As parents, we all envision an ideal theme park experience with our children. The vision is so exciting in our minds - laughing on rides, eating delicious food, and sharing memories at the end of the day.
The reality is that while we have fun, vacations with children (especially young children) can be filled with more stress and unexpected curveballs thrown our way than we might anticipate. Meltdowns can occur at any moment, but we are here to help with a few tried and true tips to help your kids (and you) avoid a theme park meltdown.
SELECT THE BEST PARK FOR YOUR FAMILY
When planning your vacation, it is essential to select the best theme park for your entire family, especially if you have younger children in attendance. Researching rides, amenities, and location will help you in more ways than one. Many parks cater to younger age groups and might be a better option to keep your kids engaged and far from a meltdown.
STAY HYDRATED
If you are battling hot summer temps or even traveling to theme parks during colder months, staying hydrated is a must. If your kids are not getting enough fluids throughout the day, it can be an immediate trigger for a potential meltdown. Pack a refillable water bottle or stop between rides and attractions, as cups of water are typically free at theme parks.
SAVE TIME WHEN YOU CAN
Take advantage of an opportunity to save time when it comes to theme park entry and ride lines. Stay on-property and wake up early to make sure you can arrive at the park right when it opens, as crowds are much smaller. Many on-site resorts offer early hours or extra time at the park, and you should always take advantage of those extra perks. Also, if theme parks offer a fast pass ride option, you might want to consider it to decrease wait time on potentially long lines.
DON’T SKIMP ON REST
There is so much to see and do at every theme park in the country, but rest is vital. Scheduling times for naps and rest periods is essential to sustain energy during your vacation. If you are taking a long trip to a theme park and time allows, you might want to consider scheduling an “off day” in the middle of your travels dedicated to extra sleep and rest activities to recharge the entire family.
GET YOUR KIDS INVOLVED IN THE PLANNING
One of the best ways to keep your kids from having a meltdown is to get them involved in the planning. When you arrive, designate them the leaders for the day and provide a map of the park! Have your children assist in selecting rides and navigating the park. This is also helpful if you are waiting in a long line or need a quick distraction - always pull out the map and have them give their feedback to lead the way!
WHAT YOU WEAR MATTERS
Packing for your trip is one of the most important items on any to-do list, especially when it comes to what your kids will wear each day at a theme park. Comfortable clothes that can quick-dry are your best option. Also, comfortable shoes (never brand new) and hats are vital, especially for hot weather times. Always put your kids in what you feel will be the most comfortable outfit from head to toe.
PACK A THEME PARK MELTDOWN PREVENTION BAG
Having a small, manageable kid-friendly bag may be your best go-to option to prevent potential meltdowns. You can pack small snacks and drinks (if allowed by parks), small games, stickers, booklets for drawing, and any other small distractions that might come in handy for periods of waiting. If you think you might need something for your kids, don’t hesitate to pack it. Better to be prepared!
PULL OUT THE GAMES
Waiting in line is an expectation of any theme park you visit. So, how can you make that time more enjoyable? Plan for it and come up with some quick games you can use while you wait in line. I Spy, the Alphabet Game, and Charades are tried and true options. Don’t be afraid to get creative! You can even go digital and have some fun, family games ready on your phone like Heads Up!
EAT WHILE YOU ARE IN LINE
If your kids are getting hungry (aren’t they always) and you have a long wait ahead of you for an attraction, get your snacks and take them with you in line. Not only will it help your children pass the time of waiting, but it will also give them an energy boost/distraction to continue the family fun. This is especially good for hot days - why not have an ice cream while waiting in a never-ending line?
LEARN WHAT YOUR PARK OFFERS
It is good to become familiar with what your park offers before you enter. Perhaps they have designated play spots for young children, cooling spots, or even unique dining options with characters to save time waiting in line. Some parks have also created calming areas as a break from sensory stimulation, if that is of concern for your children. Each park offers unique amenities that not only cater to children, but will help plan the best routes and attractions for the day.
MAKE THE DAY A GAME WITH A PRIZE AT THE END
Reward good behavior. Set expectations at the beginning of the day and give your child a score as you go. Perhaps you can pack some prizes or souvenirs either with you or some that you can keep at your hotel to give to your child for a job well done. For young children, it is hard to keep up with the exhaustion that is inevitable at a theme park. Show them that if they can have the right attitude, there is a reward.
FOLLOW ABC’s – ALWAYS HAVE A BACKUP JUST IN CASE
With kids, it is always essential to have a plan in case a meltdown does occur. A little planning goes a long way so you can feel less stressed out during your vacation. For example, have an action plan in case your kids get too hot or even need a nap. Try to plan and have options for anything that might potentially happen. Perhaps it is returning to your hotel for a few hours or sneaking into an air-conditioned area to rest. Know what works best to help your kids and make accommodations accordingly.
BE FLEXIBLE
Even with the best planning in the world, kids and situations are unpredictable. Go into your theme park experience with an open mind and realize that things will happen that are entirely out of your control. The most important thing you can do is keep a positive attitude and make memories. You might not be able to see everything or ride every ride, but that is ok. Sometimes the unexpected can result in the best memories possible!
What are some of your tried and true ways to avoid theme park meltdowns? Share them with us on Facebook or Twitter.
