Hey there, Kelly! As a Dad to two little ones, I'm excited to help answer this question! My wife and I have made so many magical memories taking our kiddos to the parks since they were just a few months old.
We took our youngest to the Disneyland Resort when she was six months old, and I'm happy to report that there is plenty to do - including attractions! As you're planning your trip, one of the most helpful resources I've found is the
Attractions and Entertainment list sorted by "Any Height." We especially have loved the
Pirates of the Caribbean and
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. On most of these attractions, it is absolutely fine for your 18-month-old to sit on your lap, though do note that on some lap bar attractions, you'll be asked to have your little one sit next to you on the ride vehicle instead.
I would also highly recommend taking your little one to the
Disney Junior Dance Party in
Disney California Adventure Park! During our family trip in November, we took our kiddos there, and they loved dancing with some of their favorite characters. Also, if you need a nice, slow-paced ride to get some downtime with your 18-month-old, I would suggest taking a round trip on the
Disneyland Railroad. It's a great way for your kiddo (and your feet!) to get some rest after lunch.
You can view this list while in the parks with the
Disneyland Mobile App. When in the app, tap the map icon button on the bottom menu then select "Filters" in the top right. From here, scroll down to the "Height" section, tap "More Options", and select "Any Height." I like using the app because you can quickly see all the attractions in one list, see them all on the map, and filter by park.
During your visit, be sure to also make use of the
Baby Care Centers - these have been absolute lifesavers for us! The centers are quiet, clean facilities that have places to change your little one, feeding areas with high chairs, private nursing areas, and it also has vending machines that offer any items you might need for purchase like diapers, sunscreen, wipes, diaper cream, juice, and more. As hard as we might try to think of everything we need to pack - we still sometimes forget (or run out), so this has been incredibly helpful on our recent trips.
There is one Baby Care Center in each park (you can also view these on the mobile app): one in Disneyland Park at the end of Main Street, U.S.A., next to
First Aid, and one in Disney California Adventure Park next to
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop and across from
The Bakery Tour in Pacific Wharf.
Please feel free to
write me back directly if you think of any follow-up questions!
Have a Magical Day,
Greg