7, 5 and 3. We go in the summer so we always take an afternoon nap/swim break. Believe it or not I would rent a double stroller for your 7 and 3 year old because the kids tire out walking a lot faster than you think. My 7 year old dd would never use a stroller at home but it's a lifesaver at Disney World.

The one thing I would tell you is not try to see everything in one trip and take sometime to relax and feel the Magic. Have a wonderful first trip!

 

[dis-happy]

I grew up as a Disneyland girl, know it like the back of my hand, and all I can say is: WDW is a whole different animal!!!! Go buy the Unofficial Guide to WDW 2005 and read it, especially the touring guides at the end. You'll be very glad that you went prepared.

Surreal moment at WDW vs. DL: getting off the Peter Pan ride and seeing IASW right across the street.