Ahoy, Blair!
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! My sailors have grown up visiting the
youth spaces onboard Disney Cruise Line and have made many magical memories while there for secured programming. We love the flexibility of being able to check-in and check-out throughout the day and the variety of activities offered including free exploration. The youth counselors are fabulous, and my children have always enjoyed getting to know them when they visit.
Safety is Disney Cruise Line's number one concern and does have age limitations on bookings. They will not book Guests if there is not space for them to enjoy the youth spaces safely. I reached out to Disney Cruise Line and was told that the ratios are set by the Florida State Guidelines for Childcare, which vary by age. All the counselors onboard undergo a background check and are thoroughly trained. The certification they undergo is under the Division of Family Services.
On the first afternoon of your cruise, the youth spaces will be available for Open House hours. We always enjoy dropping in to explore the areas with our children and to meet the counselors. It's also a great time to get some pictures of your kiddos enjoying the themed areas since pictures are not allowed during secured programming.
I hope my answer is helpful with your planning, Blair. Please let us know if you have any additional questions.
Nancy