New Parent to Disney

[guatemom]

Hi, I am new to the boards but we are going to Disney in another month and I have not been since I was 18 and I'm 40 now so I wanted to get some tips on all kinds of things. We have a 4 year old daughter that is going and my parents as well. Anything helpful would be appreciated. Any little tid bits as well. What about the refillable bottles, things like that....

We are staying at Pop Century, we're flying instead of driving, we have character meals planned at Chef Mickey's, 1900 Park Fare, O'Hana, Princess Storybook. Any suggestions on if our daughter is scared of all the characters??

Look forward to reading all the info on the list!

Susan

 

[Tnkrbelle565]

First off...Congrats and have a great trip. DD is about our daughter's age. We just got back. You'll be shocked at how many rides your daughter can get on. DD got on everything but space mountain, everest,and Mission Space (we purposely skipped Dinosaur). Definately check out the packing lists on here. We always tell people to remember to pack extra snacks, crystal light packets (or something similar-florida water tastes horrible and bottled gets pricey), glow sticks (for the parades), an autograph book and pen, lots of batteries and memory card space for the camera, and your best walking shoes! We brought water bottles this year because we filled them with ice and poured our water into them so that the water stayed a little colder a little longer. We also had a case of water delivered to the hotel but that won't really help you at POP since you won't have a fridge.

If your daughter is scared of the characters, I think the worst thing you can do is force her. I've seen way too many parents pushing their screaming little kids toward the characters. Start her out with the princesses. Since they don't have the big heads on them, they are a lot less scary.

Have fun!

 

[SmallWorld71]

Hi,
I have found most of the characters to be very understanding of shy kids. We went a month ago, and although my DD4 flung herself around many of the characters, she was shy of some. Don't be afraid to speak up to the characters if DD is nervous or to be in the pictures with her or holding her. Actually, my advice for character meals for anyone is to talk to the characters. It will greatly increase you enjoyment and they are usually wonderful about staying in character. For example, when we met Princess Aurora, DS8 asked her if the fairies still fought over the color of her dress and she responded immediately with a great answer.

My best advice based on DD's experience would be to build up the intensity of your rides. For example, the 1st day, my daughter was nervous on some mild rides like Peter Pan, but by mid-week she was zipping along on Test Track, Big Thunder etc... Also, check out any height requirements so you will know in advance what she can/can't ride. Ask for a "baby swap" pass at any ride that all the adults want to ride but DD can't to avoid waiting in line twice.

Have a great time!

 

[dzneelvr]

I think the biggest "do over" we'd do with our kids would have been to pay more attention to their pace and what they liked that first trip. Instead, I came armed with all these plans and reservations and schedules. Sure, it was done with love and we did have an incredible time and got ourselves "hooked" for a lifetime of trips, but boy, were we tired You've got some great meals lined up; now stay flexible and relaxed as you explore the parks from a 4yr. olds point of view. Yes, you could get her on Space Mountain...but really, do you want to?? Try Toon Town instead and let her roam around and place "house" with the characters. Do Buzz Lightyear as many times as she wants to...same for the Bears Jamboree. Consider it a downpayment on a lifetime of memories. Our 4yr olds are now 18 and 20 and we're still loving how we enjoy WDW through their eyes each and every trip!

 

[noahdove]

definitely buy the refillable mug at the POP. I always filled it with ice before we hopped the bus, and filled it throughout the day from the drinking fountains. The water was cold and hit the spot just when we needed it. Taking those single servings they have now, are the best to take, easy to carry and fill Let your little one decide on some of the rides. If possible, talk to her BEFORE you get in line...you know her heart and feelings she has to certain people. Start with the Princesses first and then Mickey and Minnie...good luck and enjoy every minute as she is only this age once..go with the Magic of the day..

 

[lmcdo02]

I would say even though you may think your daughter is too big for a stroller, rent one! It makes day go so much better. 4 year olds still have little legs, and it's hard to keep up that pace for days on end going from place to place.

Another suggestion, take time to enjoy the entertainment at places like Epcot and Animal Kingdom. My kids loved just watching the tumblers at AK, or the comedy group in England. So much to see, it is overwhelming!