Hi Amanda,
How exciting that you are planning you are planning your first cruise! I'm glad you've found the Moms Panel, this is the ideal place to come with all of your vacation planning questions.
The beauty of cruising is that just about everything is included! Specifically regarding childrens activities, you can pretty much follow the rule - if it's on the ship, it's included (with the exception of the arcade games and internet usage). All of the
Oceaneer Lab activities are included in your cruise fare. Once you have initially registered your child for the programming, he will be able to participate in a little or as much as he likes. There are schedules of activities provided daily and he is free to join in at any time (registration for individual activities is not required).
Now any
port adventures (snorkeling, parasailing, banana boats, etc.) are not included in the cost of your cruise.
Hope this helps!