going as a single parent for the fist time...

[disney9986]

I'm going to Walt Disney World POR for the first time as a single parent, I've been four times previous but not on my own. I'm taking my two daughters (which are teens) and I'm a little scared that being on my on and bringing two teens with me i wont be able to enjoy my holiday as much.
We are going October 29th of this year and would love to know of any tips or there is someone going themselves at this time and would like to meet up in on of the parks maybe?

 

[Nemo14]

I'm going to Walt Disney World POR for the first time as a single parent, I've been four times previous but not on my own. I'm taking my two daughters (which are teens) and I'm a little scared that being on my on and bringing two teens with me i wont be able to enjoy my holiday as much.
We are going October 29th of this year and would love to know of any tips or there is someone going themselves at this time and would like to meet up in on of the parks maybe?

I hope you enjoy your trip, but I'm not sure that announcing to perfect strangers where and when you will be there alone with 2 teenage daughters is a good idea.

 

[disney9986]

maybe not but it was a question worth asking as someone might be in the same position as me and able to give advise.

 

[The Mom]

maybe not but it was a question worth asking as someone might be in the same position as me and able to give advise.

I'm moving this to trip planning, where there are many posters who have been/are in a similar situation.

 

[JIMINYCR]

Give your teens some space. But set some ground rules for them to follow. When they are going off on their own, they have to check in by phone or meet at specific times and places along the day. Plan in some things you really have wanted to do but never did and do them when the teens are off on their own. A tour or spa day etc. Interact more with other guests and the CM's. Take paths youve never ventured on, explore things you never had the chance to on past trips. Going more on your own can really be fun and youll enjoy the freedom you have just doing things for yourself. Try to relax w/o the kids, it will take a while to enjoy doing Disney more on your own. When my DS got into his teens he did well with the Disney freedom but we made sure he knew that that freedom came with stipulations. Enjoy seeing Disney as a different person.

 

[LAKid53]

As another single mom, I understand your concerns. Agree with Jiminy's comments - give them space but let them know there are parameters and violations will have consequences. I would also see about attending Mickey's Halloween Party, if the length of your trip and budget would allow it. Your girls would have fun planning their costumes, the parade is awesome and who can turn down handfuls of free candy (their dentist wouldn't be happy, lol)?

 

[Courtney6682]

I've been to WDW twice as a single parent when my daughter was 11 in 2011 and then again when she was 13 in 2013. Both times were great and we had an amazing time. The only mistake I made when she was 11 is that I let her plan whatever we did...by then end of the trip she RAN ME RAGGED!!! Just remember that it is your vacation too! Good luck, I'm sure everything will be fine!