Visiting Disney World with Toddlers

There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the astonished look in a child's face as they enter Walt Disney World for the first time. Though your first visit with your little one can be a lot of fun, it can also become stressful for you if you are not aware of the following tips:

• Some children may be intimidated by characters they haven't met before. Go with them to approach the Characters so that the children are less intimidated.



• There are baby-changing stations in all restrooms.



• Check out Disney's FASTPASS® Service that lets you spend less time waiting in line and more time enjoying the Parks.



• Don't forget a towel and swimsuit for water fountain fun. The fountains at the Downtown Disney® Marketplace are a great place to play!



• Take a midday break or nap when you visit the Parks. Relax at your Walt Disney World® Resort, then go back in the late afternoon when everyone is rested.



• Walt Disney World® Resort Guests enjoy early admission to select Theme Park attractions with paid admission. Times vary by Park.



• Mickey's Toontown® Fair is a great place to meet Characters at the Magic Kingdom®. To see Mickey, go to the Judge's Tent.



• Introduce your child to a Disney Cast Member and specifically point out the Cast Member's unique name tag. If your child should get lost, any Cast Member can help him or her find you.



• Take advantage of babysitting and child care services at Walt Disney World® Resort hotels.



• Carnation® Comfort baby centers, located at each Theme Park, offer a quiet place to get away or have a snack. They are equipped with kitchens, rocking chairs and supplies - at a nominal charge. Locations are indicated on the Park Guidemaps.



• Milk and other healthy meal options are available in most Walt Disney World® Resort restaurants.



• All Walt Disney World® Resort restaurants - with the exception of food carts and counter-service dining - have high chairs and booster seats.



• If your child is too young to ride an attraction with height restrictions, try this. One parent may wait with the child while the other parent rides the attraction, then switch at the end of the ride. There's no additional waiting in line.



• There are lots of sunny days in Florida, so don't forget your sunscreen and hat. Also remember to bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes.



• Take advantage of quiet activities like storytelling, feeding the ducks or people-watching to take a break between high-energy attractions.



• Measure your child's height before arriving at the Park so that children know which rides they will be able to enjoy ahead of time. This avoids the disappointment of discovering this information too late.



• One of the best ways to spend time with Disney Characters up close is by dining at a Character meal. For reservations call (407) WDW-DINE (407-939-3463).



• Don't forget to bring autograph books! All Characters are pleased to sign autographs.



• Disney photographers are frequently available to take photos when you meet a Disney Character. Photographs may be purchased two hours after they are taken.



• Magic Kingdom® Guest Tip! - Watch for Tinker Bell to fly down from the tallest tower on the castle. Look for the sparkles right before the fireworks!