Hi Cindy,
Thanks for coming to the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your great question. Up until our last family vacation, we had never used the different childcare services. However, we used both last June and were thoroughly satisfied.
Yes, as long as you are a guest at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, you can use any of the children's activity centers. There are 5 different locations to choose, however, space available and hours can vary by location. Keep in mind that children must be potty-trained and at least 3 years old and no older than 12 years old. Snacks and dinner are served, which is included in the cost of of your visit. Security is of utmost concern and procedures are taken to ensure this. Activities such as crafts, games (board and electronic), Disney movies, and free play will keep them entertained. My kids didn't want to leave when we picked them up, so needless to say, I think they had an awesome time.
Since my youngest son wasn't old enough to go to the center, we hired an in-room sitter for him. We figured this would also work out well since she could have fun with him and then get him into bed since we planned on a late night. Our sitter came prepared with books, coloring, and games, so that made us feel good about leaving him in the hotel room with very few toys from home. Security, again, was a priority and we were told who to expect and our sitter came with identification and we knew ahead of time that their sitters are background checked.
For more information about both of these as well as rates, see the
childcare services page on the Walt Disney World website. To reserve a spot at any of the children's activity centers, call (407) WDW-DINE. To book an in-room sitter with Kids Night Out, call (407) 828-0920.
Have a magical day!
~Allison L