Mom And Son Giraffe
  • On Jun 3, 2009
    Angie from MO Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    What is the best choice of park for children the age of 12, 9, 8 and 5? We would love to go to Magic Kingdom, but are affraid that it may be to 'young' for the older kids? Please help us in making our decision. Thanks!

    Angie:

    Your children's ages are almost the same as mine—just slightly younger—and I can tell you that the Magic Kingdom appeals to them as much now as five years ago, however for different reasons!

    The first reason: Hidden Mickeys.  I was concerned on a recent visit that I couldn't get my older two "on board"—literally—with riding the youngest ones favorite attraction: Winne-the-Pooh.  But a whim-of-a-purchase saved me: a book titled "Hidden Mickeys" by Steven Barrett.  The kids really got into finding the Mickey heads on the rides!  No more "oh, mom!" when we wanted to ride "It's a Small World"!

    The second reason: structured time on their own.  I have to be honest and tell you that the six of us don't spend every minute at the Magic Kingdom hanging out together.  We just started letting the older ones venture out on their own to ride Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Splash Mountain, and Space Mountain by themselves.  We have a designated time and meeting place and don't split up past sundown.  For good measure, you might want to consider giving your oldest child your cell phone or purchasing pre-paid ones from Wal-Mart and activating it with an Orlando zip code to get local calling. 

    Hope this gives you some things to think about for a magical vacation!
    Whitney
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Meet the Panelist: Whitney, Mississippi

My family of 6 appreciates Disney's value! Although Ft. Wilderness is our second home, we've enjoyed the resorts for business, reunions and romantic getaways. For me, Disney also means dining: last count, I'd eaten at 55 restaurants around the World! Learn More About Whitney

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