Tips for going with a lively toddler?

[Enchanted]

We tried every single kind of reins you can buy - from traditional to backpack type with his favourite characters on. DS (aged 18mths on first trip and turned 2 last month on his second trip) absolutely wouldn't tolerate them, he would just scream and chuck himself on the floor so don't rely on these unless you know he'll be happy wearing them.

We have an extremely lively (feral) little livewire who has zero patience and just wants to run around being wild and climbing. We used to put him on DHs shoulders in queues and 10min queue was our absolute limit at 18mths (he managed much longer last month). We used snacks, and just tried to play with him and point things out. We didn't use our phones/tech in queues but have no problems using it occasionally waiting for shows or meals. They're only little and watching a cartoon or playing a game is fine if it means he's not disturbing other people. We had a great game which he played on the plane all about colours and counting! Some tech is good 😊

[disneyfan87]

Originally Posted by princess allie

I really recommend using the reins, or a backpack with a parent handle. Means they can have a little freedom, but you won’t lose them. Will you be taking a pushchair too? Even with a lively toddler, they still need a little rest from time to time. Also it may be freezing or raining, so they can get in and keep warm or stay dry. Also great for storing snacks and drinks and purchases.

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Yes we will take reins and a pushchair definitely - thanks!

[disneyfan87]

Originally Posted by Enchanted

We tried every single kind of reins you can buy - from traditional to backpack type with his favourite characters on. DS (aged 18mths on first trip and turned 2 last month on his second trip) absolutely wouldn't tolerate them, he would just scream and chuck himself on the floor so don't rely on these unless you know he'll be happy wearing them.

We have an extremely lively (feral) little livewire who has zero patience and just wants to run around being wild and climbing. We used to put him on DHs shoulders in queues and 10min queue was our absolute limit at 18mths (he managed much longer last month). We used snacks, and just tried to play with him and point things out. We didn't use our phones/tech in queues but have no problems using it occasionally waiting for shows or meals. They're only little and watching a cartoon or playing a game is fine if it means he's not disturbing other people. We had a great game which he played on the plane all about colours and counting! Some tech is good 😊

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Thanks, we have a backpack bag with reins handle though we have only used it a couple of times so will get him more into the habit of it over the next couple of weeks!
Shoulder ride is a good tip for queues, thanks 👍🏻

[rcourt39]

Took eldest to Florida at 2.9=Feral hellbeast.
Took youngest to DLP last month at 2.3=Equally feral hellbeast!

We made the most of EMH, fastpass and there weren't any rides that we missed for him. We went back to parks in the evening and he would be soundo by 7.30pm so husband could take eldest on any rides he wanted whilst I sat with bubba.

I found DLP so much less stressful that WDW just because of the huge size difference. I felt much more relaxed and went with the kids pace.

Rachael