Mother, Son, Giraffe, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Animal Kingdom, Savannah
  • On Nov 14, 2011
    Allison 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.

    We are planning a trip to WDW May 6-12 in '12. I was able to visit Disney frequently as a kid and now have two kids, who will be 3 when we go, to Share the MAGIC with.How do I plan a first trip that they'll enjoy.. as well as my Hubby, who has never been

    Hi Allison,

    Congratulations on planning your first WDW as a family. While my husband and I had frequented Disney pre-parenthood, it was a whole new world preparing to bring our child for the time!

    First, don't plan to see and do everything. Choose your Must See attractions in each park and then allow time for spontaneous moments. At the age of 3, our son was happy to ride the train around the park or sit with popcorn to watch a parade. He also wanted to see the ducks in the Rivers of America. While we didn't see everything, we shared many priceless memories together.

    Stay rested. Schedule mid-day breaks for naps and/or pool time.

    Your child will be as happy at All-Star Movies as they will be at the Polynesian Resort. Everything at WDW is new and exciting so don't feel that you need to break your budget.

    Find a local theme park or other event that will have costumed characters. Get your child used to characters. We took our son to HersheyPark before our first WDW trip. At first he would wave from afar and weeks later, he would run and hug the walking candy bars. If your child isn't a fan of the characters, you can easily steer clear of them though.

    Plan at least one character meal. Place timid children where they can view the characters walking towards them rather than being surprised by them from behind.

    Your hubby will have the opportunity to see everything for the first time not only through is eyes but also that of his kids. Allow him to escape on a thrill-ride such as Space Mountain (if that's his thing) while you entertain the kids for a second ride on Dumbo.

    I'd be happy to help with more ideas, so just stop back if needed! Magical memories to you and yours!
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Meet the Panelist: Kimberly, Tennessee

I am a stay-at-home mom with a 12 year old son. I thrive on planning vacations, especially to WDW. Inspiring families to vacation at Disney with a memorable itinerary and budget-saving tips is extremely rewarding for me. Learn More About Kimberly

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