Hey there, Lee! Thanks for visiting us here at planDisney to ask your questions. It's been quite the year, hasn't it? It's been hard for me as an adult to wrap my mind around everything going on in the world around me, I can only imagine what it's like for small children during this time as well.
Right now, the
current policy is that all Guests ages 2 and above must wear a
face covering at all times over the nose and mouth while at Walt Disney World. Guests may remove their face coverings only when actively eating or drinking when physically distant from others and while remaining stationary. This also means no eating or drinking while in line for attractions. Additionally, Guests may remove their masked in designated areas called Relaxation Stations that are set up throughout the
Walt Disney World Theme Parks. These areas are set up in a way where all Guests are safely spread out and able to remove their face coverings for a break without having to eat or drink. You can simply relax in these areas. Because your children are over the age of 2, they do fall within having to comply with these new regulations for their safety and the safety of all Guests. From what I understand, Walt Disney World will probably keep this face covering policy at least through the rest of this year and we might see it ease up in 2022.
Now I know this is easier said than done, even though my daughter is much older now I do remember what having small kids is like. However, I've seen a lot of small children in the parks since the policy went into place last year so it can be done. I think practice is key here. Talking about your Disney trip with your kids and them having them practice wearing a mask at home for short periods of time might be a great way to get your kids used to wearing them throughout the day. Show them pictures of other kids, just like them, wearing them and having a great time at Walt Disney World. The more you can get them used to wearing a face covering at home, the more likely they will keep it on while you are at the Walt Disney World Theme Parks. If you do end up planning a trip, maybe even make a game out of wearing their face coverings. Let them pick an attraction or two and then reward them with some popcorn which will allow them to remove their face coverings for a little bit. If you are seeing that they are struggling, take full advantage of the Relaxation Stations set up. Let them pick how many attractions they'd like to do before taking a break. Sometimes, even small children, just like to have a little bit of control. I'm not sure if these suggestions will work for you and your children but it's just a thought!
Lee, I hope this helps provide some insight into whether or not you think your kids could handle the rules and restrictions that are currently in place at Walt Disney World right now. If things change, you'll be able to find all of that information on the Disney Parks Blog. If you have any other questions,
I am happy to help!