Disneyland Resort Mickey and Minnie Holidays parade; Christmas tree; Christmas apparel
  • On Oct 14, 2024
    Hailey from OR Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    I’m a single mom to 3 kiddos (7,5,3) and I’m surprising them with a trip to Disney for Christmas. We’re only going for one day and I want them to get the most out of it. I’m Nervous about making rides work with the 4 of us and their ages..

    Hi Hailey! Thanks for visiting planDisney.

    What a magical surprise! I'm sure this is a Christmas present you will never forget. I loved taking my little ones to the parks during the holidays, and while my youngest might not remember, I cherish those memories. I took my two alone when they were 3 years old and an infant, and it presented some challenges, but the magic outweighed those moments. I found that Cast Members and other Guests lent me a hand when they appeared to be full. I hope you experience the same kindness!

    At 7 years old, your oldest can ride solo on Attractions. Your mileage may vary on that, of course: I have one that age, and I'm not sure he'd want to ride alone, but I used to take a cousin to the parks who would have considered herself very grown up riding ahead or behind mom and the other kids in a separate ride vehicle. You know your child best, but it's an option you might try on Attractions where the fit might be too tight for more than you and the two smaller children. If you aren't sure what seating arrangements will work on an Attraction, speak to a Cast Member at the end of the queue for guidance. They're always happy to help!

    On Attractions without a height requirement, you can typically hold a small child on your lap as well, which might assist in making your four-person party work. There are Attractions where the four of you will probably fit on one bench, including "it's a small world" in Fantasyland and Pirates of the Caribbean in Adventureland at Disneyland Park. You'll definitely all be able to stick together on Jungle Cruise in Adventureland too. There are Attractions with ride vehicles that have two rows. The youngest will have to ride in your row, but your eldest will be in the same ride vehicle. I suspect you should fit in The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh in Critter Country at Disneyland Park and Monsters, Inc. Mike & Sully to the Rescue! in Hollywood Land at Disney California Adventure Park. This isn't an exhaustive list, because my best advice is to ask! I've been surprised at times when Cast Members figured out a way to group us for an Attraction I thought we might not comfortably fit.

    Also, don't forget that rides are only a small part of the fun. There are parades, shows, fireworks, and entertainment, where you can all be together without concerns about the size of your group. I'm visiting at the beginning of January, and we're looking forward to watching A Christmas Fantasy Parade in Disneyland Park. Look for the perfect spot, park your stroller where the kids can watch comfortably, and entertain them with a snack or two while you wait for the magic to start.

    One last hint, even if your middle child typically doesn't use a stroller anymore, I suggest you bring or rent a double stroller. Those little legs get tired on long park days, and it will be easier to keep track of your little crew with two in a stroller. Just check the stroller rules before you arrive!

    I hope this helps.

    Elizabeth
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Meet the Panelist: Elizabeth, Missouri

Hello from St. Louis! I'm Elizabeth, a professor, wife, and mother to two little boys. We love to travel as a family, and Disneyland Resort is the place where we laugh more and make the happiest memories. We've done everything from solo to big multi-generational trips, and I've got the tips and tricks for traveling with little ones to help ensure your experience is truly magical. Learn More About Elizabeth

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