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Mom And Son Running through park; RunDisney; incredibles shirt
  • On Nov 18, 2009
    Dana from NH 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.

    Hi! Really crazy question...how do you explain to extremely inquisitive toddlers who LOVE everything disney why the mickey characters don't talk?? I fear my 5 and 3 yr old girls will be really upset. They tell me they can't wait to talk to Mickey! Thanks!!

    Hi, Dana!  While I have to admit, I have never had any of my own children ask me why Mickey Mouse and friends don't speak, I have heard several really great comebacks from other parents with more inquisitive children!.

    My favorite answer about why the characters don't speak is that the characters DO speak!  They use hand gestures and body movements to speak so they have the ability to communicate with ALL children, regardless of what language the child speaks.  Mickey doesn't want to upset a little one who maybe doesn't speak English by not being able to communicate, so a method of communicating is used so no one's feelings get hurt.

    I have heard some parents tell their children that a bad cold is going around, and the characters all have laryngitis.  Of course, if you plan on returning with your children at some point, they might begin to wonder if Mickey and friends might need better medical care!

    On a very recent trip to Disney World, I actually overheard a dad tell his son that the reason the characters don't speak is because it's flu season, and they don't want to spread germs.  I'm not sure this will work in the middle of summer, but it seemed to satisfy this particular little boy's curiosity.

    Another answer I have heard over the years is that the characters have to perform in a lot of parades and shows in their work at Walt Disney World, and when they aren't on stage or in a parade, they have to save their voices so they don't get laryngitis and are unable to perform in the shows.  That would disappoint all the guests waiting to see them! 

    I hope your girls understand and still find the characters magical!
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Meet the Panelist: Anna, New Jersey

My name is Anna and I am a retired teacher with a J.D., a proud Navy wife with 30+ years of experience, mom to three daughters and a son-in-law, and grandmom to three tiny Disney fans. I have planned vacations for all sorts of special occasions and celebrations, but I really enjoy DVC vacations, helping military families, and assisting those with special dietary needs.    Learn More About Anna

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