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AA Mom And Kids Mickey Ice Cream Bar; DinoLand U.S.A.; animal kingdom
  • On Apr 7, 2014
    Matthew from GA 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 our first trip to WDW in May 2014. We have a 5 yr old son who is just warming up to characters! Is there anything we can do to make sure his experience is GREAT not terrifying?

    Hello Matthew!  I know a lot of families that have children who are a little on the nervous side when it comes to characters.  Walt Disney World absolutely takes this into consideration! 

    A great way to introduce characters to your son would be to book a character meal (or 2 or 3). Character meals are a great way to see characters without standing in line.  During the meal, your son will be eating so his mind wont be focused solely on the character experience.  You can gauge how your son is feeling in the moment and let your server know if you want the character to stop by your table or not.  If your son seems interested, go ahead and have them come to your table.  If not, it is no big deal to skip out on the meet and greet.  This is also a great way he can see the character without having to have interaction with them.  I think character meals make the experience less overwhelming since the characters are moving around and not you.  It can give the child a sense of "home base".  He will be able to have his things with him and be enjoying eating something he likes. If he feels in control of the situation, it is more likely to be a better experience for everyone.  

    If character meals are not something you are interested in, you can always notify the character's handler (the Cast Member in the front of the line) that your son may be a little overwhelmed and they will notify the character.  Then the character will not be overly in his face which will make the experience less terrifying.  Often times, characters can judge how a child is doing just by looking at them and gauge the interaction that way.  

    I have had wonderful character interactions with my daughter ever since she was a baby.  I think you are going to have a great time.  If you have any other questions, please feel free to let me know.    
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Meet the Panelist: Jackie, North Carolina

I love all things Walt Disney World.  In fact, since becoming Annual Passholders, my family of 3 is always hopping in the car for a quick trip to visit with Mickey Mouse!  I've been known to make the 8 hour each way drive to Walt Disney World (in one day!) to indulge in a Mickey Waffle or enjoy a sunny day at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park.  I may have a small family, but we are always up for some BIG fun at the Walt Disney World Resort.   Learn More About Jackie

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