What happens if child turns 3 while at Disney?

What Happens If a Child Turns 3 While at Disney?

If you are planning a magical trip to Disney with your little one who is about to turn 3, you might be wondering what happens when they reach this milestone during your vacation. The good news is that Disney has special guidelines in place for children who transition from being considered a “lap child” to requiring their own ticket once they turn 3. Here’s what you need to know:

When Does The Child’s Age Matter?

At Disney, a child’s age is determined by their age on the first day of your trip. This means that if your child turns 3 at any point during your visit, they will be considered 3 years old for the entire duration of your stay. It’s important to take this into account when planning your trip and booking tickets or dining reservations.

Do Children Under 3 Get in for Free?

Yes, children under 3 do not require a park ticket at Disney World or Disneyland. They can enter the parks and enjoy almost all the attractions and entertainment for free. This is a great opportunity for families to make the most of their visit while their child is still considered a “lap child.”

What Happens When the Child Turns 3?

Once your child turns 3, they will need their own park ticket. Disney’s policy is strict on this matter, and children who are 3 years old or older must have a valid ticket to enter the parks. The ticket prices for children aged 3-9 are usually lower compared to adult prices, but they vary depending on the type of ticket and the duration of your visit.

Can I Still Get Discounts?

Disney offers various ticket discounts and promotions throughout the year, including discounts for children. Even if your child turns 3 during your visit, you may still be eligible for any ongoing promotions or discounts for younger children. It’s recommended to check the official Disney website or consult with a travel agent to find the best deals available.

How Do I Purchase a Ticket for My Child?

To purchase a ticket for your child who has turned 3, you can do so in multiple ways. If you haven’t already bought tickets before your child’s birthday, you can simply include them in your ticket purchase when making reservations online or through the Disney app. Alternatively, you can also purchase tickets at the park entrance or at guest services.

Are There Any Exceptions?

While Disney is generally strict about the age policy, there may be some exceptions in certain situations. For example, if you have booked a vacation package that includes your child under 3 at the time of booking, they might still be able to enter the parks without a ticket even if they turn 3 during the trip. However, it’s essential to check with Disney or your travel agent for specific details and requirements.

What About Dining Reservations?

Disney dining reservations are generally not affected by a child turning 3. However, it’s essential to update your reservation information and include your child as a separate guest once they reach the age of 3. This helps Disney’s dining system allocate the correct number of seats and ensure an accurate dining experience.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Attractions?

Some attractions at Disney parks have height or age restrictions for safety reasons. Once your child turns 3, they will be able to experience a wider range of attractions. However, it’s important to check the specific height requirements for certain rides and attractions as children may still need to meet these criteria to participate.

Can I Celebrate My Child’s Birthday at Disney?

Absolutely! Disney is renowned for creating magical moments, and celebrating your child’s birthday at the parks can be an unforgettable experience. From character dining experiences to personalized treats, Disney offers various options to make your child’s birthday extra special. You can also inquire about birthday celebration packages and services that can add an extra touch of magic to the occasion.

What Should I Do If My Child Turns 3 During My Disney Trip?

If your child is turning 3 during your Disney trip, it’s recommended to plan ahead and make the necessary arrangements. Ensure that they have a valid park ticket for the duration of your visit. Keep in mind the attractions they will now be eligible to experience and make any necessary updates to dining reservations. Embrace the magic of your child’s birthday while immersing yourself in the enchanting world of Disney.

Where Can I Get More Information?

For more detailed information and specific guidelines regarding children’s ages and tickets at Disney parks, it’s best to visit the official Disney World or Disneyland website. They provide comprehensive information on ticket prices, age policies, and frequently asked questions to assist you in planning the perfect Disney vacation for your family.

Now, let’s dive into some frequently asked questions related to what happens when a child turns 3 while at Disney:

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I still use a stroller for my child after they turn 3?

Yes, strollers are permitted for children of any age at Disney parks. However, it’s important to ensure that your stroller adheres to Disney’s stroller size restrictions and guidelines.

2. Are there any special celebrations for children turning 3 at Disney?

While Disney doesn’t have specific birthday celebrations solely for children turning 3, there are numerous ways to make their birthday extra memorable. You can inquire about personalized cakes, character meet-and-greets, or even plan a special dining experience for the occasion.

3. Do I need to bring proof of my child’s age?

Disney typically doesn’t require proof of a child’s age unless there is a specific reason for verification. However, it’s always a good idea to have a form of identification handy, such as a birth certificate or passport, especially if there might be any discrepancies.

4. Can my child still use child swap services for attractions?

Child swap, also known as rider switch, allows parents to take turns experiencing attractions without waiting in line again. Once your child turns 3, they will be considered a full-fledged park guest and won’t be eligible to utilize child swap services anymore.

5. Are there any freebies or perks for children turning 3 at Disney?

Although there are no specific freebies or perks for children turning 3 at Disney, they will still enjoy the magic and experiences of the parks. You can, however, inquire about any special promotions or celebration packages available during your visit.

6. Can my child still participate in character meet-and-greets?

Absolutely! Once your child turns 3, they will have the opportunity to interact and meet their favorite Disney characters during designated character meet-and-greet experiences throughout the parks.

7. Are there any age restrictions for Disney dining plans?

Disney dining plans do not have age restrictions. As long as you have purchased and assigned a dining plan to your child, they can enjoy the allocated meals and snacks according to the plan’s guidelines.

8. Can I still use the FastPass system for my child after they turn 3?

Yes, once your child turns 3, they will require their own park ticket, allowing them to utilize the FastPass system and reserve attractions in advance.

9. Can I bring food or snacks for my child into the park?

Yes, Disney allows guests to bring outside food and non-alcoholic beverages into the parks. This includes snacks for your child. However, it’s important to note that coolers or large containers are not permitted.

10. How can I make my child’s birthday extra special at Disney?

Disney offers numerous ways to make your child’s birthday memorable, such as personalized cakes, character dining experiences, and specialized celebrations. You can explore the various options available and even inquire about customizing your child’s birthday experience.

11. Can my child still participate in the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique after turning 3?

Yes, once your child turns 3, they will be eligible to participate in the magical transformation experience offered at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. This experience allows children to be styled like their favorite Disney princess or prince.

12. Are there any restrictions for toddlers on certain rides or attractions?

Disney has height and age restrictions for certain rides and attractions to ensure the safety of guests. Once your child turns 3, they will be able to experience a wider range of rides and attractions. However, it’s important to check the height requirements and any other restrictions for specific attractions before planning your visit.

As you plan your Disney vacation, keep the above information in mind to make the transition from “lap child” to a full-fledged Disney guest a seamless and memorable experience for your little one. Enjoy the magic that awaits you at the happiest place on earth!