Tips and Hints for a Disney World Vacation with a Toddler or Preschooler

For many families, a trip to Disney World is a right of passage. It's a magical experience for everyone, but for the youngest family members (and for adults, too) Disney World can be overwhelming. Four theme parks, multiple water parks, and shopping galore, coupled with crowds, heat, and lines, can make for some grumpy toddlers and preschoolers. Here are a few tips and hints for taking a vacation to Disney World with toddlers or preschoolers.

Even before you hit the well-manicured streets of a Disney World theme park, start your trip right by packing smart. Comfort is key, and on vacation your toddler or preschooler will need comfortable shoes, soft clothes, and weather-appropriate outerwear. Even in Florida evenings and early mornings can be cool, so bring a light jacket. Bring sunglasses and a hat for those sunny vacation days.

When you pack for your toddler or preschooler, remember that little ones may need changes throughout the day. One of the easiest ways to always have an outfit on hand that matches and includes socks, underwear, shorts, and a shirt is to pack each outfit in a gallon size zip-lock bag. Keep an extra bag in each backpack or travel bag with you when you head into the park. That way there is no shuffling through a bag when you need an outfit or looking for that missing sock. Everything you need is already at your fingertips (and nice and dry).

Getting around Disney World with your children can also be a challenge unless you plan ahead. Keep in mind that as you travel the Magic Kingdom your toddler or preschooler has to take about three steps for every one you take. Take plenty of breaks in your day, especially if it is hot outside. Carry water with you in your travel bag or backpack so that you can re-hydrate your children while you wait in lines. Find attractions or shops with air condition to get out of the sun.

For babies and for toddlers, a stroller can be a life saver. Although strollers are available for rent throughout Disney World, if you want to avoid the hard plastic seats of a Magic Kingdom rental stroller try Orlando Stroller Rentals, LLC. You can reserve a single or double stroller through Orlando Stroller Rentals for the length of your stay, and the company will even deliver the stroller right to your hotel or resort so that it is waiting for you when you arrive. These strollers have wonderful sun shades, they are clean, and they have ample storage for any extras you need to carry with you. Having a stroller available for your toddler or preschooler provides a safe, cool spot in the shade for naptime or whenever the Magic Kingdom starts to feel overwhelming.

Although some attractions are geared toward small children, low-key character experiences are a quiet and fun way to experience Disney World. For some toddlers and preschoolers, finding Belle, Cinderella, or Peter Pan at Disney World may be the highlight of the trip. For others, a giant princess or superhero may be overwhelming. Remember that every child is different, and your toddler may not be ready for a hug from a 7 foot pink bear named Lotso that smells like strawberries.

If your toddler or preschooler enjoys character experiences, invest in an autograph book. Searching for characters can be a fun distraction for a toddler or preschooler who might otherwise be bored with EPCOT or tired of wandering a giant theme park.

More individualized character experiences take some advanced planning but are definitely worthwhile if you want to have time to interact with the characters without waiting in line. Advanced dining reservations for the Crystal Palace at the Magic Kingdom, Cinderella's Royal Table at the Magic Kingdom, the Cape May Caf© at Disney's Beach Club Resort, Hollywood and Vine at Hollywood Studios, the Tusker House Restaurant at the Animal Kingdom, or Chef Mickey's at the Contemporary are all worthwhile if you want to dine with the characters. The characters come to each table while you enjoy your meal. Extra hugs, autographs, and fun interaction all occur while you eat, but be prepared to feel a little rushed at times. It is also easy to miss a character if you happen to be at the buffet when they come to your table.

With a little bit of planning, you and your children will have a fun, relaxing Disney World vacation.