It’s no secret, I LOVE Disney World! We have done Disney with babies, toddlers, littles, teenagers and even adults only trips with no kids but this post is for the people taking little kids! Taking your littles to Walt Disney World is one of those memory-making, heart-bursting, once-in-a-lifetime kinds of trips, but let’s be honest, there’s a fine line between magical and meltdown. After helping dozens of families plan their Disney vacations (and going through it myself), I’ve pulled together the 10 most essential tips for visiting the parks with little ones!
1. Start Early (But Don’t Be Afraid to Leave Early Too)
Rope drop is your best friend when you’ve got young kids. The morning hours offer the shortest lines, cooler temps, and the happiest moods. But once you hit lunchtime and the crowds swell, it’s okay to head back to the hotel. Swim, nap, regroup
2. Don’t Try to Do It All
This one is tough, I know. But Disney World is massive and with four theme parks, you’re never going to see it all in one trip. Pick your top priorities for each day—maybe 3 rides or experiences that matter most—and consider everything else a bonus. Less rushing = more smiling.
3. Use Rider Switch + Lightning Lane Wisely
If you have a baby or toddler who can’t go on certain rides, Rider Switch is a game-changer. One adult waits with the non-rider while the other rides, then you switch without waiting again. And for popular attractions, Lightning Lane access (via Genie+) can be worth every penny—especially when it means skipping a 90-minute wait for Peter Pan’s Flight or Slinky Dog Dash.
4. Know Where the Baby Care Centers Are
Each park has a Baby Care Center with private nursing rooms, changing tables, microwaves, toddler-sized toilets, and more. It’s quiet, air-conditioned, and stocked with essentials like diapers, wipes, and sunscreen for purchase. These are a hidden gem for any parent traveling with little ones.
5. Include These Must-Haves in Your Park Bag
Here’s what I recommend packing in your park bag for kids under 10:
- Refillable water bottles (you can get free ice water at any quick-service restaurant)
- Cooling towels or portable fans
- Snacks (familiar favorites can be a lifesaver in long lines)
- Change of clothes for accidents, spills, or splash zones
- Ziploc bags for wet items or leftover snacks
- Battery pack/phone charger
- Autograph book and Sharpie
- Ponchos (Pro tip- you can get them at the Walmart camping section for $1 !)
- Sunscreen and chapstick
- Bandaids
6. Mobile Order Your Meals Early
The My Disney Experience app lets you order food ahead at most quick-service spots. This is HUGE when your kids are hangry and you want to avoid standing in long lines. Place your lunch order mid-morning, choose your pickup time, and thank yourself later.
7. Character Dining = Food + Magic Without the Waits
Meeting characters in the parks can take hours, especially if you’re not using Genie+. But character meals give you quality time with Mickey or the princesses while you eat! Reservations go fast so we need to book you 60 days out from your check in day at 5:00am ct. Don’t want to do it, let me! As your vacation advisor, I’m happy to do it! If your kids absolutely love a certain character, let me know so I can help you ensure that you get a personal meet and greet! Peep Kenzie with her PLUTO …. she just had to meet him!
8. Make Use of the Disney Transportation System
Don’t underestimate the novelty—and convenience—of Disney’s transportation. The monorail, Skyliner, and boats aren’t just a way to get from one place to another—they’re a whole experience for kids. Build in time for a loop around the monorail or a scenic Skyliner ride to a nearby resort for a snack break. It can double as downtime and keep the fun going between park visits.
9. Bring or Rent a Stroller—Even for Big Kids
A 6-year-old might not use a stroller at home, but they’ll want one by mile five in Magic Kingdom. If you don’t want to bring yours, Disney rents single and double strollers at each park entrance. Bonus: strollers are great for holding bags, snacks, and sleeping kids during fireworks.
10. Let Them Be Little
It’s easy to get caught up in schedules and checklists, but some of the most magical moments happen spontaneously. Let them splash in Casey Jr. Splash ’N’ Soak. Get the bubble wand. Sit on the curb with a Mickey bar and wave at the cavalcade. The magic isn’t always in the headline attractions—it’s in the little things that make them light up.
Disney World with kids under 10 is equal parts magic and motion. With the right expectations, a little planning, and a lot of snacks, it can be a truly unforgettable trip—for everyone. If you’re feeling overwhelmed planning it all, that’s where I come in. I’d love to help you map out a custom itinerary that’s tailored to your kids’ ages, interests, and energy levels.
Ready to plan your family’s Disney adventure? Reach out for a free vacation quote! I’ll handle the details so you can focus on the magic. Request A Free Vacation Quote
