Surviving Disneyland with a Toddler

Joy, elation, surprise and awestruck are the ways that most parents expect to feel when they take their 3 year old to Disneyland for the first time.  Instead, however, what they may find is exhaustion, temper tantrums and meltdowns!  Traveling anywhere with a toddler can be tough when normal schedules and routines are interrupted and naptimes can be non-existent.  If you play your cards right, though, you can plan a wonderful trip as long as you remember to keep their best interests at hand.  Be sure to always make it back to your hotel room during the day so they can nap and be refreshed for the remainder of the day.  Rent a stroller so their legs will not be tired walking the park all day and be sure to include their favorite blanket or animal to remind them of home.  Don’t waste too much time worrying about the details like getting the perfect shot with Mickey Mouse.  You may find that your toddler is terrified of the characters…don’t sweat it.  Let them out to run around or play in the pool, away from all of the stimulation of the park where they can let loose and be themselves.  Keep the well stocked with snacks to satisfy them during the day and make it an early evening back to your hotel room to prepare for a good nights sleep.