Please help- trip with Mom and 3 kids

[twoglasslippers]

I could use some help. I am taking my 3 kids on our first "solo" vacation while Dad is deployed. We are going to California for my Grandpa's 90th birthday, but I couldn't pass up the military tickets to Disneyland for three days. We make a bi-annual trip to WDW, spreadsheets, ADRs and all, but I haven't been to Disneyland since I was a small child and I haven't done much (any) planning for this trip beyond our tickets and hotel reservations. We have 3 day park hoppers and I'm wondering how much planning I need to do. In all honesty, I think part of my lack of enthusiasm is due to my nervousness about this "big" of a trip without my husband. It will also be the first plane ride for my kiddos. My kids usually aren't interested in any table service dining so I think we'll just do quick meals while we're there. What else do I need to consider as far as the parks go? TIA for any advice!!

 

[twoglasslippers]

I forgot to mention- we'll be there in 2 weeks

 

[Goofy_Mom]

Hydroguy has an excelnt thread for WDW vets 1st (or in your case, really long time between) visit to DL.

Without knowing the ages of the kids, it's hard for me to suggest where to hone in on. Fantasyland is where I would start with really little ones, but if you've got pre-teens, I'ld say start with Space Mountain then head to adventure land for Indy and Pirates in New Orleans Square.
The link for Hydorguy's thread:
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1162599

 

[3Minnies1Mickey]

Yes, how old are the kids? This may make some ride configuration tricky with 4 people.

ETA: I did a day at Disney with my 4 kids on my own, its definitely doable.

 

[twoglasslippers]

Thanks for the link! Sorry I didn't mention ages before, my kids are DS 11, DD 8, and DS 6.

 

[pinktink83]

I think you'll be just fine! At those ages, they can go on almost any ride, the only exception *may* be Indiana Jones...the 6 yo may be too short. I would look up the height requirements on disneyland's website and see which rides you'll have to skip that way everyone knows ahead of time and there won't be any disappointments at the park.

You definitely don't need to do as much planning as WDW. However, there is still some planning you can do that will make your trip easier!

No dining reservations needed unless you're doing a character meal, which it sounds like you're not. So I wouldn't worry about meals.

If you get a Magic Morning, definitely use it! And always go on Peter Pan first!