Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be overwhelming in itself, but especially with little ones in tow. There are some unique circumstances when travelling with toddlers, so here are few valuable tips to survive WDW with a toddler !

Sandra’s Walt Disney World Tips for Toddlers:

1. Take or rent a stroller, Disney offers discounts for multiday rentals, and a rental is transferred to all 4 theme parks. Little legs get tired very quickly, a stroller is a must have to avoid tantrums.

2. Book character dining. Characters visit and interact with little ones so you can all enjoy your lunch or dinner. Tip: Advanced Dining Reservations are highly recommended, call 1-407-WDW-DINE (939-3463).  Advance Dining Reservations are available at most Full Service dining locations up to 90 days in advance (certain exceptions apply).

3. Take advantage of the “Child Swap” offered at Disney parks on most height restricted rides. One parent/guardian can go on a ride while the other waits with the child. You then “swap”, and the 2nd parent/guardian goes on the ride without waiting. Ask the Disney Cast member at the entrance of the ride about it.  Tip: use Fastpass! (Disney’s system to help reduce long waits at popular attractions) to make the wait for the first parent even shorter!

4. Take a break – go back to your resort for an afternoon swim/nap/snack and go back to the parks refreshed and ready for evening fireworks and parades.

5. Take advantage of early risers, most parks do not get crowded until around 10:30-11am. If you are a resort guest you can take advantage of Extra Magic Hours, where particular parks are open 1 hour before and/or 3 hours after regular park hours on selected days. Check the schedule at the Disney owned resort you are staying at for details.

6. Bring a change of clothes and/or bathing suit & towels. There are water spouts coming from the ground at Magic Kingdom and Epcot. Little ones can have fun getting wet and cooling off. Good luck keeping your kids away from them!

7. Find the Baby Care Centre, there is one located at each major park. This facility is not only great for changing diapers, it also carries a great assortment of baby/toddler supplies and gives nursing mothers a quiet place to feed.  They even have toddler toilets for those who are training!

8. Purchase an autograph book for character greetings. Whether you are at character dining or meeting them at the parks, this is big for toddlers. Tip: don’t forget to put your name/phone number/address inside the front cover. Disney will mail a missing book to you if they have recovered it, and this tip comes from first-hand experience!

9. Keep your child safe and in sight. Sometimes crowds can be overwhelming especially after parades and fireworks. Make an emergency plan depending on the age of your child just in case.

10. Avoid disappointments by measuring your child ahead of time and know which rides they will be able to go on before you line up for them.