On
Oct 9, 2012
Anna from FL
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.
“
My husband and I are going to Disney for the first time with our daughter, she will be 15 months when we go, any tips on how to make sure she has fun but doesn't get overly exhausted?”
Hello again, Anna!
Planning a trip with a little one requires a little extra flexibility and forethought, but it will be so worth it to see your little princess's eyes light up while she experiences that magic that is Walt Disney World at this young age. :-)
When we brought our infant and toddler, we made sure to break up the day so that they were well-rested, well-fed and well-hydrated at all times. Early riser? Stay in a WDW resort hotel and take advantage of morning Extra Magic Hours, where Guests get to enter certain parks earlier than other Guests. Those are the perfect mornings to rise and shine, get in early and head out by lunchtime, allowing for a nice long nap in the afternoon. Once your little one is awake, head to a nice leisurely dinner before heading back to a park for the evening. We always preferred early buffet dinners (with Character, of course!) because we can get to our table and head right to the food, no waiting, no coaxing hungry little tummies to be patient while the order cooks. Just sit, eat, relax and leave when she's had her fill.
Be sure to take advantage of the Baby Care Centers which can be found at the four major theme parks. There, you'll find changing tables, high chairs, kid-sized tables and microwaves to heat up food, should you need to do so, all with family-friendly Disney shows on TV right there (a great distraction for the little ones, and older siblings, too!)
Don't push too much; there is so much to see and do, you cannot get it all done in one trip. Select the attractions that are a must-see for you and your family and be sure to schedule downtime each day. You'll all feel so much more refreshed if you've taken a break mid-day or if you even schedule a day, mid-stay, when you'll return for the afternoon nap and simply hang out at your resort for the evening.
Send more questions, too, regarding your accommodations, dining, kids' activities or anything else you can think of. We love to help!