Ready for a day at the amusement park? If you’re bringing your toddler along, you better hold on a minute before you go out the door, jump in the car, and drive off to Happy World with the little one. Toddlers may be starting to explore the world on their own two feet, but they need extra special attention when spending a day at an amusement park. Consider some of these ideas:
Bring the Diaper Bag!
No day at an amusement park is complete without carrying around the old diaper bag. Of course, you’ll need more than just diapers in there to prepare for a trip to the amusement park with your toddler. Along with diapers or training pants, pack a bottle of hand sanitizer, sun screen, at least one change of clothes, and snacks and beverages your toddler will eat.
Prepare for a Change in the Weather
In some parts of the country throughout the year, weather can drastically change over the course of a day. Prepare for a change in weather by taking along an umbrella, poncho, or raincoat for your toddler. Also pack a pair of short clothes of long clothes to protect your little loved one from getting too hot or cold.
The Buddy System
It can be tricky going to an amusement park with only your toddler coming along for the ride. What if you have to use the restroom and cannot find a suitable place to secure your toddler while indisposed? What if you want to enjoy an “adult” ride? Be sure to bring along a trusted friend or family member to make your trip easier for you just in case you need a second set of responsible eyes during the day. Make the trip to the amusement park more fun for your toddler by inviting a close friend or family member who has a young child who will be able to relate to your toddler.
Entertainment
Spending a day at an amusement park for you, but not always is that the case for toddlers. In case your toddler should start to show signs of getting bored at the amusement park, have a small plush doll, toy, picture book, or other form of handy (but small) entertainment that will keep toddler happy and quiet.
Plan Time for Toddler Activities
Most amusement parks have something for toddlers to do or look at. Very tame family rides, a colorful show, and animals can all entertain your toddler for hours at an amusement park. Before you visit the amusement park, call or go online to find out what entertainment, attractions, and rides the park has to offer young children. Plan your day and spread these activities out over the course of the day so that your toddler is not bored for too long at any point during your visit.
Don’t Forget the Stroller!
Perhaps the most important thing you will bring along with you when you go to the amusement park with your toddler is a stroller! Your toddler will certainly want to spend some time walking on his or her own while at the amusement park. But when she gets tired and is ready to get off her feet, the stroller will be there to give the young explorer a comfortable ride around the rest of the park. The stroller is going to help comfort you just as much, giving your child a portable safe haven (don’t forget to strap your toddler into the seat!) and giving you peace of mind; after all, in a stroller, your child can be in front of you, protected, and comfortable.
