LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. — Traveling with toddlers is easier than ever at Walt Disney World Resort if you plan ahead, pace yourself and take advantage of the many added conveniences for children ages 5 and under.
About little ones:
- Plan to arrive to the parks early and take a break in the middle of the day for lunch and afternoon naps (for parents and tots). Head back to the theme parks in the late afternoon after everyone is well-rested and ready for more fun.
- Baby Services locations are ideal for moms with infants. Located at all four Disney theme parks, the private rooms offer rocking chairs and low lighting for nursing mothers, feeding rooms with highchairs, bibs and plastic spoons, plus diaper-changing rooms. Baby-care products such as disposable diapers, pull-on rubber pants, formula and teethers are for sale.
- No need to pack up all the baby gear for a trip to Disney. In-park stroller rental ($15 a day, $13 a day for length-of-stay rentals) makes traveling through the theme parks easy. Reserve cribs in advance at one of Disney’s resorts. Bed guardrails are available upon request.
- In-room baby-sitting services (407/828-0920) or The Neverland Club (407/939-3463), a resort-based child-care program, are a great option for parents looking for a night out without the little ones.
- A theme-park “rider switch” policy gives both mom and dad a chance to enjoy the latest attractions without the double wait. A parent who waits with a young child while the other parent rides the attraction can get on the ride with minimal wait time once the first parent comes off.
- While youngsters are typically captivated by all of Walt Disney World Resort, be sure to seek out attractions and activities that are appropriate for little ones. (Some attractions may be too spooky for tykes.) Sure hits: “The Seas with Nemo & Friends,” The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, it’s a small world, Dumbo, the Flying Elephant, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, “Mickey’s PhilharMagic,” Mickey’s Toontown Fair, “Playhouse Disney-Live on Stage,” “Jim Henson’s MuppetVision 3-D,” “Festival of the Lion King,” TriceraTop Spin and The Boneyard, plus daily parades.
- If available, choose a seat located near the back or side of attractions for a quick exit.
- There are baby-changing stations in all bathrooms, including men’s and family rest rooms.
- Most Disney restaurants offer children’s menus, plus crayons and coloring books to keep kids entertained. Character dining — where a cast of characters visits your table while you eat — is a great way to introduce little ones to Disney characters. For more information or to make reservations, call 407/WDW-DINE.
- Be prepared for the Florida sunshine. Bring extra sunscreen, a hat, umbrella, plus a sweatshirt for chilly, air-conditioned theaters.
For more information on kid-friendly options at Walt Disney World Resort, contact 407/824-4321.
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