A trip to Disney can be the vacation of a lifetime but it can also turn into meltdown city. Kids get tired and fussy, adults then lose their patience, and then no one is having a good time. Meltdowns are common at Disney, and they don’t happen only to children. I have had a few too. Here are some suggestions on avoiding meltdowns before they happen, and tips on what to do when there is a meltdown. I have two young boys and unfortunately we experienced the meltdowns first hand.
Don’t Try to Do It All
Since a Disney vacation is expensive, you’re going to want to get the most for the money that you spend. One of the mistakes that people make is that they try to do too much. That leaves everyone in the family tired and stressed, which can lead to meltdowns. Try to make a plan on what rides/attractions are the most important to everyone in the family before you leave home. My husband normally drives me crazy with all his planning but it pays off for our Disney trips. The more FastPass+ you can schedule for those must-do-rides will help you save time and help eliminate frustration. “Let it Go” – you do not have to ride every ride. It is ok to skip a few rides and attractions; you will have more fun and be less stressed on the ones that you hit. When there’s less pressure on everyone, there’s less of a chance of a meltdown.
Bring Snacks
It never fails – 20 minutes into a 40 minute line, one of my kids is hungry. You and your kids are completely off your normal eating schedule, so you need to be prepared with some snacks in your backpack. The good new is Disney does allow you to bring outside snacks into the parks. Take advantage of this – it is a money saver and ensures that you have the type snacks your family likes. We take fruit snacks, pre-packed Rice Krispie treats and goldfish in a container so they do not get smashed. A quick snack can help avoid meltdowns, pass some the time in line and let you ride the ride before your lunch or dinner reservation. Which brings me to the next point; make as many lunch/dinner reservations before you leave. It will minimize standing in a long line for food when you are already hungry or worse finding that you cannot get into that character dining that your kids wanted.
Drink Plenty of Water
Everyone should stay hydrated because Florida’s heat and humidity can sneak up on you. Disney has plenty of water fountains at the parks, so you won’t have to go very far. One warning; in the hot months the water will not be cold coming out of the fountains. You can also ask for free cups of ice water at most quick service food options. You can take any empty water bottle and fill it up with plenty of ice so you can have it whenever you need.
Be Willing to Stray Off of Your Schedule
I know that I said to make a plan for your trip but be flexible enough for the little unknowns that will happen. Like you are on your way to ride Living with the Land but you end up standing in line for 45 minutes to see Tinker Bell because that is her only appearance of the day. Yes, boys like Tinker Bell too. FastPass+ allows you to plan out your day. You will have a one-hour window to use each pass. There are a few attractions that you won’t want to miss your FastPass+ for, but many attractions can be left for the standby line. Do not push your family past their limits or everyone will pay. It is your hard-earned vacation and you want to make sure that everyone enjoys it.
Take a Break
If you are staying on property, go back to the room for a quick nap, or swim in the pool. Meltdowns often happen from the heat and exhaustion. Also, if you are staying on property you can take advantage of Extra Magic Hours, so you are not missing out on park time. Taking a break during the heat of the day can help avoid meltdowns, make for a happy family and possible a smaller crowd at night. If you are not staying on property or heading back to your hotel is not possible, find a show to watch, go to a slow-moving ride or get some ice cream. The Tomorrowland Transit Authority in Magic Kingdom is always a favorite place for us to rest. There is normally no line; you sit in a slow-moving ride vehicle and it is in the shade.
Great advice!