traveling with small children

[mpiasec100]

thinking of taking a cruise with 2 small kids,ages 2 and 4. Not sure if a 7 day would be too long or a 3-4day would be more appropriate. Any ideas out there?

[mom x4,grandma x4]

Thats a tough queston not knowing your kids but I do know our young grandkids liked the longer cruise better.

 

The kids need a couple days to adjust to the routine.

If the 4 year old likes to go to the clubs he will be so busy having fun he may like a longer trip.

A 2 year old it probably wont make any difference.

 

But remember even the best of kids, even older kds can have a melt down on board from over stimulation.

Try to keep feeding and nap time the same as at home, that will help. Dont rush them all over the place because there are things you want to do.

Give them plenty of down time to just relax and they will have a much better time. Thats another reason for alonger cruise, part of your time will be in the room for naps.

Take a stroller that they can lay back in and nap.

Many kids fall asleep at dinner, having a stroller they can sleep in really helps for you to enjoy your dinner.

 

The Mickey pool get very hectic at times but just behind it is the kiddie splash zone. (not sure where this is on the Dream) This is never crowded and the kids love the jets of water popping up now and then. Swim diapers required. Lots of fun for the little ones without getting run over by older kids.

 

I believe that with young kids you do spend more time in the room so on a shorter cruise you dont get to enjoy as much of the cruise compared to a longer cruise. At least on the longer cruises you have more days to enjoy yourself.

Hopefully the 2 year old will like the nursery so you can have some adult quiet time at the hot tubs or pool area.

 

Dont hesitate to take them to the shows, this si Disney and its filled with kids who do talk and make noise, so dont worry about it. They always have a kid friendly movie during the day too for them to enjoy and again you dont have to worry about noise or them wanting to get up during the show. The theater will be filled with other kids doing the same thing.:)

 

Cartoons will be on the Tv so the kids will have something to watch while they settle down for a nap. Longer cruises have a character breakfast . Shorter cruises dont. If they like characters they will love the breakfast.

 

Good luck with your choice, but i vote for longer cruise so you will have more days to be out enjoying yourself even with nap time. A short cruise just doesnt give enough time.