Disney World is probably the most magical vacation you will take as a family with your kids, but as a Parent, it can also be a bit scary. With so much money and time invested in planning this vacation, you want to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible. Here is what you should know as a parent taking kids to Disney World:

Don’t try and see it all. If this is your first trip, then you may not realize how big Disney World is. It’s just about impossible to see everything, even for a veteran traveler. The best way to set yourself up for success is to decide beforehand what is really important for you and your family to see. If your kids get to see what interests them most, then you’ll most likely end up with a happy kid, which is what every parent wants to see at Disney.

Go with the pace of your child. One of the biggest mistakes I see from parents is trying to push their kids beyond their limits at the parks. A day in a Disney park involves a lot of walking and depending on the time of year, it could be quite hot out. If your child is showing signs of needing a break, then take a break. If you think they are done for the day, then best to call it quits. There is nothing magical about ending your day with a temper tantrum from an overtired child.

Use rider swap. If you have a child that does not meet the minimum required height for a ride that you want to ride, then Disney’s got you covered! Make sure to ask the Cast Member for a rider swap pass at the entrance of the ride. That will allow each parent to get a turn riding, while the other stays back with the child. You’ll only have to wait in line once, while the second rider gets access to the Fastpass line.

Under 3 is free. I always tell parents that your first visit to Disney World with your child is always best right before they turn 3 years old. They’ll get free entry into the parks and they are free at any of the buffet restaurants. Even if they turn 3 while on vacation, as long as they are 2 when you check-in, then they’ll be free.

Know where the Baby Care Centers are. In every Disney park, you will find a Baby Care Center that is available for all parents to use. It’s a place where you can change a diaper, feed your child, breastfeed in privacy and just take a break. It’s a convenient place that every parent should know is available to them should they need to use it.

Consider a stroller. We easily walk 10 miles a day when spending a full day in the parks. That is a lot of walking for little legs. Strongly consider whether you will need a stroller or not. Kids that may not be in a stroller anymore at home, may need one at Disney World. It can be a lifesaver when your kid gets tired and just needs to take a break from all the walking.

Make sure to use Fastpass +. If there is one thing most kids lack – it’s patience! It’s pretty hard for young children to wait in a long line and that is where Fastpass + comes in to play. It is available for free, for every Disney guest. You can select up to 3 rides per day at a park. Choose your top 3 and you will be guaranteed to have a short wait for your top rides. Most Fastpass lines will get you through in about 5 – 10 minutes. That can be a lifesaver if the regular stand-by line is an hour long!

Be in the moment. Disney is a special trip for families. You’ll make a lot of memories and there is magic around every corner. Take the time to soak it all in. Enjoy the looks of joy on your child’s face as they see their favorite character for the first time. Take a moment to just watch your child as they ride some of their first rides at Disney World. Those memories will live in you for years to come and are truly priceless.

What tips do you have for bringing kids to Disney World?

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