Hi Jessica,
Welcome to planDisney!
It's always my pleasure to say hi to a fellow parent of teenagers! According to the current
Walt Disney World Resort® Property Rules, teenagers at least 14 years of age and older can visit the theme parks independently. Our girls also love to have a day to explore on their own. So, I encourage you to make that
advanced dining reservation and also consider booking an Individual
Lightning Lane Pass for them to experience an attraction.
Be sure they have the
My Disney Experience Mobile App downloaded. My girls have the app downloaded and they log in with my account since I manage almost everyone's plans. One of them has her own My Disney Experience account because she traveled with another group with out us on a prior trip. They need to be able to see plans in the mobile app and they can also check wait times for attractions. Also, I encourage you to make sure they understand all of the
Resort Transportation options so that they can get back to the resort hotel safely.
Consider the spending money they will or will not have. We typically save as a family prior to our trips so the girls know how much they each have in spending money. When they are off on their own, they like to shop as well. Having taught economics to high school students, I am always glad to see them practicing skills like looking for discounts and comparison pricing. My husband and I have had quite a few laughs at how frugal they can be when using their own money!
Jessica, this is truly a special time! If you have
Memory Maker, make sure they take a few photos with Disney PhotoPass® Service photographers and remind them to scan for those photos so that they get linked in My Disney Experience. Sending a little extra pixie dust trusting that they have a wonderful time on their own and you have lots of fun to discuss!
Magic and memories,
Donyell