Mother, Son, Giraffe, Kilimanjaro Safaris, Animal Kingdom, Savannah
  • On Aug 25, 2012
    Belinda from AL 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 in Sept w/our 5 yr old. My husband and I are both in our 50's. To keep us all from getting too tired, can you recommend something besides a stroller for my son to ride in when he gets tired? People frown when they see an older child in one.

    Belinda,

    I cannot recommend any other means than a stroller, but I can say, with no hesitation, that I have both pushed, and seen others pushing, 5 year olds in strollers at Walt Disney World. I am 46, so I know of the world you speak!

    I really don't see anyone considering that inappropriate at the parks. It is understood that a Disney park vacation involves a lot of walking, certainly more than most families do at home. Heck, the Epcot World Showcase alone is more than a mile around, so we are talking about a lot of feet on pavement!

    I even see tweens in the larger strollers and don't see anyone tsk-tsk-ing them. For most of us to get through this vacation you have to help your kids pace themselves, and strollers, even for kids who may not use them back home anymore, are the rule, not the exception.

    I think people just consider it different there. You should not feel self conscious about this. I don't.

    The only alternatives I can think of to strollers are a wheel chair or ECV, which would probably garner you more sideways glances, or wheelies, which are typically banned in parks.

    I know this was a half answer to your question, but I hope it gives you confidence to do what is best for your family, and not to worry about the reactions of others.

    If you want to ask again, or send any follow-up questions, please don't hesitate!

    Have a magical vacation!
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Meet the Panelist: Doug, Indiana

I am one of the Dads on the planDisney Panel, and I love to help parents plan their vacation, with a focus on showing them how it can be fun for them too. I am also here to help Dads plan some nice surprises for the Moms in their life (they deserve it!). Learn More About Doug

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