Hey there, Jennifer!
Thanks for coming back with another question! Having happy kids in the park is definitely a priority, and I feel like it's usually a mix of preparation, strategy, and luck. A break during the day is a great way to keep kids and adults all feeling their best!
Each family is different, but when my kids were those ages they didn't love sitting and waiting for entertainment too long. Afternoons were also when we tried to nap, so a 3:30 parade might have meant I was waving at Mickey with a sleeping toddler on my lap! The
"Magic Happens" Parade is so wonderful, I wouldn't want your littles to miss a second of it. I would totally make reservations for the
Plaza Inn Dining Package for the parade so you can enjoy lunch (two words: Fried Chicken), take a break for a while, then follow the directions on your voucher to your viewing location for the later showing of the parade.
I like to arrive at viewing areas a little early, so I'd try to reserve lunch as close to 1:00 p.m. as I could, head out for naps right after, then come back ready to see some magic! I just peeked at availability for the dining package and I do see a couple of spots for a party of four on your arrival date...so don't wait too long to make your plans.
With the ages of your kids, I thought it might be helpful for you to see the list of
height requirements for attractions at the Disneyland Resort. Sometimes there's a big difference in height between siblings, so
Rider Switch can be a great way for adults and older kids to experience a ride while someone waits with the younger sibling. This is where it really pays to be the older sibling, because the second group to experience the attraction can be up to three people, so in a family of four the oldest kiddo often gets to ride twice!
Jennifer, don't forget to visit
Mickey's Toontown! Your kids are the perfect ages for all the interactive elements, and I'm sure Mickey would be thrilled to have you visit him at his house. Give him an extra hug for me, ok? Thanks again for your question,
let me know if I can help with anything else!
Keep moving forward!
Amanda