Disney Vacation Planning With Kids

No matter how excited you may be to take that trip to Disney, if you travel with children, keep this in mind: It IS all about them
There are so many things to see and do in WDW as an adult but if you are going with kids remember to plan your trip around them. This means you may not get to see and do everything that you hope to but believe me, that is much better to deal with than unhappy children!

On my family's last trip, we didn't keep the kids in mind as well as we should have. Basically, I did all the planning and I was trying to find things that would keep everyone happy. From my 85 year old grandma, to my mom and MIL, to CJ and then the kids. I wanted everyone to see and do the stuff they wanted - I wanted us all to have a great time! It didn't work out so great.

Here are a few tips, that may seem like common sense but it's surprising how many people don't think of them!

• Schedule down time - yes, PLAN for it. Don't run yourself and the kids all over the place from dusk 'til dawn. If part of your rest time includes relaxing by a resort pool, be prepared to have nap time after that! Kids become very tired swimming even for only an hour.

• Plan meals EARLY! - So many people say breakfasts are a waste - especially if you have the meal plan. 'Get the most for your money, have dinners planned at expensive places.' That's great if you don't have kids! Breakfasts are excellent meals to schedule if you have children. The kids are usually in good spirits because it's the beginning of the day. If you do want to have a dinner - make reservations early! Between 4-5:30 is a good time. Any later than that and kids may be over tired and overstimulated from the day's events.

• Decide which rides and attractions you want to see BEFORE you go - This is another obvious one but so many people, including us on our last last trip, get to a park and then stand there looking at the park map, trying to decide where to go first. This wastes time (DUH) and the kids may be overly anxious to go and see/do things! Don't make them wait any longer than they may have to.

• Many resorts have special kid events planned. Epcot has KIDCOT - These Fun Stops are "Kid Stations" located in several Future World pavilions and in all of the World Showcase countries. These areas, staffed by Cast Members, feature an activity and/or craft table especially for children.

• For more tips and information, visit Planning Disney With Kids

This time, we already have it set in our minds, this trip is all about the kids. Not to say we won't get to see and do things we as adults will love, but we will definitely have things planned out much better!