Hi MaryAnn, welcome to planDisney!
Reading (and rereading) your question gives me the biggest smile. I am the proud granddaughter of proud grandparents who I have to thank for the many magical memories that helped form the person I am today. I recently discovered my identification card from my first visit to
Walt Disney World Resort when I was five years old. My grandparents treated me to a stay at Disney's Contemporary Resort and the rest, as they say, is history. Looking back, the core memories I have from each Walt Disney World Resort vacation spent with my grandparents add up to one big ball of warm and fuzzy feelings or, as I like to call it, Disney magic.
Guests over the age of three require
valid admission, a theme park reservation for each park day, and a
method of entry (MagicBand, MagicBand+, Disney MagicMobile pass, or admission card). Guests under the age of three, including your grandson, are Guests of Mickey Mouse and do not require any of those things. Isn't that great?! When entering a theme park, your grandson can just smile and wave at the Cast Members like the VIP he is. After entering your first theme park, I highly recommend stopping by
Guest Relations or one of the indoor retail locations to get your grandson a "1st Visit!" button. It's a good thing your little guy will be accompanied by a couple of proud grandparents to help manage all of the extra attention. If you haven't already done so, MaryAnn, please check the
theme park reservation availability calendar and make
theme park reservations for the adults in your party as soon as possible.
Visiting the parks with a toddler during the heat of summer, my top tip is to take advantage of the
Baby Care Centers that are conveniently located in each theme park. These spaces are a great place for kids (and grandparents) to cool off, recharge, and refresh. They offer large changing tables, restrooms, a seating area with a television, and a kitchen with a microwave and sink. Another great place to hang out with a toddler is the indoor play area located in the queue for Dumbo the Flying Elephant. Even if you don't plan on riding the attraction, your grandson can spend time exploring under the air-conditioned big tent.
As a teacher, I often remind myself that my students may not remember everything I say, but they'll always remember how I made them feel. Similarly, your grandson may not remember every character he meets or every attraction that he rides next week, but I can assure you he will always remember feeling loved beyond measure. Have a wonderful vacation and thanks so much for trusting planDisney with your question.
Choose magic,
Jennifer