Keeping Your Little One Safe at Disney World

Taking a family trip to Walt Disney World can be a dream come true for the whole family.  We love thinking about all the magical experiences everyone will have together while visiting.  From seeing the castle for the first time to waving to Mickey Mouse, magical moments are what we dream about prior heading down.   Toddlers can enjoy so much while in Walt Disney World (see blog here).   Something we don’t think about though is how to make sure our little ones are safe while we are visiting.  Disney World is an extremely safe place and has amazing procedures in place to keep everyone safe, but there are some tips to make sure you stay safe in Walt Disney World.

 

Names Matter

This might sound silly, but make sure you little one knows your actual name.  Although it is fine for them to call you momma, nana or whatever nickname they have for you and family members, it is super important that they are able to communicate family names to other adults.  Practice going over not only their name but also the names of those traveling with you.  This will help cast members immensely if you were to get separated.

ID Tags

Another option if your little ones struggle with communicating important information or if you are worried they will panic and not be able to communicate, think about how you can get this information on your little ones’ body.  Some families look at tattoos that have important information such as cell phone numbers and names.  Another option would be ID tags that you can make at places like Walmart with important information.  These can be worn or even attached to a shoe if they don’t like wearing necklaces or bracelets.  This is a great option for those that are super young.  Stickers could also be used to place on the inside of clothing, but you would want to make sure that they can withstand the elements just as heat and rain.  

Set a Meeting Spot

For kids that are a little older and more aware of their surroundings, consider discussing a meeting place inside the different parks.  This works the best for those that might be more familiar with the parks than a first time trip, but it is good to find a location where everyone can meet up.  Pick a place that won’t be super busy instead of choosing the castle or Spaceship Earth.  By picking a place to meet up, this can help not only with little ones that get separated but also those big kids/adults that might split from the group to do their own thing.  Don’t rely on cell phones but be proactive and discuss this prior to starting the day.

 

Take Pictures

No one wants to think about their little one getting separated from them in the parks, but it happens daily at Walt Disney World.  Something that can help cast members help you is if you have a picture of your little one from the day.  Consider taking a picture before heading out of your hotel room this way you have one that shows what they are wearing that day.  In the panic of the moment, you might not be able to communicate what they are wearing so this can help you.

Who Are Cast Members

Another key item to go over with little ones before heading to the parks is who are cast members.  Make sure they know if they need something or can’t find you, they should look for an adult that has the cast member name tag.  Telling them to head to a store or to a dining location can also help them ensure they can find a cast member nearby.   You can show them pictures of cast members online and then once you arrive at a park, take a moment to discuss this as well.  

Nighttime Plan

If you are planning on watching a nighttime show, make sure you have a plan as it will be super crowded, super dark, and somewhat overwhelming for everyone.  Consider bringing some glow bracelets/necklaces so you can keep track of your little one.  If they struggle with noise, think about bringing noise canceling headphones as well so they don’t panic during the show.  Having little ones in the stroller after the show is probably the smartest way to ensure everyone sticks together in the crowd.  Also, this is where having a meet up plan is important for everyone as well.  Make sure everyone knows who is incharge of the kids so there isn’t any confusion and mistakes.  

 

No one wants to think about our little ones getting lost or separated in Walt Disney World, but it does have each and every day.  Disney has an extremely well organized system to help children find their lost parents (this is how they frame it to help kids feel less scared), but if you can take these tips you can help set yourself and your little ones up for safety once you are in Walt Disney World.  We want to make sure everyone has a magical trip and we hope knowing these tips will help you do just that!  Do you have any other tips to share?  If you are looking for ideas for your toddler, check out our blog here.