As a parent, planning a trip to Disney World with a 1-year-old can be a daunting task. You may be wondering what attractions and rides your little one can enjoy safely and comfortably. Luckily, Disney World offers a variety of rides and experiences suitable for toddlers, ensuring that your family trip is magical and unforgettable. This guide will provide an in-depth look at what a 1-year-old can ride at Disney World, including safety considerations, accommodations, and tips for ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Yes, a 1-year-old can ride several attractions at Disney World. These include toddler-friendly rides such as “it’s a small world”, Peter Pan’s Flight, and Dumbo the Flying Elephant at Magic Kingdom, Frozen Ever After at Epcot, Toy Story Mania at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Always remember to check the safety requirements and ensure your child’s comfort during the ride.
Rides Suitable for a 1-Year-Old at Disney World
Disney World has several rides and attractions that are suitable for 1-year-olds. These attractions have no height restrictions, allowing toddlers to enjoy them with their parents.
Magic Kingdom
- “it’s a small world”
- Peter Pan’s Flight
- Dumbo the Flying Elephant
- The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
- Jungle Cruise
- The Magic Carpets of Aladdin
Epcot
- Frozen Ever After
- Gran Fiesta Tour Starring The Three Caballeros
- Journey Into Imagination With Figment
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Toy Story Mania
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
- Kilimanjaro Safaris
Safety Considerations
While many rides at Disney World are designed for toddlers, some older rides may not be as safe due to outdated safety features or open-sided cars with only lap belts. Here are some safety tips for parents with 1-year-olds at Disney World:
- Check height requirements: Ensure that your child meets the height requirements for each ride.
- Use Baby Care Centers: Disney World offers Baby Care Centers in each of the four main parks, providing a comfortable and clean space for parents to take care of their babies’ needs.
- Use Rider Switch: For rides with height requirements, parents can use the Rider Switch service, allowing one parent to ride while the other waits with the baby, and then switch places.
- Be cautious with older rides: Some older rides at Magic Kingdom may not be safe for babies due to outdated safety features or open-sided cars with only lap belts.
- Babywearing: You can only babywear on rides without a height requirement, as babies (up to 32 inches) can only go on those rides.
- Be prepared for your child’s reactions: Some children may be fascinated by characters, while others may be terrified. Be prepared to adjust your plans based on your child’s reactions.
- Use sanitizing wipes: Bring hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes to clean lap bars and surfaces where your baby may touch.
Accommodations for Families with 1-Year-Olds
Disney World offers various accommodations suitable for families with 1-year-olds. All Disney World hotels are equipped for a child-friendly stay, with amenities like pools, playgrounds, arcades, and stores to keep children engaged. Additionally, Disney World offers free transportation options like buses, monorails, and the Skyliner to help families with toddlers navigate the parks more easily.
Tips for an Enjoyable Experience
- Choose age-appropriate rides: Opt for rides with no height requirements, which are suitable for toddlers and babies.
- Use the Baby Care Centers: These centers provide a comfortable space for changing, nursing, or feeding your little one.
- Familiarize your child with Disney characters: Before your visit, show your child pictures and videos of Disney characters to help them feel more comfortable when meeting them in person.
- Stick to your routine: Try to maintain your child’s regular schedule for naps, meals, and bedtime as much as possible.
- Use the Rider Switch service: This allows one adult to wait with the child while the other rides, and then switch without having to wait in line again.
- Bring or rent a stroller: A stroller can help your child rest and make it easier for you to navigate the parks.
- Plan for breaks: Schedule downtime for your child to rest and recharge, either in the Baby Care Centers or at your hotel.
- Stay at a Disney hotel: Staying on-site can make it easier to take breaks and return to the parks later in the day.
- Utilize Disney transportation: Disney World offers various transportation options, such as the monorail, Disney Skyliner, buses, or boats, which can be entertaining for toddlers.
- Be flexible: Be prepared to adjust your plans based on your child’s needs and moods.
Non-Ride Activities for 1-Year-Olds at Disney World
Disney World offers various non-ride activities for 1-year-olds, which include character meet and greets, playgrounds, and Baby Care Centers. There are also numerous shows and entertainment options that are suitable for toddlers, such as the Disney Junior Dance Party at Hollywood Studios, the Disney & Pixar Short Film Festival and Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along at EPCOT, and the Country Bear Jamboree at Magic Kingdom.
Conclusion
Planning a trip to Disney World with a 1-year-old requires careful consideration and planning. But with the right information and preparation, your family can have a magical and memorable experience. Remember that each child is different, and it’s essential to consider your child’s comfort and safety when choosing rides and attractions at Disney World.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rider Switch service and how does it work at Disney World?
Rider Switch is a service offered by Disney World that allows one parent to ride while the other waits with the baby, and then switch places without waiting in line again. If a ride has a height requirement that the baby doesn’t meet, one adult can wait in a designated area with the baby while the other rides. Once the ride is over, they switch places, and the second adult can ride without having to wait in line again.
Can I bring my own stroller to Disney World, or do I have to rent one?
Yes, you can bring your own stroller to Disney World. However, it must meet certain size requirements set by Disney. The stroller should be no larger than 31″ (79 cm) wide and 52″ (132 cm) long. If you prefer, you can also rent strollers from Disney World.
Are there restaurants at Disney World that cater to toddlers and babies?
Yes, many restaurants at Disney World offer children’s menus and high chairs. You can also bring your own baby food and snacks. Additionally, each park has a Baby Care Center, which provides a comfortable and clean space for feeding your baby.
Are there baby changing facilities at Disney World?
Yes, each of the four main parks at Disney World has a Baby Care Center equipped with changing tables, feeding areas, and even a shop to buy baby essentials like diapers, wipes, and formula. There are also changing facilities in most restrooms throughout the parks.
Can I bring snacks and drinks for my baby into the parks?
Yes, you are allowed to bring food and drinks into the parks. However, glass containers are not allowed, except for baby food jars. It’s a good idea to bring snacks and drinks for your baby to ensure they have something they like to eat and drink throughout the day.
