Mommy: / Minnie is my Homegirl tee c/o Sweetees / jeans / sneakers /

Lydia: / Minnie is my Homegirl tee c/o Sweetees / leggings / shoes c/o Robeez /

Photos by Playful Soul Photography 

I know.  The cuteness right?  If you don’t follow me on Instagram…..then you missed our big Disneyland trip.  We live about 45 minutes away from Disneyland, and this year Lydia and I are annual passholders.  I figured we needed to take advantage while she was still free (FYI kids under 3 don’t need tickets for Disneyland).  So, after a couple trips…..we are slowly getting our agenda down.  

I wanted to share a few simple tips for going to Disneyland with a Toddler.
Disneyland with a Toddler:

1) Plan your trip.  This was my biggest mistake…..we just sort of walked in.  I had NO plan.  No map.  Disneyland can be overwhelming.  Even more so with a toddler.  A few of Lydia’s favorite parts of the park: Toontown, the Dumbo ride, Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, the Teacups, listening to the piano player on main street at the candy shop, Goofy’s playground, the Parades

2) Bring snacks and water, and anticipate meals: It’s really easy to lose track of time once you’re inside the park.  Seriously, set an alarm on your phone for snacks and meals.  Otherwise, a meltdown will happen.  We love Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante in Frontierland, it’s inexpensive and has toddler meals.  

3) Quiet Time: Disneyland can be VERY stimulating.  If it’s a lot to take in as an adult, imagine what it feels like to a toddler.  Our favorite spot in the park to relax? Snow White’s Grotto.  Located to the side of the Castle, this shady area tends to be quiet and peaceful.  It’s the perfect spot for a snack and a stroller nap.

4) Bring a GOOD stroller: We brought our Ergo, and were SO glad we did.  After parking, you’ll have the choice of folding up your stroller and taking the tram to the park or walking a very short distance with it. We walked….I figured…..then I could eat more Disney treats, right? 

5) Bring Sunscreen: Yes, even in the winter. I’m not going to lie, I forgot ours.  Of course, after a couple hours in direct sun….our little one started to look slightly pink.  They do sell sunscreen in the park, but it’s not everywhere and it’s pricey.

6) Character Meet and Greets: Don’t be surprised if your toddler is afraid of the characters.  Lydia went back and forth between loving them and having little interest.  We met Mickey and Goofy, and waved at Cinderella.  That was enough for us!

7) Hit the most popular areas EARLY: If you can, get to the park before it opens.  Parents of older kids? They sleep in now.  Toddler moms? I mean, you’re up already!  Take advantage.  The Dumbo ride has little to no wait at 8 am! But at noon? We waited an hour. (Which reminds me, bring activities for waiting in line!)

8) Go with the Flow: This is supposed to be FUN, remember? You may not get to everything…..but that’s ok.  The point is for this to be a magical family experience!

Prize: $500 Disney Gift Card (can be used at any Disney park or store)

Co-hosts: Coupons and Freebies Mom // Sunny Sweet Days // Lipgloss & Crayons //  Jenns Blah Blah Blog // Yes We Disney // Style On The Side // Peyton’s Momma // The Bewitchin’ Kitchen // Juggling Act Mama // Casey At // Peanut Butter and Whine // City Of Creative Dreams

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disneyland tips