Tips for Bringing Your Baby to Disney

Most people will think I'm crazy for having even considered taking a newborn to Disney World, but I just couldn't stay away!

Many people plan their big family vacations a year or more in advance and might not even be expecting a little one, but by the time their trip comes around, they might have an infant. Whether that's the case, or you just want to share the magic with your little one early, here are some tips to help make your trip go a little smoother.

Tip #1: Be Flexible

If this is your first trip to Disney, being flexible might not be very easy, but in the long run it will pay off. A Disney trip can be stressful for everyone, so be ready to change plans at the drop of a hat. Don't get me wrong, you can still plan out your day, but don't plan every minute. When you have an infant, just like a toddler, a meltdown can happen at any time. The more willing you are to leave a park or sit out a ride, the more enjoyable the trip. 

Tip #2: Use the Baby Care Centers

Disney provides a baby care center at every park for your family. USE IT! It is a dedicated building with the amenities every parent with a small child will find useful. There are private nursing rooms, a changing room with multiple changing tables, a kitchen and a room to feed your baby while keeping your other children entertained with a movie. They even sell common necessities you might have forgotten such as food, diapers and wipes. Even after you've taken care of business, they are a great place to relax and recharge without even leaving the park!

Tip #3: Ride Rides

Many moms think they have to sacrifice having fun so they can take care of the baby or other small children who can't ride the rides. Don't be a martyr! Disney doesn't always advertise this, but every cast member knows about it; it's called Rider Swap. Here's how it works: one adult waits with the small children while everyone else rides the ride. The person who was waiting then gets to bypass the regular and ride the ride with up to two other members from your party because who wants to ride a ride all alone? Now you have no excuse for not getting to ride the attractions!

Tip #4: Baby Transportation

Most likely, you will be bringing your own stroller to Disney especially if you have a baby who still is in a carrier. I suggest bringing a small stroller such as a snap-n-go. The simpler and more lightweight it is, the better. Remember, you will getting on and off buses and will want something that is easy to break down with little bulk. I also suggest you bring a baby wearing device such as a Moby wrap or Baby Bjorn. These are great when Disney forces you to leave your stroller outside but still want your little one to experience the attraction. In fact, the small attractions with slow moving rides will allow you to bring your baby. After all, you paid all this money to go, you might as well let your infant experience some of the fun with you!