My mom(Nana)is paying for my almost 4 year old, almost 2 year old and myself to fly with our family to Disney World. I have never been on a plane, nor have my girls. It will be a 4 hour flight. What should i expect?
Also, any ideas of what to do while we are there? I went as a child so I'm more interested in doing stuff for them. We will be doing the whole deal; Epcot, Seaworld, Animal kingdom, Magic kingdom. You name it, my dad got us tickets.
For the strollers, we plan on hitting a store when the plane lands. We are going to buy two umbrella strollers and just use them for the trip. Our last day, we are going to give the strollers to anyone with kids that wants them so we don't have to haul them back and bring them on the plane.
Ok everyone, thanks for the responses.
We made it safely there and back. The gum really helped for myself and my oldest. My youngest actually transitioned back to the bottle for the trip. The transition back was really easy too. We gave her the bottle for the plane trip and I didn't give in when she wanted it after(she figured out fast that the plane was better with it). She seems to be fine without it again.
We did end up doing the Hollywood Disney, Magic Kingdom, Universal(both halves), Epcot and Sea world. One day per parks and we worked out that we would only get souvenirs the last days(last of the Disney, end of the day at sea world and last day at universal.) I would have to say it was really nice of my mom to take care of expense for me but the girls were getting spoiled by the end.
My baby brother(10) just had his birthday while we were at the parks and having him seemed to really help at the boring for toddlers parts. My oldest is also 4'3", really tall for her age and was able to go on a lot of rides. Having those pictures and memories made it a lot easier to not buy every toy we saw! My favorite was her and myself on Splash Mountain.
We also did buy two cheapo umbrella strollers while we were down there. They ended up being tourist cheap(20 each) but at the price to rent them everyday we saved a lot. On our last day we met this father(native to Florida) that was going through a divorce and he was soo thankful to us for giving him the strollers. He understood that it would mean that we didn't have to take them on the plane/throw them out but just the opportunity pleased him. I am really happy to have gotten to help him out. One reason we didn't bring them also was that we didn't stow any luggage, we each had a carry-on and a personal item(fanny packs and purses), it cut the airport time down a lot.
Our transportation was taken care of by the hotel to and from the parks, we ate nearby so we never needed a car. The girls loved the shuttles and we even named a stuffed seal from Sea world after our favorite shuttle driver, Giovanni.
We are already talking about going back next year. This time we will have to actually do the meal deals because they really seem to be worth it from what i have heard. Anything else you might want to hear about, go ahead and contact me. It was a blast
I would suggest bringing any kind of toy that keeps them occupied for a while. Coloring sheets wouldn't be a bad idea either. Good luck!
Skip Epcot. They won't appreciate it. The Magic Kigdom is where all the main fun is at that age and MGM has good stuff for that age too.
Rent their strollers, they are soooo nice and probably the lightest ones I've ever used.
I personally wouldn't take any kids that can't walk all day but that's me. I see kids just melt-down there because they are so over stimulated. Take a mid day break for naps for EVERYONE!
If you go with the mind set that you WON'T see and do it all you'll be much happier. It's nearly IMPOSSIBLE to do it so don't try.
I'd skip Epcot with 2 toddlers if you can change those tickets.
If your 4 yr old is allowed chewing gum, have that on hand for take-off. I remember as a child, the pressure change during take-off being almost unbearable. (doesn't bother me now as an adult). I think it's the chewing and swallowing that is what helps, so a snack might have a similar effect. We always got chewing gum.
What to do while you're there? It's more what NOT to do. You've got tickets for everything, but don't try to cram too much in to one day. I think when we went, my family did one day per Kingdom. They mixed it up with doing different things, a couple of rides, a show, lunch, a walk, etc, not just a whole day of rides. They also seemed to keep a slower pace- of course as kids we didn't know how much we actually needed that. We took time each day just to hang out at the hotel pool too, usually at the end of the day. It's a good way to wind down before bed.
I remember Epcot being B-O-R-I-N-G as a kid, so keep that in mind when you do that one, maybe bring some busy-activity toys or books for when the kids get bored.
I'm sure my sister and I wanted to buy every thing we saw while we were there, but what I know we came home with was a Goofy hat each. We wore and played with those hats for years until they completely fell apart.
Don't be surprised if the costumed characters frighten rather than delight. To a small kid they are HUGE! The prince and princess people were a lot less scary, so if you do one of those "dinner with the cast" things, keep that in mind too.
Have loads of fun!!!!
I know I'm a couple of days late here, but I would second those who said beware of doing too much. This is kind of blunt, but that's an awful lot of activities for kids that young in one vacation. That said, they will LOVE the Magic Kingdom! We took our kids to Epcot when they were 5 and 8 and even at those ages they didn't really enjoy or appreciate Epcot. It was a difficult day. Depending on your children and their interests, Seaworld might be a little tough too. Whatever you decide to do I recommend starting early in the day, take a break for nap and when it's really hot and then head back later or just spend some downtime in the pool. I know from personal experience that little kids on vacation need some downtime and rest. What a great gift from your dad! He is very generous and I hope you have fun.
Hello-
Disney World is one of our most favorite places. We went last year with 2 kids --ages 12 & 1 and again this year--13 & 2. We split up with the kids quite often as interests were different. The 2 year old loved the shows and character meals the best. We planned a "down day" in the middle of the week where we slept in a bit and just did what we felt up for--catching up on sleep. If we didn't it made the whole trip miserable. We took many pictures last year and put them into a photo album and even at 1 she remembers so much of the trip!! We got a free Disney vacation planning DVD you can get from the Disney website which helped show where we were going. We watched Disney movies before going to help familiarize with most of the characters. As for the plane ride, we brought a portable DVD player, aquadoodle, little tins with Disney character magnets (from WalMart), and color/coloring book. We used Benadryl on the flight to dry her up so to speak. She has ear tubes but a pharmacist told us that the Benadryl will help alleviate any of that head pressure they may experience and make a little drowsy on the flight when they may be too excited. Only one night did we stay late enough for fireworks. It worked better to leave earlier to get back to the hotel for bed and try to stay somewhat on the same sleep schedule.
Have a magical trip!
Hi,
First the plane ride..make sure everyone is chewing something when taking off until the plane levels out. This will help keep your ears from plugging. Bring a color book or something for the kids to doodle on to keep them busy.
Second Disney World..This is our absolute favorite place to be! I would suggest going to a book store and buy a book about Disney World with Kids, I think Bierenbaum has one. We have been to Disney several times and we still buy their books. Hopefully you are staying on property because it is so much easier. Depending on when you are going you may want to bring rain ponchos. Hurricane season starts in June and it rains for short periods almost every day until about October. The ponchos are expensive to buy there. Don't let the rain wreck your day..it doesn't usually last long.
Have a blast and take lots of pictures!
T.
While it is VERY nice you got the tickets to go on this trip...the girls probably will not remember much of it, so, I would steer clear of stressful situations. Long lines, crowds, different schedules. This is super nice this trip is paid for, but it will not be much fun for anyone if everyone is crabby and tired.
On the plane have books, aqua doodle...things that don't have little parts and pieces that can be dropped.
Have a ton of fun!
You're going to have a great time!! I would get Birnbaum's guide at the bookstore, rent the strollers at DW, skip Epcot, except perhaps the aquarium, and spend the majority of my time at Magic Kingdom. We took our daughter for the first time when she was 3. At 31, she STILL remembers parts of that trip that you would think a small child would not remember! We took her and our two grandchildren last year. The boys were 4 and 1. While the 1-year-old doesn't talk about the trip, he loves all the Disney characters. The 4-year-old, who is now 5, talks all the time about things we did. Follow the suggestions to stay on the property, if you can. We stayed at the value resorts and loved them. You can take water bottles in to the park. Just put them in a small insulated cooler, then you can refill them at the park. Sure saves on buying too many soft drinks! You can also bring in snacks -- crackers, etc. Midday naps were also a blessing for all of us to get out of the heat and let the kids rest. Also, one park opens early every morning if you are staying on the property. We always went early to that park and were able to do things that might normally have long lines (safari at Animal Kingdom, Dumbo ride at Magic Kingdom, etc.) without the wait.
Have a great time!
Hi K., we just got back from DW in Feb. with our kids, they are 10 and 8 years old, so I don' have too much info. for what you should do ride wise, but I do want to share with you what I wish we wouldn't have done...we just did WAY too much at once, we went steady, 10-12 hrs a day just wanting to see and do everything possible!! We also went to all the parks except Sea World,we went to a water park, but we only took a half of a day to rest by the pool, which was very nice.
So when we got back from our "vacation" my kids were sick!! I know our own fault, but that's why I stress to other people, take it easy and enjoy your surroundings!!
Also if your going in their summer time, be aware of how hot it's going to be for them, go early in the morning, then go back to your hotel and rest, then go back to the same park after dinner.
Have fun, the parents seem to have as much fun as the kids:)
In the Magic Kingdom there is what is called Mickey's toontown it is great for toddlers who like to get out and run around. They have a little play area like you would find at a park. The Small World ride is also a lot of fun for all ages. If you go to disneyworld.disney.go.com they have what is called a Mom's Panel Advice under the"Plan" tab that is really helpful in planing what rides would be best for your kids.
HAve a great trip!
Hi K.,
For the plane ride, (and specifically for your 2 year old) you can bring liquids in addition to the 331 rule and still make it through security. The key is to bring only unopened, sealed beverages. Drink box type things work well. Horizon Organics makes a drink box for milk that we take whenever we travel. You can buy them at Target. You should also pack any liquids that are specifically for your child separately so its easy to pull out for security. You will need to tell the security person checking you that you are bringing something through for your child BEFORE it goes through the scanner. (I just toss them in a plastic grocery type bag and stick it in my carry on. Then when I go through security, I pop it in it's own tray and let the TSA agent know what it is.)
We traveled a lot over the last 2 years with our baby (now 20 month old).
Other tips:
- if your 2 year old uses a pacifier, it's great for take off and landing
- aqua doodles are great for no mess activities
- get your 4 year old a kid backpack and have her pack some of the activities to carry on
- get to the airport early! its way less stressful
- flight attendants will love you if you pick up flying cheerios. also tell them its your first time flying and they will help you out and give you tips. most importantly, keep your kids buckled in at all times.
- not all flights have changing tables so ask when you get on which bathroom has one
- bring "new" toys and plan for one new play thing at least each hour of your flight. short attention spans!
- if there is any chance, schedule naptime for the plane ride! although, your girls will probably be very excited with this new experience, a nap is a nice break for you during the ride.
Have a wonderful time. Try not to rush through and see everything so you can enjoy just being with your kids on this adventure!
That is AWESOME! Good for you! My parents live in Orlando, so actually we have been to Magic Kingdom twice with my son, who is 3. First, for the plane ride, bring snacks and stuff for the kids to do...including lots of sticker sheets--they're easy to pack and can provide a good activity for a time as the kids put stickers on activity books you bring or in the magazines on the plane. Second, for the parks, bring a backpack with snacks and especially WATER for the kids, as it is a little spendy for that stuff in the parks (yes you can bring that stuff in). And good walking shoes and a stroller is a must (although they do have strollers you can rent at the parks if needed). And I would skip EPCOT if you have the option...it's really more for the older crowd, with fewer kid rides. Third, HAVE FUN!
Bring a good stroller, walking shoes and snacks! You'll be fine and have a great time!
When I took my kids to DW, I checked out Fodor's Guide to Disney World from the library. It had some invaluable tips on how to avoid lines and make everything easier. We liked Animal Kingdom the best. There a many rides that have complete darkness on them or other scary things. For instance, the Bug's Life thing at Animal Kingdom scared my kids. There aren't any signs posted, so I would ask people with kids about which things to avoid. Also, amusement parks are exhausting, so don't try to do too much.
K.,
We took our kids to Disney World when they were 4 1/2,3 and 9 months and we had a great time. If you can swing a room on site at Disney, it's the way to go. We stayed at the Pop Century Value resort and paid $62 per night in 2006. With the recession and the Swine Flu scare, you can probably get as good of a deal. The major benefits are...
1. Close to the parks, which means you can go early in the morning before the crowds, leave after lunch and have nap or rest time when the parks are the most busy and it's the hottest. In the late afternoon, come back and see some more, have dinner and go back to the room when your kids are done. We followed this schedule and never once had a meltdown the week we were there.
2. Free transportation to and from the airport and to and from the parks. Not having to rent a car and pay for parking saves money and hassle. FYI - they will pick up your luggage from the airport and take it directly to your room, but you will beat your luggage by up to three or four hours, so pack appropriately.
3. Option for dining package. I don't know how the deal is anymore, but when we did it, it was $35 per day for adults and $10 per day for kids over 3. (Includes tax, tips, desserts and drinks.) It covered one "sit down" restaurant meal, one fast food meal and one snack per day. They let you split meals, (except for the character meals because they are all you can eat family style) so it was plenty of food for the whole week. We loved the character meals! We got to see the characters while we ate and saved the rest of our day for rides and shows. Once a year, they even offer the dining package for free when you book a room onsite.
Other things I learned:
Be prepared for rain - heavy rain. Bring umbrellas or rain ponchos or a stroller tarp or something.
Because we were on a budget, I bought a bunch of Disney stuff at Walmart, eBay and Disney store clearance and packed it with us. We had glow sticks for the parades, new PJs, princess dolls, Disney fruit snacks, souveniers, etc. The only souveniers we bought in the parks were those pressed pennies you get out of the machines.
Disney is great about letting you bring in food and drinks for kids, so pack up the diaper bag with snacks, etc.
Take advantage of fast pass, baby swap, etc.
You can get on the Disney website ahttp://disneyworld.disney.go.com/ nd request a free DVD that goes through the parks and shows you what there is to do. They will also send you a useful map. The website is great for planning, especially when your children don't meet the height requirement for some rides.
www.mousesavers.net and www.allearsnet.com are great tools.
** FYI - It's the big thing to have your little girls come to the parks dressed in princess dress up gowns and crowns. Smart moms have their girls wear comfy sneakers underneath. The parks sell the dresses, but they will rob you blind for them. If you want to do this, buy them at Walmart or Target or something and bring them with you. My daughter was never the "princessy" type, so I made matching jumpers for my kids for each day in Disney prints. They loved dressing up, they were easy to keep track of because they had these loud, matching prints on their clothes, and it helped us to resist the temptation of buying $27 t-shirts.
Good luck,
S.
I have taken my son on a plane when he was 9 days old and goes pretty often he is 2 1/2 and has been on several times. i wld suggest a portable DVD player with movies or crayons and coloring books, books you just want to keep then quiet on the plane. you can always call Disney to see if they have strollers cuz you will need them espeically with 2 toddlers there's so much to do and see there you don't want them wandering off on you!
have a great time!
What a great present from your mom! I've taken my kids to Disney a few times (when my oldest was 2, when she was 3 1/2 and youngest was 3 months and in March for her 5th bday and youngest was 1 1/2).
First, I'd suggest getting the Unofficial Guide to Disney. It has great "touring plans" to help avoid lines and lots of tips on traveling with kids. It also has rating systems for the rides to help know what to go on, or avoid, with kids.
Second, I think leaving the strollers in FL is a great idea, but I'd strongly suggest buying the strollers here and taking them with you to the airport. MSP Airport is a LOT of walking. My 5 year old can't make it through there at a decent pace if the gate is a long way away (which it always is, it seems). Otherwise, you will definately end up carrying one, if not both, kids through the airport. You can use the stroller all the way to the gate (down the jetway, even) - just get a stroller tag at the checkin counter. Then, bring the stroller to the jetway and drop it off right before you get on the plane -- it will be waiting for you when you get off. It's a bit of a pain to go thru security with the stroller (you have to fold it up and put it through the scanner thing), but absolutely worth it in my opinion.
Finally, I suggest going to www.disboards.com. It's a GREAT (and sometimes overwhelming) site with lots of suggestions from people who go to Disney all the time. There's a family travel board with lots of tips on it.
One more thing -- I used to agree on the don't take kids to Epcot idea that many have said. But, when we went there in March, my kids had a GREAT time at Epcot. There's a wonderful "princess" bfast or lunch at Norway in Epcot. When we were there, we ran into a Mariachi band and my girls danced for at least 30 minutes, and my oldest got to "play" a violin with the band. There are cool "dancing" fountains that are fun to watch and lots to explore there. Still, Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom are my favorites - Hollywood Studios is a good 1/2 day with kids that age -- there are a number of shows they'd enjoy (like Playhouse Disney).
Have a great trip!!!
K.
Hi K.!
We went there last year w/my 5 1/2 year old, it's so much fun for them! Animal Kingdom has a REALLY cool Little Nemo show, but don't sit right next to the stage, sit kind of in front of the stage so you can view the whole thing and not have to keep turning your head.
Getting signatures of the princesses is fun, but when we went there was a lot of waiting in line, but at Magic Kingdom, there is Ariel in the Grotto area, then where all the Mickey and Minnie land is, I can't remember what it is called off hand, but there is an air conditioned building where you can meet and get pics w/3 of the princesses, if I remember, I'll email back. Oh they have a great light parade and fireworks at Magic Kingdom, and Tinkerbell flies out of the castle to start it. Have a GREAT time! Oh and the Orlando airport doesn't sell gum, so make sure you get some before hand for the plane ride home.
Hi K.--
We just took our children to Disney world in October. Two boys, 4 and 3. It was their first time on an airplane and they did great!! We had a large carry on bag with a few new books they had never seen, some of the crayola magic color paper/markers, and plenty of snacks!!! We also took our own sippy cups that were empty due to the security checkpoints. When we got through security we filled them up with water, or bought milk/juice. We also had plenty of gum and explained to them their ears may feel funny for a bit, but if they can chew the gum would help. It worked out very well for us and hopefully will for you too!! Have a great time!
