Tips for Toddlers

[TAngel84]

I am currently planning a trip for next Spring Break. My best friend, her husband, her 6 (turning 7 on trip) dd My Ds 5 and dd 7 and myself. That was the plan when I started planning and things were working out perfectly---kids all around the same age, same interests. Well now if things work out the way I hope they do I will be adopting a friends 7 month old little girl. This would put her around 16/17 months at the time of the trip. I really want to bring her and include her in this trip but at the same time I feel like all day in the park may still be a bit much on her? What do you think? Also any tips or suggestions on the older kids riding the height restricted rides w/ the little one in tow.

I am currently trying to talk my parents into traveling with us even though they have no desire to do the parks...they can enjoy the pool and chill at the house and then I'll be able to take the little on to the parks in the morning and then she can spend the afternoon and evening with Gammie and Papa at the house while we head back to the parks with the older kids.

 

[kmb584]

I don't think it'll be too much. My daughter was 15-months-old on her first trip and had more energy than I did. I tried afternoon naps and breaks at our resort but the little stink wouldn't wind down; she'd stand in her pack 'n play yelling "go!" as she pointed towards the door. What worked best (for me) was to allow her to fall asleep in her stroller. She'd nap in there for 2-2.5 hours while I walked around stores, etc. For rides with height requirements, you could get a rider swap pass. All of you, including the toddler, will approach the stand-by or FP+ (if one is scheduled at that time) line and ask for one. You and the baby will wait while the others ride, and if your friends are in agreement they'll watch the baby while you and 2 others ride with the rider swap pass. Another alternative is to hire a babysitter for a night or two. I used Kids Nite Out a couple of times before my daughter was tall enough to ride the rides I like best (BMTRR, Test Track). The sitters were all fantastic and it allowed me to tour solo and get the big attractions out of my system.

 

[MunchkinSweetPea]

Our youngest was 14 months old during our last trip and we did well heading back to the hotel for mid day naps. The only time she had any issues was when she was afraid of rafiki and during the last two days due to teething. Otherwise she was happy to be running around with big sissy, she loved the splash pads, and for the most part even smiled in character photos.

 

[MunchkinSweetPea]

Rider swap was a good option that we used often. If you are unable to get the grandparents on board and want to let her nap in the stroller there are quite a few quiet spots to go relax and enjoy a snack (and maybe even a drink). http://www.tipsfromthedisneydiva.com/2011/05/21/quiet-places-to-rest-and-nap-in-wdw/

 

[jacknsally19]

Rider swap is a good option but there are a ton of rides that the little one can ride on. My DD really liked the shows when she was younger so I made more of a point to see them.... even the little shows at Epcot.

Personally, I think a midday break is good for everyone but if you need a to find a quite spot there are good options in each park. At MK, there is a quiet area near Pete's Silly Sideshow with shade... also the 2nd floor of Columbia Harbor House. At Epcot, I like going in Innoventions for quiet time also there are some nice benches along the World Showcase where you can enjoy a nice beverage while the little one naps. At AK, the animal trails have some quiet spots. Not so sure about HS - I am not the biggest fan of that park unless its Christmas time.

You know what's awesome about an 18 month old, they are totally cool with whatever the plan is... won't get upset about leaving the park, meeting the wrong character, or not getting the dessert that they wanted. Its when they get a little older is more painful! LOL

I would say the one downside with that age is that the stroller can't be brought in ride lines. So you may want to consider a baby carrier depending how good they are standing.

 

[TAngel84]

Thanks for the tips. I definitely think rider swap is going to be our best friend! LOL. Still hoping my grandparents will go because although I am perfectly happy to see Disney through the little ones eyes the older 3 are going to want to go go go and do all the big rides. But rider swap will be helpful with that. Thanks for all the tips and help. I'm getting very excited about this trip.