Separation Anxiety

Continuing off my post from last week about theme parks, if you decide to go, here is something to keep in mind, theme parks are huge and crowded, meaning it is easy to lose family members.

Part of the line for a Harry Potter ride

This summer my family went to Universal in Orlando and we lost my dad (we often loose him – arenas, malls, parking lots, etc). Because we were out of country, we had no cell phones to contact him. Luckily he is 6’1½ and we could spot him wandering in Harry Potter land. The point being, it’s very easy to become separated.

So here are some tips to help avoid that feeling of anxiety:

• Know what everyone is wearing. I’ve seen groups all wear the same shirt or jersey to easily locate group members.
• Practice the buddy system, especially with kids.

My buddy was my sister and I wore a bright colour

• If your child has a disability, I’ve seen people make shirts for the child saying what their disability is and if they become separated, they provide contact information on the shirt.
• Have a cell phone or walkie-talkies.
• Wear bright colours.
• Have a meeting place, incase anyone is separated.
• Carry a picture of everyone, you can show it to security, incase a more serious issue occurs.
• If travelling with kids, emphasis the importance of staying with the group. Set out consequences and rewards before going to the park.
• Ex. If Billy runs ahead, he’ll miss out on a ride or if Billy stays with everyone, he can receive a treat.

Finally found dad

If you have tips, please post in the comment section.

The happiest place on earth

We’ve all heard the slogan, “the happiest place on earth”. 
Disney, Universal, Canada’s Wonderland, and other theme parks provide great family fun and entertainment.

Before going to a theme park over your vacation, there are some things to consider, such as:

• Price
• Tickets
• Food and drinks
• Souvenirs
• Crowds

• Can be very busy, so safety may be a concern
• Waiting in lines, some offer an express pass but this will come at an additional cost
• Need patience for lines and parking
• It will be loud, with screaming kids and crying babies
• Weather
• When the weather is nice, there will be more people
• Bad weather (thunderstorms) will not be as busy but some rides will be shut down
• Can be difficult finding a place to get out of the sun or rain. Seating can be hard to find.
• Age

Theme parks have something for all ages, but that doesn’t mean that you should take your toddler. Everyone can still enjoy themselves but it will limit your choice of rides and it can be difficult maneuvering a stroller. Also, your children won’t remember it. My parents took me when I was young but I don’t remember anything, besides my Fifel doll. If you’re going to take your children, take them when they will be able to remember the park. Children should be at least four but eight is a great age. At this age they can do more rides, walk around the park will less complaining and remember the day.