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  • On Dec 28, 2011
    Hilda from FL 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.

    We are visiting Disney World again. We love it, but want to avoid the occasional grandkid meltdown. Any tips??

    Hi Hilda:

    I understand your concern. I'd guess most families may experience some crankiness during a vacation. The best tips are to take breaks, stay well-fed and well-hydrated, and follow-your grandchildren's pace.

    Standing in line is when crankiness tends to set in. Like other theme parks, you’ll likely encounter at least some long lines during your trip to Walt Disney World. But here’s the upside: if you are going to wait on a line anywhere, the best place to do it is at Disney World where the queues are well themed, entertaining and full of distractions.

    But as entertaining as some queues are, we all get faced with the impatient toddler or child. While every family is different, my first line of defense is to play a good old-fashioned word game, such as 20 Questions, I-Spy, and Rock, Paper, Scissors. I’ve also found that small surprises from the dollar store at home, like a toy figure or glow stick, can help pass the time. Consider spending some time in line searching for Hidden Mickeys, which are images of Mickey Mouse concealed in a Disney ride or attraction. Snacks, such as fruit, goldfish or granola, also help prevent toddler melt-downs on line.

    During a kid melt-down or whining session, try to think of creative ways to get my kids engaged back in conversation. I usually hand my kids a park map, show them where we are in the park and ask about other attractions they may want to see later that day. I’ll also tell my boys what they may expect on the ride we are about to get on. As a last-resort, I bring out my smart-phone. The boys enjoy when I take pictures and shoot a short video and show it to them. We even pretend to write Mickey e-mails on the phone. If nothing else works, I start making silly-faces and otherwise make a fool out of myself, which always cracks my kids up and distracts them (and others in line) for a bit.

    Enjoy your vacation.
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Meet the Panelist: Jonas, New York

I am a family man and huge Disney fan raising two awesome and rambunctious boys.  As Disney Vacation Club members, we travel to Walt Disney World often. Learn More About Jonas

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