Travel Expert Urges Parents to Avoid One Common Phrase Before Disney Trips

With summer holidays fast approaching, many families are gearing up for a long-awaited trip to one of the most iconic destinations in the world: a Disney resort. Whether it's Walt Disney World in Florida, Disneyland Paris, or any of the other magical locations across the globe, the excitement of treating children to a Disney experience is unmatched.

However, travel experts are cautioning parents against one well-meaning but potentially problematic phrase when preparing young children for the adventure.

Over 140 million people visit Disney parks every year, making them the most visited amusement parks in the world. But despite all the planning and anticipation, one small misstep in how the trip is presented to kids could lead to unexpected meltdowns.

Popular TikTok creator and travel-savvy mom @disney_beignet has gone viral for sharing a key lesson learned from multiple visits to Disney parks.

"When you tell your young children that you're going to Walt Disney World, do not, under any circumstances, use the words 'We're going to see Mickey Mouse.' Every Disney cast member who works in a hotel lobby knows exactly where I'm going with this," she explained.

"I cannot count the number of times I have been in one of those hotel lobbies and a family with a child who is four or five says, 'It's time for us to go to our room,' and the child loses it. Through tears, they scream something like, 'You promised we were going to see Mickey.'"

The issue, she explained, is rooted in how young children interpret language. While parents may mean that at some point during the trip the family will encounter Mickey Mouse, a child may interpret that promise quite literally.

If a Disney trip is on your family's agenda this summer, here's something important to keep in mind.

Melvyn Longhurst "What you meant when you told them that was that at some point on this vacation, you will get to meet Mickey Mouse. But what your child heard was that as soon as we get out of the car or off the plane, Mickey Mouse will be there to give me a giant hug."

Because young children, especially those under six, often lack the concept of time and scheduling, the disappointment of not seeing Mickey immediately can lead to distress. That experience can potentially cloud what should be a joyful day.

Parenting expert Dr. Tina Payne Bryson advises that fostering emotional intelligence is crucial when preparing for family vacations. She explains that children often have heightened emotions about trips, and parents can help by validating those feelings while encouraging flexibility.

For instance, discussing how to cope with disappointment if things don’t go as planned can enhance a child's ability to navigate various social situations. Dr. Bryson notes that teaching kids coping mechanisms will empower them, not just in Disney parks but in life's unpredictable events.

Do not use one phrase...

Disney

To help avoid these situations, the travel expert recommends focusing on immediate events rather than long-term highlights.

"My advice is to get your kid excited about what you're doing that day," she said. This approach helps children stay grounded in the moment and reduces anxiety or frustration over unmet expectations.

She added that this type of clear and manageable expectation-setting can be especially important for children on the autism spectrum, like her daughter.

"This kind of expectation-setting is especially helpful for kids like my daughter who are on the autism spectrum so they have a sense of what they're walking into ahead of time."

Another helpful tip she offered was to prepare children in advance if parents plan to leave the park temporarily, such as returning to a hotel for an afternoon break. She emphasized telling kids they will be "coming back later" to avoid confusion or upset.

"My advice is to get your kid excited about what you're doing that day," the expert says.

Disney

Reframing Expectations

Travel expert Heidi Anderson emphasizes the importance of managing children’s expectations before a Disney trip. She suggests that parents avoid phrases like, 'You’re going to have the best time ever!' as they can set unrealistic standards. Instead, she recommends framing the experience as an adventure with ups and downs, creating a more authentic emotional landscape.

By discussing potential challenges, such as long lines or unexpected weather, parents can help children build resilience. This fosters a mindset of adaptability, making the trip enjoyable regardless of unforeseen circumstances.

The advice resonated strongly with parents online. One commenter wrote, "Yes, also setting them up for what's happening just that day makes it less overwhelming; they know what to expect without it being vague or too much."

Another user shared their own story, reinforcing the importance of clarity.

"Also, TELL YOUR KID YOU'RE GOING. My parents took me out of school a few days early for a Disney surprise trip when I was six. I thought we were 'going on a trip' just for a few hours before school. I had a meltdown in the parking lot because I read the parking sign and realized I would miss presenting my book report."

For families hoping to make the most of their Disney vacation, it turns out that what you say before you even step foot in the park might make all the difference. Setting the right expectations, keeping communication clear, and focusing on the immediate joys of the journey can help ensure the magic lives up to the dream.

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Solutions & Coping Strategies

As families embark on their Disney adventures, it's vital to cultivate a balanced perspective on expectations and experiences. Involving experts like Dr. James Lewis, a child psychologist, can further enrich this journey. He emphasizes that emotional preparation can significantly impact children's enjoyment and learning during trips.

By openly addressing potential challenges and encouraging emotional resilience, parents can help their children develop vital coping skills. Ultimately, creating a family environment where emotions are acknowledged will lead to more meaningful experiences, whether at Disney or beyond.