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An age-by-age guide to Disney World activities

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Things To Know Before You Go...

Be prepared. Study the guidebooks (and don't leave home without one). Be aware that park hours may have been reduced substantially due to the economic downturn and recent world events. Some attractions run on limited schedules. Use the age-by-age articles that follow to help you plan your itinerary, but also get a park map at your hotel so you can review the schedule beforehand.

Go during the school year, if possible. Crowds are thinnest in January, October, early November and December (before Christmas week).

Be realistic. The younger your child, the less ground you can expect to cover. During the high season (Easter, summer months, Thanksgiving, and Christmas break), you may conquer only a few attractions per day.

If you're a single parent, consider travelling with another adult who has kids of similar age to yours. Your kids will be happier, and you'll have adult companionship as well as an extra pair of helping hands.

Hit the parks early. Get there at least 45 minutes before official opening time. Bring snacks, and toys to amuse little ones, while waiting.

Use the 'Fast Pass', a system that's available for the most popular rides and attractions. When a certain ride has a long queue, the 'Fast Pass' allows you to return later at a specified time, when you'll get to ride without a lengthy wait. (But you can't get a second Fast Pass till the time frame on your first one has expired.).

Take a daily break. Having a nap or going back to the hotel for a midday swim can prevent meltdowns.

Eat in at breakfast. Bring along cereal or breakfast bars, plastic bowls, and utensils; then send a family member to the hotel food court for milk and fruit.

Save character breakfasts for departure day. Several of the Disney hotels and theme park restaurants have them, and it's a great way to celebrate before heading home.

Check the age-by-age guides for the lastest tips and hints to make the most of your next Disney vacation:

Babies and Toddlers (Ages Birth to 2 Years)

Preschoolers (Ages 3 to 6 Years)

School-age kids (Ages 7 to 10 Years)

Preteens and Teens (10 Years and over)

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