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Family With Medals; RunDisney 10K; Stitch Hat; Lilo and Stitch Costume
  • On Nov 13, 2012
    Crystal from LA 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.

    Hi Ladies! My family will be going to WDW for our first time as a family January 19-24 of 2013! I have a 5 year old daughter and I am trying to make sure she gets the most out of the trip. Any ideas? I am planning to do character dinning!

    Hi Crystal!

    So you are planning your family's first trip to Walt Disney World.  That is so exciting!  My son was also five-years-old for his first Disney adventure.  It really is the perfect age to discover the magic of Walt Disney World. 

    I'm glad to hear that you plan to include at least one character dining experience during your trip.  There's no better way to interact with the Disney characters.  I suggest you choose two character meals: one with the princesses (Cinderella's Royal Table or Akershus Royal Banquet Hall) and a separate one with Mickey and friends (Chef Mickey's).  These meals, in addition to any other table service meals you plan to experience, need to be booked in advance by calling (407) WDW-DINE.  Your reservation window opens 180 days in advance of your visit so mark your calendar now.

    Your daughter is old enough to understand the kind of vacation that you are planning so I heartily encourage you to include her as you put together your itinerary.  Visit www.disneyworld.com with her and review the many attractions in each park.  Based on her (and your) preferences, put together a tentative schedule of activities.  This will help her take ownership for her first Disney vacation experience.  She may even want to spend some time decorating an autograph book for the characters to sign when she meets them. 

    If at all possible, stay in a Disney-owned resort.  Then you'll get to experience round-the-clock magic during your stay.  You'll also be able to take advantage of Extra Magic Hours in the theme parks.  Purchase your theme park tickets at the same time you book your resort reservation.  That will make you eligible to include a dining plan (very cost effective!) with your vacation package.

    Please feel free to ask additional questions about your trip!  We're here to help you every step of the way.

    Jill
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Meet the Panelist: Jill, New Jersey

Lesson plans, college plans, vacation plans...as a teacher, college counselor, and incurable Disney fan I find myself constantly planning.  I love to share advice with friends who have yet to experience all that Walt Disney World has to offer! Learn More About Jill

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