5 Essential Tips for Visiting Disneyland with Small Children: Insights from an SLP and Mom of Two
As a speech-language pathologist (SLP) and mom of two young children, I understand the unique challenges and joys that come with parenting and travelling with young kids. Recently, we embarked on a magical journey to Disneyland with our 4-year-old and (nearly) 2-year-old, and it was truly the time of our lives. I’ve compiled the top 5 tips I learned from our adventure to help you make the most of your Disneyland trip with small children.
1. Go Anytime: Embrace the Magic Early
Many parents believe they should wait until their children are older to visit Disneyland. However, I found that young children can fully experience and remember the magic of Disney. The joy and wonder in their eyes as they connect with the characters and environment are priceless. Don’t wait—create those magical moments now! Wondering about height restrictions for rides? Both of our girls could go on most rides with us. Height restrictions typically start at 40 inches, and then go up to 42 inches and 46 inches. Measure your kids before you leave so you know which rides they can enjoy!
2. Pre-Teach the Magic of Disneyland
Preparation is key, especially for young children. Start introducing the concept of Disneyland well in advance. Watch YouTube videos of Disneyland parades and Mickey’s Clubhouse to familiarize them with the characters and excitement. This repetition helps build their anticipation and understanding, making the actual visit even more thrilling.
SLP Tip: Use storytelling and visual aids to enhance their comprehension and excitement. Creating a simple storybook about your upcoming trip can be a fun, interactive way to prepare them.
3. Flexible Plans, Zero Expectations
Planning with small children requires flexibility. Have loose plans but keep your expectations low. This trip is for them, so let them guide the day. Offer options and talk about the day's activities to see what interests them. This approach helps avoid meltdowns and ensures everyone enjoys the experience.
SLP Tip: Use visual schedules and choice boards to help your children understand the day’s activities. This can reduce anxiety and give them a sense of control.
4. Avoid Long Lines
Long lines can be daunting with young children. Invest in the Genie pass or arrive early to beat the crowds. Take advantage of Toon Town, which is full of age-appropriate attractions and activities without the lengthy waits.
SLP Tip: Keep your children entertained while waiting by playing guessing and trivia games. For example, while in line for Dumbo, ask questions like, "What animal do you think Dumbo is? Do you think elephants can fly? How can Dumbo fly?" Additionally, bring small, portable cameras, toys, or books to keep them engaged.
5. Budget-Friendly Disney Experience
Disneyland can be expensive, but it doesn’t have to drain your savings. We managed a budget-friendly trip by spending just two days at Disneyland, skipping California Adventure, and using points for flights and hotels. Remember, children under 3 get free entry, and children under 2 fly for free, so plan your visit accordingly!
SLP Tip: Involve your children in the planning process by discussing which movies are featured at each park. This can help you plan which parks you'll visit, how many days at each and if you'll need a park-hopper pass. This can be a great opportunity to teach them about making choices and managing expectations
Final Thoughts
Our Disneyland adventure was filled with unforgettable moments and valuable lessons. By following these tips, you can create a magical, stress-free experience for your family. As an SLP and mom, I know the importance of preparation, flexibility, and making memories that will last a lifetime. Happy travels!
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