Hi Jennifer,
Bringing your 5-year-old niece to Walt Disney World will be so much fun! My daughter just turned 8 years old, so I remember her as a 5-year-old so well. Here are a few tips from when she was that age.
First, I recommend that you get the
free Disney vacation planning DVD and have your niece watch it before you go, so that she can see what Walt Disney World is all about before you go. I suggest that you have her choose about three attractions at each theme park that she is really interested in. When you visit each theme park, grab a park map and remind her of her choices for the day. Be sure to get those done, and then the day is a success!
Also, a 5-year-old is still pretty young, and she may start to tire out as midday approaches. With a 5-year-old, I suggest getting to the theme park as early as you can - even 30 minutes before the theme park opens for the day. You will be amazed at how much less crowded the park is early in the day. You can do lots of attractions in the morning, and then if she gets tired, head back to your resort for a swim or even a rest. Since you will be there for a week, you will have time to revisit theme parks and do not need to feel like you have to get everything done in one day.
If there are any dining experiences that you absolutely feel you must do, make an advance reservation for them. You do not want to get to a dining experience that your niece really wants to do and find out that the restaurant has no availability. You can
make a reservation for dining at Walt Disney World online, or you can call (407) WDW-DINE (407-939-3463).
I would love to help you continue planning your magical vacation with your niece, Jennifer; however, I am limited in how much space I have to answer. Please do not hesitate to ask if you have any further questions!