Hello Ikeyla,
Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel with great questions.
My experience with my 6-year-old daughter and with my sister when she was around the same age is that they tire easily and cannot keep the same pace as adults. We absolutely always travel with a stroller, so I suggest that you take yours everywhere or
rent one if you leave it at the hotel.
What also helped and avoided meltdowns was taking constant breaks. We noticed that when we did so she did not spend too much time in her stroller. On our last visit to Magic Kingdom Park we stopped by Gaston’s Tavern where she sat at a table to color pictures. She also enjoyed sitting down for parades, and having snacks and just playing around wherever we were. Epcot is great because they offer
Kidcot Fun Stops, which are great places to relax and give them a break. Taking those constant little breaks really made all the difference. There is no recipe to get kids used to walking long distances, especially when they are not used to doing so. My recipe to avoid breakdowns is to have a stroller at all times and take breaks.
As for adjusting to time difference, my daughter is quick to adjust to different time zones when we travel, especially for smaller differences like 3 hours. Each child is unique, but for small differences like that I try to adjust meal times and bedtime to the new time zone. On the day we arrive and on the following day we do not visit parks so that she can rest and adjust. You will find us by the pool or at Disney Springs.
I hope these tips help you while planning. Please stop by with more questions.
Best magical wishes,
Thiana