Saturday, September 18, 2010

Mom's Panel Question

I've decided to start answering current questions on the official Disney Mom's Panel as practice for when I win a spot! Power of positive thinking. Here is the question I picked today. Most days I'll just try to pick a new question, but today I just picked an open ended type question to start the brain thinking like a Disney Mom.

I want to make sure I pack all the right stuff for a 3 yr old and 10 yr old. What are some must haves (aside from the obvious)?"   Asked by Jama from WV on 9/8/2010

Jama you are right to start thinking beyond the basics. Having everything you need for your kids WDW trip will make for a lot less stress and less money spent on basics. Save your vacation money to spend on fun activities and souvenirs instead!

The following are a few things you just can't do without.
  • Sunscreen.  The Florida sun is very intense even on a winter day. Although Disney does a wonderful job of getting you out of the sun as quickly as possible on most rides, you will find that you are still out in the sun quite a bit. Getting everyone covered before you leave the hotel is easier than trying to achieve that in line at the parks. Take a handy sunscreen stick or travel size sunscreen with you for touch ups through out the day.
  • Jackets and Pants. If traveling to Florida in the summer you probably won't need to worry about being cold. However during the rest of the year, especially winter, you may find that Florida can actually get quite cool. My family has had to buy jackets and pants because we were ill prepared, it's Florida! You can usually count on rain at some point during your trip. Rain clears out the crowds, so take advantage, just be prepared with inexpensive ponchos from the dollar store. Make sure you have a back up set of shoes and socks, just in case they get wet.
  • Stroller. Your 3 year old may be a great walker, I know mine had given up her stroller at 3, but the distances at WDW will wear out the best little walkers. You may find that you don't use it at some parks, but at others it will help.
  • Fanny Packs. Waiting in lines, even a short 10 minute wait, can seem like forever to a child of any age. Even my teen-age kids are impatient! A fanny pack filled with small "treasures", gum and snacks can make the wait go by much quicker. Let the kids have their own fanny packs, it will save you having to get in to your bag all the time.  I look for small inexpensive treats all year and save them as surprises for the trip. Glow sticks/bracelets/necklaces from your dollar store are a fun treat for nighttime at the parks.
  • Identification. Be sure your kids have your cell phone number in their bag, just in case they should get separated from you. Cast Members are on the look out for lost little people at all times and are trained to assist. If they have your phone number they can contact you quickly.
  • Quarters and Pennies. Smashed pennies are a great souvenir. They are located all over WDW and are fun for kids to do. I collect new shiny pennies all year for our trip. Most machines cost  $.51, have change ready and it will save you having to ask a Cast Member for change. It is fun and quick.
Have a wonderful trip! The most important thing to take is your sense of adventure. WDW is a magical place with adventure around every turn!

No comments:

Post a Comment