Keep those busy hands and brains entertained with these expert tips from a toddler parent.
Let’s be honest: No one enjoys waiting in long lines at Disney World. Long wait times can lead to boredom and restlessness for adults and kids alike – but for the littlest guests, waiting can be especially difficult. However, with a bit of creativity and preparation, you can become the master of keeping your toddler entertained, making the experience more enjoyable.
As a father of two and a Disney World expert, I’m sharing five non-screen tips I use to keep my toddlers engaged while waiting in line at Disney World.
1. Ignite Their Imaginations
One of the best ways to entertain a toddler is to engage their imagination with storytelling and interactive games. While you’re waiting in lines at Disney World theme parks, you can make up stories about the Disney characters you’re about to meet or the rides you’re waiting for. Talk about what the experience might be like, what your toddler is excited for – anything is game!
I also like to play simple games like “I Spy”,“Simon Says”, Red Light, Green Light” and “Follow The Leader,” all of which can be tailored to your toddler’s level (and are a fun way to pass the time.) Best of all, these work no matter what you’re waiting in line for or where you might be.
You can also encourage your child to come up with their own stories or games to keep them engaged and excited. Disney theme parks are full of details you can use to your advantage and incorporate into stories and games.
2. Bring Lots of Snacks
If you have a toddler, you know they’re grazers – so having a variety of snacks on hand can be a great distraction. Bring along a selection of their favorite snacks, preferably ones that are easy to eat and not too messy, and you can dole them out as needed.
I like to pack healthy options like fruit slices, cheese sticks, and crackers, all of which are parent-approved and can keep toddlers satisfied and busy.
Snacks can also be a handy incentive for good behavior while waiting in line. Or, turn snacks into a mini decision-making game and allow your toddler to pick out the snacks they’d like to eat.
3. Pack Small Toys and Activities
When I pack for Disney World, I try not to take too much (after all, a lightweight bag or diaper bag is key!) But, if your toddler likes to keep their hands busy, I recommend bringing along some small toys or activities that are lightweight and don’t have a lot of small parts.
Small dollar store finds like reusable sticker books, water drawing pencils, magnetic boards, and action figures are great items to entertain your toddlers and to keep their hands busy.
Just note: It’s best to rotate toys throughout the day to make sure your little ones don’t become bored and they maintain interest in the selection of toys you packed.
4. Try a Sing-Along
Music is a fantastic way to keep toddlers entertained and in good spirits. And what better place to singing their favorite Disney songs than while you’re waiting to meet a character or experience an attraction than Disney World?
Have a sing-along to your kid’s favorite Disney tunes or nursery rhymes, and it’ll make waiting in line both fun and distracting. As an added bonus, this not only entertains your toddler, but can also engage other kids in line, creating a mini sing-along session that makes the wait more enjoyable for everyone.
Our family’s Billboard top five selection includes such hits as the “ABCs,” “Head, Shoulders Knees and Toes,” and “ If You’re Happy If You Know It.”
5. Simple Art Supplies
Okay, trying to get a toddler to finger paint or color in a busy theme park like Disney World might sound crazy, but hear me out. If you keep the art supplies simple and well-contained, it can be a lifesaver while waiting in line.
I suggest packing simple art supplies, like a small notepad and crayons. Let your toddler draw pictures of their favorite Disney characters, the rides, or anything else that captures their imagination. Drawing can be a calming activity that not only helps pass the time, but also engages their creativity (and it doesn’t have to make a mess!)
What to Pack in Your Toddler Kit
When it comes to entertaining toddlers in lines at Disney World (or any theme park, really), I highly recommend prepping for the experience by packing a toddler kit. Sure, you’ve got to bring a diaper bag or backpack filled with essentials – but adding a few extra items just for those long waits can be a sanity saver. And, as an added perk, your toddler kit can be used while in line, waiting for a meal at table-service restaurants, or even while waiting for a parade to start.
You don’t need to go overboard; your toddler kid can be very simple and still do the trick to keep your day moving a long. My kit for two children includes the following:
- A sticker book
- Bubbles
- Their favorite snacks
- A water bottle
- A note pad
- Crayons
We know standing in line at Disney World can be a frustrating experience for you and your toddler. However, with a bit of planning, you can make waiting in line just as much fun as any other part of the day. Remember, the key is to keep things varied and interesting so your toddler remains engaged!
