Kids

[Eeyores]

Thank you! I love to hear of others' experiences in similar situations. I am a planner by nature and feel it best for us. So I know what might be an issue and figure out ways around it. Like sitting near an exit if we need to leave, etc. over the years, this has helped so much! Like using a large stroller for her at Disneyworld...I was so glad I saw that suggestion on dis boards as it worked wonderfully to keep her from running and getting lost.

 

[WDWJonasGirl]

Have you joined the meet group for your cruise.? You may find someone with an 11/12 year old willing to go to an open hours session at the same time as you so your daughter could play with a "friend". You would need to be there, but could stay in the background with the other parent while the kids got on with it.

That'd be a great idea. I, myself, have high functioning autism so I can help. I've cruised at ages 11, 14, 16, 17, 19, and almost 20. If she wants to leave the Vibe, maybe she could leave with another kid so she isn't alone.

Oops! You posted her age while I was typing my other reply! Correct, at 15 she is only eligible for Vibe. However, all the kids' spaces (Oceaneer Club, Lab, Edge, Vibe) have "Open House" times scheduled for usually at least one hour per day. You are welcome to take her during these times to use the space. Also, consider trying some of the rules I mentioned above if that might help her socialize but give you peace of mind as well. I suggest you stop by Vibe on the first afternoon (which is open house) and talk with the CMs. See how she interacts with others. Sometimes there are younger 13's who request to "age-up" and might be at Vibe instead of Edge. If you discuss your concerns and her challenges/abilities with the CMs, you may find you can work something out.

Enjoy your cruise!

Judy is correct. The age limits are strict but they do have them every now and then. I did those on my last cruise, especially during the adults only time they had there on certain days.

I can see why you're worried. Under the circumstances, it might be best if you don't introduce her to the clubs. In my experience there is no way they will let her join the younger kids, but the two of you can still have a wonderful time together onboard.

Yes! I'm almost 21 (yes, I said 21) and on my last two cruises, I have been considered an adult. Despite this, I've had a blast on them.


Enjoy your cruise!

 

[bumbershoot]

That sounds better than what I was imagining. I have never been on a cruise, but hearing of people falling overboard of cruise ships made me worry!

The reality is the reason that the seasoned cruiser's response to such reports is heavy doubt that it was a "fall". It's just really impossible unless you're up to something.

Apparently I only took pictures of us on the balcony on a Royal ship.

But here's a shadow-picture on DCL. I'm 5'4"ish. I was taking a picture of the chairs on the balcony while leaning against the railing. You can see that it's hitting my bra level in my shadow. (also in the reflection, I see, now that I posted it.)