Making the most of Disney Parks with Tots

The one thing parents know for a fact is that kids are as unpredictable as the weather.  While the Disney Parks are designed for kids, there is so much stimulation, that even the most routine of kids can be thrown off.  Here are a few tips that have come in handy:

1: Do not overplan
I admittedly do not follow my own rule.  I want to see and do it all!  There are rides to ride and characters to meet, parades and fireworks to see.  The thing is, most of our kiddos, while they have abundant energy, can't keep up with it all.  Make sure you have realistic expectations and pace yourself.

2: Stick to the routine/nap times
Kids like routine.  So stick with it as much as possible.  If your little one eats lunch at 11:30 and naps at 12 than plan accordingly.  My little guys have a harder time sleeping on vacation (away from their own beds).  Realize that nap time may be a bit longer than usual. My husband and I (if we aren't sleeping as well) will trade off on pool time.  Moms, this hour or 2 by yourself is heavenly!

3. Bring plenty of snacks/water
It's hot in Florida more months than not.  Bring plenty of water/sippy cups with you.  And pack those snacks.  Over pack in fact.  They work up quite an appetite.

4. Take advantage of the playgrounds
You go all the way to Walt Disney World to...play on a playground?  Counterintuitive right?  Actually no.  It took me a few tries to understand just how important the playgrounds are.  It brings a sense of normalcy to little ones.

So where are these located?

• Magic Kingdom..under the railroad tracks/train station in Frontierland.
• Animal Kingdom...The Boneyard in Dinoland, USA
• Hollywood Studios...Honey I Shrunk the Kids, Streets of America

5. Sunscreen, hats and sunglasses
The Florida sun is hot and my fair skinned little guys burn easily.  Even in the off months, it's still probably more sun than your little ones are used to.

6. Baby Care Centers
There is one in every park.  They have changing tables, family bathrooms, a kitchen and even a room for nursing mothers.  You can also purchase supplies if you forget diapers or wipes.

Basically, approach Disney World from a slower perspective.  Get to the parks early for rope drop  (and before the mid-day crowds arrive), leave around lunch (the sun is at it's peak anyway) and nap, and go back late afternoon.

You will have a blast no matter the pace.