How to Navigate Walt Disney World Resort With Your Preschooler

Before your trip, take time to familiarize yourself with the park layout. It's best to head straight to the rides geared for preschoolers, like The Barnstormer, so they aren't pulled toward ones they can't ride. There are so many throughout the park that are OK for little kids, so mark them on a map and make a game plan for your visit.

One of the smartest things you can do is sign up for MyDisneyExperience before heading into Walt Disney World. This gives you insider info on wait times for rides and lets you sign up in advance for different rides and experiences. Make yourself a list and schedule so you can easily navigate the day.

Yes, you love your stroller, but it might be easier to simply rent one at the entrance to the park. This will give you one less thing to pack for your family outing. It also lets your kids take a break from walking while still enjoying all the magic of the park.

There's nothing worse than trying to find a spot to eat with an over-hungry child. Make restaurant reservations online before even heading to the park so you know you're guaranteed a seat at any Disney restaurant, like the Brown Derby at Disney's Hollywood Studios. You can also talk through food options while reserving a table so your child is prepped for what she can order.

You can sign up for character greeting thanks to FastPass+, and you can also pick a spot with character dining. This ensures your child gets the chance to interact with her favorites, like meeting Daring Disney Pals and Circus Stars at Pete's Silly Sideshow in Magic Kingdom. Or you can check out where different character greetings take place in the park and add them to your daily plan.

From first words to first steps to the first day of school, there are so many special “firsts” for families with little ones to experience. Walt Disney World guests traveling with little ones are sure to add to the many “firsts” in their preschoolers’ lives. Check out disneyworld.com/littleones for help in planning that perfect vacation with your preschooler.