Walt Disney World isn't the pinnacle of childhood vacations for nothing. They've been doing it for a long time, and they know what they're doing. Take advantage of the many trip-building tools available on their website, many of which specify age appropriateness of activities.
Every precious inch makes a world of difference to a preschooler, and this is especially true when it comes to theme parks. Measure your child before your trip and research which rides she's tall enough for. It's better to find out before you've waited in line for an hour that 38 inches just isn't enough to ride Splash Mountain.
Whether you're planning to hurry through everything in a couple of days or you're staying a bit longer, there's a lot of ground to cover. You and your preschooler will be worn out by the end of day one. Proper shoes are a must--something comfortable for your child to be on his feet in for a long time. Tennis shoes are always a good bet.
Another necessity for the long hours spent in the sun for both you and your preschooler is bottled water and a bag to hold your drinks as well as any snacks, souvenirs and maps. You won't want to juggle an armload all day long, and neither will your child, so consider getting your child her own backpack to look after her items.
Even with the eyes of a hawk, your child will be competing with thousands of other kids streaming around the park. It might help you keep track of him if you dress him in bright colors. Another fun accessory can be character ears--Mickey and Minnie are always popular, but Tigger or Eeyore might make him stand out more.
If it looks like rain, carrying colorful ponchos from home will be a big help when everyone is forced to buy matching yellow rain jackets in the park.
Planning for the worst never hurts. Talk to your child about what to do if you are separated. Let her know she can approach any character in the park for assistance if she's lost.
The folks at Disney know that parents should have just as much fun as their children when they visit. It can be disappointing to miss out on rides if a child is too small or doesn't want to go. So Disney offers ride swap, which allows a family to wait in line just once and allows parents to take turns riding while the other stays with the kids, so you don't spend twice the time.
And for parents who need a night out to themselves, Walt Disney World Resorts offers evening drop offs at The Mouseketeer Club and The Neverland Club for the children so they can play while you get away for a few hours.
Don't be shy about asking for children's discounts. Your preschooler may qualify for free or discounted meals or hotel stays at many places around Walt Disney World. The more deals like this you take advantage of, the more you will be able to spend elsewhere.
