Hey Howdy Hey Anthony and welcome to planDisney!
In just a few weeks you and the family will be heading to the Most Magical Place on Earth for a vacation full of Magic! While there is so much to look forward to during your trip, we need to review a few attraction experience tips so you are better prepared for your vacation.
With the ages of your kids, independence might be the thing they are getting super into. I know mine were around those ages! As per the
property rules, children under the age of 7 need to be supervised by a Guest 14 years or older while riding attractions. It sounds like your children won't have an issue with most attractions with height requirements, age is the biggest thing that Cast Members will ask about to ensure the safety of all Guests. Unfortunately as well, riding directly behind your kids on an attraction does not count as supervision. We had to navigate this exact scenario a few times in the past and it is possible with Rider Switch.
Rider Switch is an option for families that want to experience attractions but have some of the party that want to ride and others that may not or issues with height and age requirements. This typically works by visiting the Cast Members at the entrance of the attraction and asking about Rider Switch. In my experience, you all will be given Lightning Lane access and one group will go on the attraction while the other waits and then will switch. You or your wife may be given 2 passes so all of your children will have the experience of the attraction on those that seat only 2 per row.
One of the really great parts about Walt Disney World is how it is built around families. Many of the attractions will have seating for 3 or more or the ability of your younger child to sit on a lap. The need to use Rider Switch will not be for every ride and most of the attractions you will be able to experience as a family.
I hope this information is helpful so you can better plan for your Magical vacation. Please stop back and let us know if you have any other questions, we are always happy to help!
To Infinity and Beyond,
Nick