I will admit though that Mr. Geek and I were a bit apprehensive about taking a toddler to Disney World. We've both been there (pre-parenthood) and obviously weren't paying attention to the target age of the parks. We kept wondering, "is S too young for this?". After reading Beyond the Attractions: A Guide to Walt Disney World with Preschoolers ($15.99) by Lisa M. Battista, we're feeling much more excited (and relieved) about our upcoming trip.
This guide was great, and a very easy read. I read it nearly cover to cover in two nights and jotted notes in the margins about things we'd like to do. The book is well-organized and full of tips specifically for children under 5. There are suggestions for areas in the park that are great for toddlers, like Ariel's Grotto, and even things outside of the park like a guide to playgrounds and tips for keeping easily-tired little ones busy and engaged. I couldn't believe how many free activities there are for guests staying in the Disney Hotels (which we will be doing).
I also like how many inside tips are shared, like asking a cast member to "wake Tinkerbell" in one of the shops and getting to be the lucky recipient of the waking ceremony, getting sprinkled with Pixie dust. And the tips on family-friendly features such as strollers, Baby Care Centers and child care options are so helpful.
While visiting a bookstore this weekend, I checked out some of the other Disney World guides, and was surprised at the lack of info on Disney for toddlers. This book is definitely unique in that respect, and I highly recommend it for parents of preschoolers going to Disney. The appendix is full of lists of playgrounds, character greeting locations, dining rates, a packing list, must-see attractions, and more. We'll definitely be taking this book with us, and at under $16 (you can get a discounted version at the website), it's worth the investment. I would have liked to see a map or two or some photos within the book, but that would have just been an added bonus.
One K&K reader is going to win a copy of the book
Visit the Beyond the Attractions website and leave a comment about something you learned or you liked about the book.
Extra Entries (leave a separate comment for each one):
- Blog about this contest (2 entries--leave 2 comments)
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- Follow @katydidandkid on Twitter and tweet this giveaway, leaving a link to your tweet in the comments. You can tweet once per day (leave a comment each day). You can copy and paste my tweet if you'd like: Win a copy of Beyond the Attractions: A Guide to Walt Disney World with Preschoolers @KatydidandKid http://bit.ly/duy4Kt
You must do the first entry in order to enter ("I want to win, thanks!" comments will NOT be considered). You will have until Sunday February 14th at 11:59pm EST to enter. The winners will be chosen via random number generator the next day and notified by email. I'll also post the winners on my blog HERE. If I don't hear back from the winner within 72 hours, I'll pick another.
Disclosure: I received a copy of Beyond the Attractions for review purposes.
How funny, just last night my husband and I were discussing taking our son to Disney this time next year. His first comment was, "But don't they have to be 5 before they can enjoy that?"
ReplyDeleteWhat perfect timing! It's been 15 years since I've visited and it was nice to learn there are child care options, and attractions that are good for toddlers.
Save Time. Learning about everything Disney World has to offer families with small kids is a time-consuming process. Save hours of research with this guide that places all the applicable Disney World information right at your fingertips.
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I like that they tell you which Disney World theme park attractions are ideal for your young kids when they need to slow down and take a break. Woo! A break!
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I'm an email subscriber !
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I like that it's from a parent's persepctive. Thanks for the chance.
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I'm a subscriber.
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email subscriber
ReplyDeleteI don't see my first comment???? ANyway i learned the book was written for parents by parents and I like that it's meant to make the trip easier for toddlers.
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ReplyDeletei didnt realize you could walk 5-10 MILES a day at the parks!
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I'm interested to find out what they mean by "hidden attractions for kids" but think that the premise of the book is great. I'm so excited to take my girls there as I never had the opportunity when I was younger. It's also nice that they tell you which rides are too scary for preschoolers! SO helpful!
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I love that this is aimed at parents with little ones. I have two toddlers and I would LOVE to take them soon. I am sure this would come in handy!
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I am a subscriber!
ReplyDeleteI blogged about the giveaway!
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My 2nd comment about blogging!
ReplyDeleteWe are planning a trip to Disney this summer with my 2 an 4 yr old grandsons,so Taking a Break. Read which Disney World theme park attractions are ideal for your young kids when they need to slow down and take a break.
ReplyDeletesounds good,little kids tire easily
vlbelk(at)hotmail.com
blogged # 1
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vlbelk(at)Hotmail.com
blogged # 2
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vlbelk(at)Hotmail.com
email subscriber
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I follow via google friend connect
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Follow @katydidandkid on Twitter and tweeted
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vlbelk(at)hotmail.com
I like that the book saves the Disney World visitor time since all the information to make for an enjoyable visit are right there in the book. No need to spend time online researching it all. Thanks!
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tweet
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I subscribe to your updates.
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I follow my blog via Google Friend Connect.
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I like how the book describes is any of the rides are too intense for little ones.
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lmarston AT yahoo DOT com
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lmarston AT yahoo DOT com
What I liked about the book is all the tips they offer before your visit, including "Have a plan."
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lmarston AT yahoo DOT com
I like that it tells you how to get the most bang for your buck. Saving $$ is always great!
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Email subscriber.
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Twitter and tweet.
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Following with google friends.
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It references which attractions are best for toddlers.
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I like the part of the book that has the Hidden Attractions!
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I'd love to find out how I can get guaranteed seating for some popular Disney World events and shows! tylerpants(at)gmail.com
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ReplyDeleteI like the tip to make Advance Dining Reservations well in advance of your trip by calling 407-WDW-DINE.
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ReplyDeleteI follow too!
ReplyDeletei think i could learn a lot, the help i would use most are the parts about what to do when kids are tired ect
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