Hi Karen!
I completely understanding trying to meet the needs of various age groups on a Walt Disney World vacation! I've traveled with a preschooler and a teenager at the same time and clearly, their ride interest levels (and certain height restrictions) meant there were some attractions that our younger child had to "sit out".
You'll want to check out this information on the
Rider Swap option available at select Disney Theme Park attractions. Guests take turns waiting with youngsters too small
or timid to experience an attraction, then "swap" with another guest from
their travel party to experience the ride without standing in line twice. Simply ask a cast member at the attraction for additional assistance.
Another idea that worked well for our family was scheduling some time for our daughter at one of the
Children's Activity Centers located at several of the Disney Resort Hotels. Choose the center closest to the theme park you were planning to visit and off you go to explore and bond with an older child or perhaps a friend or spouse. This concept works out great when paired with Evening Magic Hours for Disney resort guests as the centers are typically open from about 4pm until midnight.
Thanks
for taking the time to visit us at the Walt Disney World Moms Panel and
feel free to send more questions our way in the days leading up to your
trip! May your Disney vacation be
practically perfect in every way!