Suggestions on Preparing Kids for Character Meetings?

[United544]

Hi!

We are heading to our first family Disney trip in just over a month! Our kids are extremely excited, and we've been watching Disney movies so they'll know the different characters, etc. ---

However, I was wondering if anybody had any suggestions on how they prepared their younger kids for the massive size of some of the characters?

- Chris

 

[mmmears]

I showed my DD some photos of other kids meeting the characters. They are easy to find here on the boards and it gave her an idea of just how big they are. They looked friendly, too, so that helped. She didnt' have any issues with the characters (2.5 yo the first time) but did not want to meet Cruella or the Mad Hatter on that trip!

The princesses are easy enough, and the classic characters have those big smiles.

Hope this helps!

 

[PrincessMonkey]

You can actually watch some videos of the characters greeting other kids online on Youtube, etc. I would show them examples of what they can do or say to "fur" characters (Mickey, Pluto, Donald, Minnie, etc. who don't talk verbally; they are the majority in the parks) vs. "face" characters (Princesses, Princes, Mary Poppins, Mulan, Pocahontas, Fairies, etc. all of whom do talk).

Here is a start:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IQK3jHH7Uq4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuuAZlvvWY4
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5h5CsaZC0E

It helps to let the CMs or handlers know that it is the kids' first time meeting the characters; they can help it go a little more smoothly, because they will make sure that character gets the message. The characters can help shy younger guests learn to trust them and hug them. Strongly consider having an autograph book and a good sharpie marker/big pen so that there is something to "do"... have it ready and open to the right blank page, so the character can sign it before you take the picture with them.