• On Jan 13, 2020
    Andrea from AK 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.

    I’m considering traveling with my 3yr old. He cannot sit up or hold his head up independently. What rides will allow me to hold him on my lap? Do I have to hold him facing forward?

    Hey howdy hey, Andrea, and welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! We’re so glad you’re hEAR! I’d love to help you plan your Disneyland Resort getaway with your 3-year-old son. You’re going to make so many special memories together!

    I’m happy to report that there are many family-friendly attractions for you to enjoy with your son on your lap. As a rule of thumb, if there is no minimum height requirement posted, or the attraction states it’s acceptable for “any height” or “all ages,” then it should be safe for lap-sitting. To check out these attractions, simply head to the Attractions page, then filter it by “Any Height” under the “Height” drop-down. Currently, there are 64 attractions that show up under that filter. Some of my son’s favorite attractions from this list (he’s also 3-years-old) include Casey Jr. Circus Train, Disneyland Railroad, Dumbo the Flying Elephant, “it’s a small world”, Toy Story Midway Mania!, and Turtle Talk with Crush. Just keep in mind that on attractions with lap bars (such as The Little Mermaid ~ Ariel’s Undersea Adventure and Peter Pan’s Flight) your son will be required to fit under the bar on your lap. I have been asked to flip my son to a forward-facing position on some attractions with a lap bar. However, on attractions with bench-style seating (such as “it’s a small world” or Jungle Cruise) your son should be able to face you, if that’s more comfortable. 

    If you happen to be traveling with another adult or Guest age 14 or older, you may want to take advantage of the Rider Switch service, which allows Guests with children who don’t meet the height requirement to take turns enjoying attractions. 

    Also, be sure to check out the Baby Care Centers, located in each theme park, for the perfect spot to feed, change, or simply take a break. There’s a handy vending machine at each Center, just in case you forget any necessities, like sunscreen. You can find the Disneyland Park location at the end of Main Street, U.S.A., and the Disney California Adventure Park location on Pacific Wharf. 

    Lastly, don’t miss the all-new “Magic Happens” Parade, which debuts in Disneyland Park on February 28! You and your son are going to love the beautiful floats and beloved Disney Characters! Get ready to wave to Moana, Miguel, and Frozen 2 favorites as they cruise by!

    Should you have any additional questions about ways to make your visit more comfortable for you and your son, please stop by Guest Relations upon arrival. Cast Members would be more than happy to assist you in any way they can. 

    Wishing you a pixie-dusted vacation filled with fun, Andrea!
    Kristin
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Meet the Panelist: Kristin, California

Greetings from sunny California! I live less than an hour from the Disneyland Resort, and have been an Annual Passholder (and now a Magic Key Passholder) for more than 20 years! As a mom of three kids ages 5-10, I consider myself an expert at navigating the Disneyland Resort with little ones. My family of five can’t get enough of the magic and happiness we encounter every time we step foot on Main Street, U.S.A. I look forward to sprinkling pixie dust on your next visit to the Happiest Place on Earth! Learn More About Kristin

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