Disney World is a magical place filled with enchanting characters, thrilling rides, and immersive experiences. However, if you’re visiting with young children, you might be concerned that they won’t meet the height requirements for some attractions or might be too scared to ride. That’s where Disney’s Child Swap feature, also known as Rider Switch, comes to the rescue. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what Child Swap is, how it works, and some tips for using it effectively.
Child Swap, also known as Rider Switch, at Disney World is a service that allows adults with children who can’t or don’t want to ride an attraction to take turns without having to wait in line again. It’s a system designed to save time and ensure that no one in the party misses out on the fun. The service is available for families with young children who may not meet the height requirements for certain rides or for those who simply do not wish to ride a particular attraction.
What Is Child Swap?
Child Swap, or Rider Switch, is a system implemented by Disney World that allows adults with children who are unable to ride an attraction due to height restrictions or personal preference, to take turns riding the attraction without having to wait in line again. This service is beneficial for families with young children who may not meet the height requirements for certain rides or for those who simply do not wish to ride a particular attraction. It ensures that no one in the party misses out on the fun.
How Does Child Swap Work?
The Child Swap process is straightforward and user-friendly. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Your entire party, including the child who won’t be riding, approaches the entrance of the ride and informs the cast member that they want to use the Rider Switch service.
- The cast member will then issue a Rider Switch pass and scan the Magic Bands or park tickets of those not riding, as well as those who will be riding a second time.
- The first group (Group 1) goes on the ride while the second group (Group 2) waits with the child who isn’t riding.
- Once Group 1 finishes the ride, they swap places with Group 2. The members of Group 2 can then ride the attraction without having to wait in the regular line again.
- If the person in Group 2 waited alone with the child or non-riding guest, they are allowed to bring up to two people with them while using the Disney rider switch. This means some members of the party can ride the same attraction twice.
Age and Height Restrictions
There is no age limit for guests who use the swap. However, Disney has a policy that guests under age 14 must be accompanied by a guest age 14 or older to enter a theme park or water park. To board an attraction, children under age 7 must be accompanied by a person age 14 years or older.
As for height restrictions, they vary depending on the specific ride or attraction. Disney is very strict on height requirements for safety reasons.
Benefits of Using Child Swap
The benefits of using Child Swap at Disney World are numerous. The most obvious is that it saves time. Instead of waiting in line twice, the adult who is waiting with the non-riding child can simply swap places with the other adult after they have ridden the attraction. This means more time to enjoy other attractions and less time spent in queues.
Another benefit is that it allows everyone in the family to enjoy the attractions they want without leaving anyone behind. This service ensures a more enjoyable and memorable experience for all.
Tips for Using Child Swap
Here are some lesser-known tips and advice for families planning to use Child Swap:
- Inform the attendant at the ride’s entrance that you would like to use Child Swap before entering the queue. Each attraction handles Child Swap a little differently.
- Plan for waiting time. Keep in mind that it may take at least 45 minutes or more for both groups to ride when using Rider Switch.
- Check the policy. Policies can change, so it’s always a good idea to check the most recent policy before your visit.
In conclusion, Child Swap is a wonderful feature that Disney World offers to families with young children. It allows everyone in the family to have a great time and enjoy the attractions, without having to worry about long wait times or height restrictions. So on your next trip to Disney World, remember to take advantage of this fantastic service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Child Swap service cost extra?
No, Child Swap or Rider Switch is a free service provided by Disney World to enhance the experience of families visiting the park.
Can Child Swap be used on all rides at Disney World?
Child Swap is available on select rides and attractions that have a height requirement or may be too intense for younger guests. It’s best to check with a cast member at the ride entrance for availability.
How many times can we use the Rider Switch service on the same ride?
Generally, the Rider Switch pass is valid for one use only. However, you can request a new pass each time you wish to ride.
What happens if the second group has more than two people?
The person in the second group who waited with the non-riding child or guest is allowed to bring up to two people with them on the ride. If there are more than two, they would have to wait in the regular line.
What if the child decides they want to ride after all?
If the child decides they want to ride after all, and they meet the height and age requirements, they can join the second group to experience the ride.
