I want to start off by saying Disney was made for you. This place was made for everyone, regardless of age, to be able to enjoy the magic together.
I want to discuss with you, however, a growing epidemic that is a hot topic on message boards, blogs, and conversation: the etiquette (or lack thereof) of SOME parents (read: not ALL) when it comes to Disney vacations.
Now, you may think this is just coming from a childless, non-breeder. While technically, you're correct, understand that I've been working with children in one capacity or another since high school. It's true I'm not a parent, but it doesn't take a parent to go over the following:
1. It's almost funny how quickly parents pick up on the fact that people in the wheelchair lines on the buses get to go through first. It's also shameless to see how many parents use the wheelchair lane with their insanely over-sized strollers, so that they can get on the bus before the other guests who've been waiting patiently. Even worse is when I saw a family refuse to fold down their stroller and hook it up where the wheelchair should've gone on the bus, thereby eliminating another 6 seats other guests could've used. Be a good sport. Fold your strollers down as instructed and wait in the appropriate line. There's a reason everyone else is waiting where they are.
2. While on the subject of insanely over-sized strollers, PLEASE watch where you're going. Those are toes you're arbitrarily rolling over in your quest to get to Dumbo. Understand that if you cannot fit on the sidewalks of Main Street USA, you can use the main roadway (unless of course there is a trolly or performance taking place.) Just as you wouldn't want to be shoved or tripped by a non-stroller guest, it's important to keep your manners about you when an accident happens. A simple "Excuse me" or "I'm so sorry about that" can go a very long way.
3. DO NOT PUT YOUR CHILD ON YOUR SHOULDERS. This may be one of my biggest pet peeves. Poor planning on your part should not be at the expense of the other guests who planned their location for the show/fireworks/performance. PLAN. If you'd like your son/daughter to be able to see all of the twinkling lights of the Main Street Electrical Parade, be sure to steak out a good spot with time to spare (and remember there are some excellent locations that no one ever seems to think about in Frontierland that are MUCH less crowded.) There are people who paid just as much as you did to see the parade who got there and waited so that they could get a good seat. Don't ruin it with a view of your child's rear end.
On a side note: To those who DON'T have kids, remember that the parades/fireworks/shows tend to hold the most magic for little ones. If you can still see, why not invite a little tike to sit/stand in front of you (under the parents' watchful eye, of course). You'll get a front row view of a little one experiencing the magic of Disney!
4. The middle of the walkway is NOT the place to stop and look at your map.
5. Meltdowns. Oh, meltdowns. Face it, it's going to happen. It's hot. It's a LOT of ground to cover, and sometimes it's plain scary for a little one to see life-sized versions of their favorite stuffed animal. I don't blame you for having a child who is throwing the world's wildest tantrum. There are times when I'M throwing a tantrum of my own. This is not the time though for screaming and shouting at your child. Remember, too much stimulation can be a real problem. When the inevitable happens, pull your child aside and discipline/listen and let them know that if the behavior continues, you'll go back to the hotel. If you're a Disney Resort guest staying on property, I strongly encourage you to go back to your hotel during the middle of the day for naps/food/the pool. This tends to be the busiest time of day. Not to mention the hottest. Sometimes a break can be a saving grace. But remember, screaming parents are worse than screaming children.6. Don't force your children. I know you've been dreaming of that special picture of your son with Mickey or your little princess with Cinderella. When the time comes to actually take the photo, understand that your child may be really intimidated. If they start to freak, kindly excuse yourself. There will be plenty of other opportunities to catch that photo and you could really scar your child from wanting to ever do that again.
Disney is an amazing place. I love watching families as they experience it all together. It's exactly what Walt wanted. By considering others while you do this though, you help to carry the magic to others.
Your Friend,
The Disney Hippy
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