Invariably, when my kids and I spend a day at the Park, we see a family or two on the brink of emotional disaster. Traveling with kids, especially to theme parks, inherently lends itself to spinouts, meltdowns and tantrums, both by kids AND parents. The first few times I visited theme parks with both my girls, I had to learn many of these lessons the hard way.


Five ways to avoid spinouts, meltdowns and tantrums:

1. Prepare—This one is hard for me because I am not the most organized Model om on the block, but I notice on the days when I am prepared on the morning of, with clothes laid out and bags packed from the night before, then the day at the Park will run more smoothly than on days when I am disorganized and frazzled, trying to get everyone ready.
2. Snack & Hydrate—The Park does not allow outside food or drink (except water), so I recommend stopping by The Market just to the left as you enter the Park, to grab some healthy snacks that are easy to eat on the go like cheese sticks, yogurt drinks, granola bars, and cheerios in a tub.  You can bring your own water bottles or buy some at the Park. It gets really hot in the middle of summer so being hydrated will help all the way around.
3. Set Expectations—Talk about the theme park experience on the way there with your kiddos so they know what to expect. Discuss some of the things they will see, that they might have to wait in line and what approximate time you are planning to leave. Then again, when it is almost time to leave, give them that beloved “five minute warning.” (The five-minute trick was a godsend to me when my daughter turned two. I don’t think I could survive motherhood without it).
4. Plan Ahead—Take a peek at the map online and read up on the blog on the things to do for the various ages. For example, if your kids are on the younger side, you’ll want to head to the left upon first entering the Park, since the attractions on that side of the Park are geared for toddler age. The families with older kids may want to start off by going to the right to hit the Technic Coaster as soon as possible. Also, measure your kids before you go and note the height requirements on some of the bigger rides so you know which ones your kids can and cannot ride.
5. Take Precautionary Safety Measures— I wrote a post a few months ago about how I “misplaced” my two-year-old while at LEGOLAND. From that experience I put together a list of a few safety precautions parents can take to help prevent something similar happening to you. CLICK HERE to read them before your trip.