Tips to Enjoying Theme Parks with the Kids

By: Nettie Gray

To kids, theme parks are paradise.

It’s a favorite destination of the young and the young at heart. Which makes it perfect for  travel itineraries with kids.

It also works well as a reward when your child approaches you and asks, “What do we do after I write my essay?”

But just like any other attraction, it is crucial devise strategies to navigating the place.

You know kids, they get ecstatic the moment they see the theme park and all the preparations you’ve done may suddenly go down the drain. The highly-anticipated trip can anytime turn out a nightmare.

You can still have fun even after taking the planning stage seriously. The trip might even be a lot more fun with planning on the side.

So, let’s get down to business.

Avoid peak season.

Otherwise, you are to spend longer time in queue.

You might not even maximize the passes you purchased.

On major holidays and long weekends, expect theme parks to be packed with visitors. Visit instead on ordinary days. Saturdays are as always the busiest day in the week, and so is Monday. At least target a day in the middle of the week, from Tuesdays to Thursdays.

Go there as early as you can so you can enjoy the rides before the park gets crowded.

Pack essentials.

Change of clothes. Rides can get the kids wet of water and sweat. Bring extra clothes so you can change right away. Souvenir shirts are usually pricey. You’d rather spend the money for another ride.

Reusable water bottle. This will save you money, and time!

Snacks. These are life-savers when the canteen or all restaurants and food kiosks are full.

Sun protection. The weather can be sweltering and you will be doing a lot of walking around. Protect your skin by taking sunscreen with you.

Strollers. You will eventually get tired carrying your young one. Bring a stroller with you so you can also give your arms a rest.

Zip lock bags. Place your gadgets here if you are to try water rides. You might also want to  invest in your own cheap poncho. Chances are, the price of one at the theme park is thrice its worth in supermarkets.

Few more tips:

• Take photos where you parked your car. It will save you troubles later on when everyone is dead exhausted and are itching to finally take a rest.

• Smile. Be pleasant with the staff. These people are there for a living, and usually receive little. Extending kindness would go a long way. Do not take it out on the park employees should the kids throw tantrums.

• Assign a meeting place and be sure to show everyone where it is. In case someone gets lost, this is where you will have to reconvene.

• Take advantage of show times or parade hours. This is usually when lines are shorter. People are busy watching the show.

• Be sensitive of other customers. We would complain about people taking too long on the food counter because they only think about which to order once they reached the front of the line. Do not be that annoying customer. Discuss with the group which to order before you fall in line.

• There is of course a strategy to making the most of your day. Begin at the farthest ride in the park so you can avoid traffic.