Planning a trip to Disneyland with a little one? Here are some friendly tips to ensure your day is as enjoyable as possible, or at least that you make it out in one piece.
- Purchase Tickets Online: Avoid the hassle of waiting in yet another line by buying your tickets online and printing them at home. After enduring a 20-minute wait to park, a 15-minute tram ride, and another 20 minutes behind someone buying annual passes for the entire family, standing in line is the last thing you want to do—especially with a toddler!
- Indulge in Treats Early: As soon as you step through the gates, treat yourself and your little one to an ice cream cone or a cupcake. After two hours of waiting, this sugary delight will help you forget your doubts about bringing your kid to the “Happiest Place on Earth” for at least a few minutes.
- Expect Some Distractions: You may find yourself surrounded by a loud group of revelers, which can be quite frustrating. It’s almost karmic payback for all those times you may have been the noisy ones. If you can’t beat them, join them! Consider sneaking in your own flask since I’ve never figured out if Disneyland actually serves alcohol.
- Avoid LA Traffic: Driving through Los Angeles is rarely a good idea, so consider staying at a nearby budget hotel or asking a relative if you can crash at their place. You might even leave one of your other kids with them to make your experience a bit more relaxing.
- Pack Distractions: Bring along a bag of toys and books to keep your toddler entertained while you wait in long lines. Just remember, you need something to occupy yourself too, so don’t hand over your phone just yet.
- Watch Your Hunger: Don’t let yourself get “hangry” and settle for subpar chicken nuggets and soggy fries just because they’re nearby. Live on popcorn, churros, and cotton candy instead. Trust me, the overpriced frozen food options are not worth it.
- Sugar for the Win: If your toddler starts acting cranky around nap time, consider giving her a little more sugar, just like those moms on reality shows. It might just perk her up (temporarily)!
- Carousel Alternatives: If your child keeps asking to go on the carousel, switch things up by taking her on the teacups instead. That way, she might be too dizzy to keep asking!
- Seek Air Conditioning: If the weather is unseasonably warm, find refuge in “It’s a Small World.” It’s air-conditioned and lasts a good while, giving you a break from the heat.
- Find Comfort in Shared Struggles: If you start feeling overwhelmed during your visit, look around and notice that many other parents are sporting the same look of frustration. You’re not alone! Try not to gloat too much when you see another child throwing a tantrum while yours is calm; your time will come!
For more parenting tips and insights, check out this post on home insemination kits, which you can find at this link. If you’re looking for quality information on artificial insemination, visit Make a Mom. For an excellent resource on infertility statistics, take a look at the CDC.
Summary
Taking a toddler to Disneyland can be a daunting experience, but with careful planning and a few strategic indulgences, you can make the day enjoyable for both you and your little one. Remember to keep distractions handy, stay fueled with snacks, and don’t hesitate to take a break when needed!