I'm a single parent that will be taking my 2 children 10 & 12 this summer but I know 1 will go on some and other won't as its too scary for him. Does Rider switch work for us? Would a cast member stay with the one that does not want to ride?

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Answer 1

Hey there Conway, and welcome to planDisney!

As a proud "Duncle" (Disney Uncle) myself to three little ones, learning the ins and outs of Rider Switch definitely comes in handy - and even allows that lucky little rider the chance to do it twice! With the current winter weather out in Manitoba, I'm sure it feels nice to dream of warmer weather and plan ahead while getting the kids hyped for your trip down here to Florida in July - but it's also a great opportunity to have a conversation with them while setting expectations for the rides and attractions that you may or may not be able to experience. I took the opportunity to chat with Ride Operations Cast Members about your question and am happy to provide fellow Canucks some helpful insights for anyone in a similar situation:

The Cast Members strongly emphasized that they are unable to stay with or supervise children for guests, pointing out the policy stating that children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by a Guest age 14 or older when in the theme parks. Unfortunately in order to use Rider Switch, this policy does not permit you to be able to leave behind either child outside on their own at their current ages while you experience any ride or attraction with the other - especially if you ask the Cast Members to stay with them during that time.

The Walt Disney World Property Rules however, also officially state the following: "To board an attraction, children under age 7 must be accompanied by a person age 14 years or older." This could mean that one child who is eager to ride those rides may be permitted to do so alone if that's something that you're all comfortable with, or that you'd need to have an honest conversation with each other about the attractions you might have to miss this time around.

I remember being a bit wary of riding certain things as a pre-teen myself, with family members either compromising by staying with me or by giving it a brave go despite my fears if it meant a lot for them to be able to ride - personally being able to watch on-ride videos online definitely helped me know what to expect and ease any nervousness about them! I've also observed many single parents at all of the theme parks having a great time with their kids, and a common strategy that I've noticed becoming popular is connecting with likeminded Disney Dads, Moms or even Duncles like me out there on places like social media groups - finding fellow Canadians traveling at the same time to help keep a watchful eye on each other's younger party members if needed. I hope this helps you all make some key decisions about ride during your upcoming trip Conway, but don't hesitate to come back to planDisney again for any other tips or tricks!

Wishing you warm vibes in anticipation for your summer adventure at Walt Disney World Resort!
Prince

I'm a single parent that will be taking my 2 children 10 & 12 this summer but I know 1 will go on some and other won't as its too scary for him. Does Rider switch work for us? Would a cast member stay with the one that does not want to ride?

Meet the Panelist: Prince, Ontario

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I'm a single parent that will be taking my 2 children 10 & 12 this summer but I know 1 will go on some and other won't as its too scary for him. Does Rider switch work for us? Would a cast member stay with the one that does not want to ride?”

Meet the Panelist: Prince, Ontario

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I'm a single parent that will be taking my 2 children 10 & 12 this summer but I know 1 will go on some and other won't as its too scary for him. Does Rider switch work for us? Would a cast member stay with the one that does not want to ride?