Hi Lacey, and welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! Mine is also a military family, and we take full advantage of the fantastic military discounts offered at Walt Disney World Resort.
I think you’re asking about
MagicBands, which are wristband-style wearable technology that can be used to enter the theme parks, open resort hotel rooms, access FastPass+ touchpoints, and much more. MagicBands are complimentary with a Walt Disney World Resort hotel reservation, so if you'll be staying at a Disney Resort hotel, each Guest on the reservation will receive one. You can customize your MagicBands in your
My Disney Experience account, choosing from a selection of colors and adding names inside the bands. If you're a U.S. resident, the MagicBands will be shipped to you about 30 days before your vacation.
Lacey, MagicBands are not tracking devices, but if your child becomes separated from you, a Cast Member can scan their MagicBand to access your contact information. The purpose of a MagicBand is more about Guest convenience – every time I return from Disney, I wish I had a real life MagicBand to get into my front door and pay at Starbucks.
If you won't be staying in a Disney hotel, you may still purchase MagicBands. You can order them via
ShopDisney and then, once they arrive, link them to your My Disney Experience account. MagicBands are also available for purchase in gift shops all around Walt Disney World.
I hope I helped with your question, Lacey! Please come back and see us if you have any further questions or if I misunderstood. It's always a pleasure to help another military family plan their together time.
Wishing you a magical vacation,
Robyn