Overcoming Fear of Rides + Rider Swap

[DVC Mary]

Does anyone have any ideas on how to help a child overcome fears of certain rides? My DH is frustrated that our DS 6 who has been to WDW every year of his life, is still scared of many rides. DH doesn't want to waste time doing the swap thing & last trip we encountered some CMs who wouldn't give a rider swap ticket b/c he was tall enough for the ride. We've tried bribing him w/ a pin for the ride afterwards, but he has gone on some & refuses to go back. Our eldest son has been going on ToT since he was a very tall 2 1/2, so my DH thinks thinks youngest should be able to overcome his fears. I am hoping w/ age he'll get past it, but wondered if anyone had any ideas.

The wierd thing is that his fear of certain rides doesn't fit his personality. He's a very active daredevil at home.

Thanks in advance for any suggestions!

 

[Moodyzblu]

I say .. let him be !! He'll go on the rides when he feels comfortable. My oldest ds was afraid of the rides for many years, and at 14 has just started doing the bigger rides, like Rockn Roller Coaster. I tried the whole bribe thing too .. and it didnt work. For whatever reasons he doesnt like the rides, you have to respect his wishes. He may suprise you one time and decided to go on rides after all .. you just have to have patience and let him do it when he's ready.
I hope you guys have a great time !!

 

[brat5063]

I agree with Michelle. I know it has to be frustrating, but I wouldn't push him. Hope you have a great trip!

 

[tjmw2727]

Every kid is different and I personally woudln't push him if he isn't ready, afterall its his vacation too right?

As for rider switch (babyswap) the CM's were correct in not allowing this if your son is tall enough to ride. Rider switch is designed as a convenience for families who can't ride together due to an imposed restriction (usually height), Instead of double wait for the attraction this allows for just one wait. If the child is tall enough generally you aren't eligible to use rider swap because its a choice.

I would suggest good use of Fast Pass if your son isn't interested in something, you could also split up for a a few rides so nobody is waiting and everyone is happy. If your dh and other children want to ride Space Mtn you can take your 6yo on Buzz Lightyear, next you take your older children on say Big Thunder while your dh does a loop on the railroad or a trip to Tom Saywer Island with your 6yo. As an adult I don't feel the need to ride every big ride, so I often sent dh and my older dd to do the "thrill rides" while my younger dd and I did something else.

Hope you can work something out.

TJ