First time with a kid- Tips appreciated! :)

[KappleB2]

Hello! This summer I get to take my 9 year old nephew for his first trip! I have been going solo or with other adults for a long time and I feel very confident to tell other adults about what to do but am feeling a sudden panic about taking him! I just want him to have the best first experience. So... I am looking for any tips you have about taking kids!

Going in July (thanks Disney + discount!) and have 2 park days. I'm thinking Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios? Maybe Epcot? I don't currently have hoppers but would consider.

 

[Smiley/OCD]

I think you have the correct 2 parks to visit…if I were to add a third with the park hopper, I would add AK…my only advice would be to follow HIS lead, do as much as he feels comfortable with and add (or subtract) as needed. Enjoy them, enjoy your trip and take lots of pictures!!

 

[FiestaFunKid]

I'd probably pick those parks, MK for sure - unless he dislikes Star Wars or Toy Story for some reason, then maybe Epcot gets the nod.

9 yo is a good age for a character meal (breakfast perhaps which is slightly cheaper, or even an in park lunch to break up that july heat). They may not be worth the price - but if you are using it to replace in park character meet and greets, it can save you time and boring lines over those two packed days.

 

[Tiki Traveler]

Hi! This is the practical mom side of me. Do you have anything setup if you get separated? Does he know your cell phone#? You may want to put a piece of paper in his pocket w/your information or I’ve heard of writing it on a piece of masking/duct tape and sticking it inside his shirt. You may also want to point out that all CMs have name tags so he would know who to go to. I would think they could track you through his magic band if he’s wearing one but having your information gives him some control.

It will be hot so make sure he’s wearing cooler/lighter clothes and drinks plenty of cold water. A few icy treats wouldn’t hurt either. He may want more pool time than you expected.

Is he a Star Wars fan? HS for sure! Any Disney movies he’s loves? Try to find those rides/attractions that have those characters. I think a character meal is a great idea.

My grandparents took me my first time and as you can tell it still resonates w/me! Have a great time! We’d love to hear about it in trip reports!

 

[Eric Graham]

Hello! This summer I get to take my 9 year old nephew for his first trip! I have been going solo or with other adults for a long time and I feel very confident to tell other adults about what to do but am feeling a sudden panic about taking him! I just want him to have the best first experience. So... I am looking for any tips you have about taking kids!

Going in July (thanks Disney + discount!) and have 2 park days. I'm thinking Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios? Maybe Epcot? I don't currently have hoppers but would consider.

If your nephew enjoys Winnie the Pooh, and who doesn't enjoy all of the characters of the 100 Acre Wood then the Crystal Palace may be a very fun lunch/dinner character meal for y'all. You get to interact with all of the characters and even Piglet and Roo. My favorites have always been Winnie the Pooh and Tigger of course! Great photo opp for you and your family, and it can be really fun for all of y'all to dance dance with all of them also. It's very nice because they spend some wonderful quality time with each and every table. I've taken my nephew and niece there when they were a lot younger and they had a fabulous time! Happy Disneying!

 

[jaklgreen]

9 year old kids are easy. Old enough to have some staying power but not old enough for the teen attitude. LOL I would just focus on keeping things light and fun. It doesn't always have to be about getting on the most rides. Just don't forget to stop and take a few minutes to just sit and relax. WDW is a very overstimulating place. And don't forget to have him drink plenty of water.

 

[Ghostdog]

Factor in pool time everyday, it’s a must during the HOT summer months.

Since Disney isn’t new to you why not let the 9 yr old drive the trip from the park, rides and where to eat. Our kids have fond memories of being in charge of the day and quite frankly it was always fun for us too.