Hi Brittany,
Our son’s first visit to Walt Disney World Resort was when he was 6 months old and he had 4 other trips after that one, all before he turned 3! My husband and I were Walt Disney World Resort addicts well before our son was born, so I totally understand your situation. I’ll admit, it was a bit of an adjustment at first, but my first visit with my little guy was a truly magical experience once I started going with the flow and adapting to his schedule and rhythm.
Although I’ll always recommend more days rather than fewer for any Disney Parks vacation, it’s especially important with an infant. There are several factors that weigh in favour of a longer stay. First, you’re going to want to factor in a long nap time break in the middle of the day, especially when the heat and humidity are at their peak. During our visits with our little one, I found that everyone had the most fun when we could keep a schedule that was roughly similar to the one we had at home. In order to let my little guy stay up for fireworks, which he has always loved, we shifted his schedule over by an hour or two so that his naps would take place later (which meant bedtime could be later too).
Second, the things that little ones find fascinating will slow down your previously speedy touring strategy. I can’t tell you the number of hours I’ve spent watching him play in the queue area for
Dumbo the Flying Elephant! Take the time to discover the Parks through your little one’s eyes. It’s a whole new type of Magic, one that is pretty amazing to see.
Don’t forget to check out the
Planning for Pre School Kids and Little Ones page for more ideas!
Have a Magical Day,
Lynne