Disney with Little Ones-Things To Know

When you consider taking your little one on a Disney trip, you can have a lot of questions and concerns.  What will they be able to do? Where should we stay? Do I need my pack-n-play? Just to name a few.   I’ve compiled some information and answers here to hopefully help you in your research of doing Disney with little ones.

Toddlers at Disney World

A trip with your little one to Disney World is very different from trips that you are probably used to.  You’ll see the parks with a new set of eyes.  The pace is slower, and you have to be ok with that in order for it to be fun but you will probably notice details and things you’ve never noticed before as well.  Toddlers at Disney World is a whole new adventure…trust me!

Disney Trip with Magical Memories for Parents

You will never forget the wonder your little one experiences on their first Disney trip.  People often say their child is too young for Disney, and they won’t remember it anyway which there is some truth to but another piece of truth is that you will remember it.   It is one of the most magical things you experience as a parent.

Guest under the age of 3 get free entry into Disney Theme Parks and Disney Water Parks.

This is a fantastic benefit, especially when they are around 2-years-old, because you’re saving on their ticket but they will get a lot of enjoyment out of the sights, sounds and even rides at the park.

Benefits of Staying at a Disney Resort

Time Saver

I HIGHLY recommend staying  at a Disney resort.  It is such a time and hassle saver.  My favorite park is Magic Kingdom and I do what I can to find a Magic Kingdom resort, which allows us to use either the monorail or boats. All Disney resorts though have transportation, which will still save you from having to lug everything from the parking lot to ticketing and transportation then to the park itself.

  Extra Magic Hours

Resort guest get to enjoy extended Disney park hours.  These Extra Magic Hours offer a rare and unique opportunity to enjoy more time at the park, beyond the standard operating schedule at no extra charge!

Fast Pass+

When you stay at a Disney Resort, you are able to schedule your Fast Passes in advance so that you can spend less time in lines.  You can get passes for select shows, Character Greetings, as well as parade and firework viewing areas.

Disney Resort Benefits

• Pack ‘n Play or crib in each room or available upon request.
• In-room childcare for ages 6 months to 12 years—in partnership with independent childcare provider Kids Nite Out.
• Some locations have fun-filled Child Activity Centers for ages 3 to 12.
• Kid-friendly recreation. All Disney Resort hotels feature kiddie pools (in addition to full-size pools) and many have playgrounds. Some even feature kids-only activities.

Fun Attractions and Experiences at Walt Disney World Parks for Little Ones

Magic Kingdom Park

• Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin
• Casey Jr. Splash ‘n’ Soak Station
• Dumbo the Flying Elephant
• Enchanted Tales with Belle
• Mickey Mouse at Town Square Theater
• Mickey’s Philhar Magic
• Peter Pan’s Flight
• Princess Fairytale Hall
• Under the Sea Journey of the Little Mermaid
• It’s a Small World
• Harmony Barber Shop <–Great for First Hair Cuts!

Epcot

• Turtle Talk with Crush
• The Seas with Nemo & Friends
• Journey into Imagination with Figment
• Epcot Character Spot
• Advanced Training Lab

Hollywood Studios

• Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage
• Disney Junior Live on Stage
• Toy Story Mania
• Voyage of the Little Mermaid

Animal Kingdom

• Affection Section
• The Boneyard Dig Site
• Finding Nemo- The Musical
• Kilimanjaro Safaris Expedition
• Triceratops Spin

In-Park Questions

Is there a Rider Swap option?

Yes! There is a rider swap option at select Disney Theme Park attractions.

What is Rider Swap?

It’s when guest with little ones too small to ride a particular attraction get to take turns riding as opposed to having to wait in a full line twice.  One guest will ride and then they will “swap” with another adult guest from their party to ride the ride without standing in line twice.  Cast Members at the attraction will be able to offer additional information.

Can I rent a stroller?

You can rent single day and multi-day strollers at the parks.  On the Disney Guidemap you will see a stroller symbol for where the rental is available at the park entrance.

Diaper Changes, Nursing, and More

Disney has Baby Care Centers located in the parks that are air-conditioned and offer private rooms with rocking chairs for nursing moms as well as diaper changing rooms and a room with highchairs.  They have cast members constantly cleaning and sanitizing these areas as well.  Also in the Baby Care Center, you’ll find diapers, formula, and teethers available for purchase.   On the Disney Guidemap you’ll see a pacifier symbol notating the Baby Care Center location.  The Baby Care Center is such a big help and can even give you a minute to sit down in the air conditioning after the diaper change or nursing.  As a mom, I found this helpful many times!

Yes, Taking Your Toddler To Disney World Is Worth It

Hopefully these questions have helped.  I completely believe taking your toddler to Disney is Worth it- even if they don’t remember, you will and you’ll have the pictures to prove it.