Mom And Daughter Laughing together on Hammock at beach
  • On Nov 3, 2013
    Kelli from MI 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.

    Planning to cruise in 2014 when dtr turns 3 to take advantage of kids club. What are the counselor to child ratios in the club? Is staff available to help engage dtr if she has difficulty adjusting? If dtr needs more adult interaction, nursery better?

    Welcome aboard, Kelli!

    Once your daughter turns three, she'll be in for the time of her life on a magical Disney cruise. Of course, children under three have a blast too, but at three, she'll be able to participate in the fun and exciting activities and events in the Oceaneer Club and Lab. The ratio of counselors to children is based on Florida state guidelines, which can change. However, from what I understand it is about 1:15 for those under four, and 1:25 for five to ten year olds. Keep in mind that it varies depending on how many children might be in the club at a time. 

    I can tell you from lots of personal experience that my kids, even when much younger and shy about joining in at first, were warmly greeted and made to feel very welcome by the counselors. They are well trained, super friendly and energetic and know how to spot a child who needs a bit of encouragement to join in on the fun. I have seen counselors gently encouraging shy kids to participate in a fun activity and see how those kids light up to be included. Don't think of the clubs as just childcare because Disney is an entertainment company, so you know that the entertainment and fun your daughter will have in the clubs is top notch!

    I'd suggest stopping by the Club and Lab during the afternoon Open House hours when you first board the ship. There, you can stay with your daughter to help her become adjusted to the spaces, meet the counselors and then just step back and see how she does. Once the secured programming starts, when parents leave their children with the counselors, give it a try, and let the counselors know as you drop her off about any specifics they should know to help her feel comfortable. They'll do their best to be sure she's having lots of fun. All guests receive Wave Phones, which are like cell phones on the ship. The counselors can call or text you if your daughter needs you. It's so easy, Kelli!

    Let me know how else I can help as you continue to plan, Kelli!
thumbnail image for Marcy

Meet the Panelist: Marcy, Ohio

Welcome aboard! I'm the mom of two tween/teen Castaway Clubbers who would live on any of the Disney ships if they could. I would love to help your family discover the magic that awaits you on the open seas with Disney Cruise Line. Learn More About Marcy

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