planning a disney world vacation with a 1yr old and a 2 yr old

Amber - posted on 05/15/2011

Omg, i have to do the first haircut..My daughter doesnt have a lot of hair, but she has enough now that we could cut it to even it up...thanks SOO much!

Nancy - posted on 05/15/2011

Ashley, I am so sorry that all you wanted was some tips from someone with experience taking their kids to Disney world and you were swormed with judgmental answers that really have nothing to do with the actual question. If there is ONE thing I learned by being a parent, it is to never judge another's parenting skills ever again. Every child's temperament, experience, raising, and home life are so different I can never know what's best for another's child. That being said, my son is also great in public, loves new experiences and has been to Disney World 4 times in his 2 years. He LOVES it!!! He can go on almost every ride (especially in the Magic Kingdom). When he was younger I used to even wear him in my wrap or carrier while he napped and went on the rides with him sleeping. There are a group of moms on the Disney website that give excellent advise and tips. Definitely check that out. We got one of those Mickey shaped fans to clip on the stroller and it was a life saver for us for many reasons. It kept him cool, but was also a great toy for distractions. I would take a few teething rings that you can clip on your stroller though. We needed them to angle the fan the right way. Take advantage of the ride share with you and your husband so you can go on the big rides without waiting in line. If you are still nursing, the Carosel of Progress and Hall of Presidents in MK are key. Also, the Circle of Life in EPCOT was good for that. Taking the small ones are a good way to check out some things that we would never really do before them. I do have an endless list of tips that worked for us. Feel free to message me for more. I'm so excited for you. You will have a GREAT time!!! (Oh, and if you need a first haircut, the barber shop on Main St. is THE place to get one. It's cheap, they save all his hair in a package with pixie dust, and they get mouse ears with "first haircut" on the back.)

Amber - posted on 05/15/2011

We are going to Disney World in June and this will be my first ever trip...Of course my 22 month old has no clue, but I'm sure she will have a ball!! I hope you guys have a fabulous trip! I look forward to reading everyones advice on this one too!!

Michelle - posted on 05/15/2011

I haven't read through all the responses so I apologize if I give repeated advice :) I took my daughter for the first time when she was about 2 1/2 and we just took our son this past Nov. and he was 9 months (she was 3 1/2) and they both absolutely loved it! My daughter loved it so much the first time she's been 4 x's since then! We live about an hour and half away so it's convenient Thank God! I would look at the website allears.net for reviews of Disney resorts, restaurants, etc. They have pics of the interiors of all the resort rooms, menus for all the restaurants and advice for just about anything else you need.
When we took my daughter for the first time I was about 6 months pregnant and had fully intended to go back each day and take a nap with her. We were there for 6 days and went back only twice for naps because she was content sleeping in her stroller. I seriously suggest taking a nice stroller that they can lay down in and the ones they rent in the parks are hard plastic that don't recline. I don't know if you're flying or driving but there are places you can rent a stroller and they will deliver right to your room and pick up when you're done with it.
If you are a member if BabyCenter.com there is a wonderful group that I'm a member of called Disney World and the ladies on there are able and willing to give advice about anything Disney related :)
In a nut shell I would just go into the vacation relaxed and knowing that with young kids you are going to want some down time for all of you and just watch for their cues. You know your children the best!

Shar - posted on 05/15/2011

Hey Ashley... we've taken our kids & other families to Disney for the past 4 yrs and there are certainly some tricks to ensure everyone can actually be happy at the Happiest Place on Earth!!! First off, we try to emphasize that there's a lot more to do outside of the theme parks... take this web site for ex http://playfulpost.weebly.com/orlando-vi... and consider Downtown Disney & Celebration or taking a boat ride to the diff hotels like Boardwalk/Beach/Yacht/Swan/Dolphin. That's a whole afternoon & evening of fun (free!) esp if you stay until dusk when Boardwalk actually comes alive like Coney Island! Also, we try our best to stick to routine & normal nap times... this has meant going to the hotel after lunch (or the RV in the parking lot!) and returning late in the day or just playing at the hotels the rest of the day. Make all of the commutes fun by playing disney music, spotting characters in signs along the way, take the boats, trains & monorails and have LOTS of small snacks to keep everyone content (including adults!) It's easier to make it a great experience if you remember to expect heat (wear cool clothes) & crowds (decide on just 3 main attractions and let everythng else come as it may!) Have a great time!!!

Katie - posted on 05/15/2011

We have taken my daughter to Disney the past two years, when she was 18 months and 2 1/2, and have had a great time! We spent a lot of time at Magic Kingdom on It's a Small World, Peter Pan, etc., but she also loved Hollywood Studios. They have a Pixar parade, Toy Story ride, and Disney Junior show. She also loved the Little Mermaid show. The Chef Mickey breakfast at the Contemporary is definitely worth scheduling, too. We were very flexible and realized that we couldn't fit everything in and had to make time for naps. Like you, we plan to go back more than once as she gets older. One tip, bring your own stroller. It's probably more comfortable than the ones you can rent and the kids are more likely to nap in it. I could talk about Disney all day. Have fun!!!!

Rachel - posted on 05/15/2011

@ Saran: It is a MUST isn't it? I couldnt imagine going without it! Made a dramatic difference in our trip!

Saran - posted on 05/15/2011

@Rachel Limas - I see you recommended www.touringplans.com too! We used it too & loved it. I'm a planner so that kind of thing was right up my alley..LOL

Saran - posted on 05/15/2011

We just came back from Disney (April 2011) & we had a ball! My sons are 3 & 7 so they're slightly older but I can tell you that you need at minimum 2 days but preferably 3 days to do Disney. We did 2-day passes & we had no time to let our 3 yo take a nap. So, if you want to build in naps (you can go & come back because parking is good for the whole day) you might to spread it out over 3 days. Fast Passes are AWESOME! Try & get a phone app that will tell you the wait times on rides without having to go over to the ride & see. I found two great websites. http://www.mousesavers.com/ is a good site for Disney deals, etc... But the site we found most helpful was http://touringplans.com/. For $10.95/year, you can have full access to very specific plans for how to navigate the park most efficiently. We downloaded a plan for a 2-day trip to Disney if you have small kids & arrive at 10am. It was that specific. It tells you where to go & when. We had it on our phones & followed it for the most part & saw & did everything we wanted to see. I highly recommend it. Good luck & have a ball at the happiest place on Earth!

Rachel - posted on 05/15/2011

If your little ones have something like Autsim, WDW Parks offer a 'pass' that you can get at the c/s desk of any park, and it is good for all the parks. This pass allows you to 'jump" ahead in line by using the handicap entrance. Saves time and meltdowns for our autism kiddos. Also, breakfasts in the parks are a great way to get into a park before all the crowds of people! What I loved about this was would make our reservations for about an hour before the parks would open. Then we would run the around the parks until about noon. Then it was back to the hotel for a nap and a quick swim at the hottest times of the day. We would then jump on the transportation to either back to the parks, or Downtown Disney/Mini Golf/ where ever by 330-4 and stayed until about 30-45 mins before the parks closed. This helped us remain alert and mostly rested and avoide the deadlock of people! A MUST site for anyone going to disney is http://touringplans.com/ they offer a crowd calender that explains by crowds and waiting times the best and worst parks to visit on each day of the year. I have used it twice and the difference is Night and Day! Absolutely worth it! Another email listing/website to get is AllEars.net. fantastic tips and heads ups from other people who have travelded to disney recently. They also have links for menus for ALL restaurants Disney (all parks, DTD, and hotels!!) I would definitely use that site for planning any character breakfasts that might please your 2.5 yr old son. Definitely plan for many breaks and for weather. I went once in feb. and it rained the entire trip. Good thing we brought light sweaters just in case. Another fantastic idea for the way home. Get boxes from the desk of your hotel and mail your clothes home. That way you will have room in your luggage for your souvenirs! No sense in paying excess baggage fees! :D I hope this helps! Have an INCREDIBLE trip... and dont forget to take me with you! lol

Ruby - posted on 05/15/2011

We took my son to disney when he was one and had a wonderful time. The baby care centers are so nice but be sure you bring diapers because they are expensive at disney. Also bring your own stroller cause renting them can get costly. We got an insulated backpack to carry cold water and juice along with sippy cups.

Kristen - posted on 05/15/2011

I live very close to Disney World, and I HATE taking my young kids there. In January you run the risk of cold. Yes, cold. The past two years we have had 30 degree weather and even snow in January. If you have been before you realize that Disney World is standing in a long line to ride a 30 second ride. Then spend an hour walking around the park to stand in a long line all over again. They have even removed the playground area, which was the only place that little kids could get out of that stroller and run around. The only things I would recommend with young kids is to ride the trains... the railroad around the park, the people mover in tomorrowland, and the monorail. But, there is no way I would spend $160 per day to ride a train around. Cant you find a fair or carnival close to your home to take your kids?

Donna - posted on 05/15/2011

We loved Disney World and all three of my girls (now 20, 22, and 28) have been so many times since they were born so I speak from experience and pass some thoughts along for your consideration....
If you can afford to stay up on Disney, we would highly recommend that. With your kids so young, you will probably spend most of your time in Magic Kingdom - the closer you get, the less time you will spend bussing around either in a bus or your auto. Out of all the parks at Disney with kids of your age, Magic Kingdom is the one they will probably like the most. As they get older, you can venture out to Epcot Center and the other parks. We now have a grandson who is 3 1/2 and a new granddaughter due in the next couple weeks so we are living this life all over again!!

Another thing I would mention is to take the kids into the park early and then head back to your hotel about mid day for naps and then maybe a swim at the pool. If you go over the summer, the parks are open late so you could go back in for a couple hours but the nap will pay its way a thousand times over!!
Good luck and have a wonderful trip!

Saundra - posted on 05/15/2011

Hi i have twins that are 13 and since they were 1 month old they have been traveling with us.......I agree with you enjoy your time with them. Be prepared with your backpack of goodies......the park is great for not just the rides but the sights and sounds they will enjoy it and when its nap time find a great place foryou and your husband to eat while they nap....... I know the feeling of wanting them with you........it is ok. I agree on the soothing baths and calm evenings.....try to get a great resort so that you can enjoy their down times... Overall have fun and be flexible......Good luck to you can't wait to hear how wonderful your trip is........ One last note be prepared for any airplane issues .........I usually overpack for those type of issues food/change of cloths/ diapers..........under pack for you and your husband - [sorry for the run on sentence]

Joan - posted on 05/15/2011

From what I have observed at disneyland there were a lot of unhappy younger children like yours. Look at your motives, and consider a more child friendly vacation if you can.

Katie - posted on 05/15/2011

Going to Disney World is a family tradition for us; we go at least once a year. My daughter went for the first time at 6 months. She is now almost 6 and has been 9 times. We LOVE it! My advice would be to concentrate on the Magic Kingdom. It has myriad rides that little ones of all ages will love. I also am a HUGE fan of the character meals. Most of them you need to have advance reservations for, but it gives the kids a chance to see a good number of characters- inside in the air conditioning!- without waiting in really long lines. The characters come to your table and it is an awesome experience. I would also plan to get into the park first thing in the morning, if possible. Getting there when the gate opens usually gives you a good 45 minutes to ride the really popular rides--like Peter Pan, Pooh, Buzz Lightyear, or whatever else is your favorite. Lastly, take advantage of the Fast Passes. Even if the ride's line is short at 9 AM, go ahead and get a fast pass for it and build them up throughout the day. Then when it is super crowded in the afternoon you can have a stack of fast passes to use and walk onto all the crowded rides! It’s great! Have Fun!!!!

Gretchen - posted on 05/15/2011

The DIsney Parks do have toddler areas specifically for the younger children. They include separate areas for napping. It was actually designed for toddlers who older siblings are with another parent in the other area. But whether you go or not depends upon your child's comfort level with large crowds and sensory overload and your own comfort level with the thought of the trip.

We happen to have children that get overstimulated and will NOT take naps anywhere but in a crib. That means no stroller, car or parent's lap napping for our little ones. When my husband mentioned a Disney vacation, I said not until they are old enough to no longer need afternoon naps. But that is just us. Each child/family is different!

Jann - posted on 05/15/2011

Kids two and under are free to get into the parks.

Laurie - posted on 05/15/2011

well I have taken my family 7 times to disney ever since my youngest was 9 months old. Our first time we took everything at a slow pace, make sure to bring your own stroller instead of renting one, if you rent one of disney's stroller you have to return it at the gate, but if your little one is asleep it is easier to get to the buses with them asleep in the stroller. Also make sure to bring snacks and water for the little ones, they seem to snack more often then we do. The difference from when you went before without kids and with kids is that you will find that you will do more of the kids attractions, it's a totally different experience seeing the excitement in your kids eyes. My kids enjoyed Magic Kingdom the most when they were young, it has the most rides that they can go on with a parent. Also as for baby care centers, they are usually one located near the main entrance of each park, however every washroom has a baby change table. Make sure to take in the parades the kids love the parades, the only thing I found with the parades is that you need to get to your spot that you want early and mark your spots, and beware of those that come late and sneak in around you and slowly push their way in front of you, make sure you speak up, people can be really pushy, I would put the strollers right at the curb and then sit beside them or stand behind them as long as my kids got to see the parade I was happy. Make sure to use your fast pass at rides that it is available especially if the park is really busy that day. Also most rides will provide a baby swap, if you want to go on the ride with both kids but can't at the same time, go on with one and tell the person that you want to use the baby swap this means that your husband can stand with the other child until you are done and then the other child goes on with you without having to go back in line. This is good especially if you want to go on a roller coaster that the kids can't go on, you can go on and leave both kids with your significant other and then they can go on right after you. I have many more tips but can't write them all down, I'm sure that others will give you more tips as well. Best of Luck.

Amanda - posted on 05/15/2011

My husband and I just went to Disney with my two children, ages 3 1/2 and 1 1/2, in early March of this year and it was truly magical! The only regret is that we had reservations for 3 meals a day and we ended up forgoing the sit down lunches and getting quick meals instead so we could get the kids naps in. Just make sure the kids get naps in because it makes a huge difference by the end of the night.

Erin - posted on 05/15/2011

I would never take kids that young. A lot of money spent, that they will never remember the trip. Also, no fun for you or anyone else on the trip.

Cecilia - posted on 05/15/2011

I Simply wouldnt for kids that young. They really arent going to get much out of it. Unless you live close and can get a year pass and just do it tiny bits, I would wait until they are at least four or five. It really is a waste of time and money on kids that young.

Susan - posted on 05/15/2011

I'd wait until they are older. We just attempted to go with our 6yr old, 2 1/2 yr old and 1 yr old - and even had their uncle with us to help. It was really just too much! Washing bottles in the hotel sink, changing diapers anywhere you can and dealing with different nap times and we all know how the little ones get when they don't get their naps! I love Disney, but when the kids are that young and with it being sooo expensive, it just wasn't worth it. Legoland is much smaller and I think at that age a much better bet. Good luck with whatever you decide!

Laura - posted on 05/15/2011

I have a 13 month old and 2 1/2 year old girl, we have been to disney 5 times already. Dont expect things to go your way or even smoothly. Just go with it and have a good time. All parks have baby centers- use them! Make sure to bring lots of good snacks, they will be too excited for real meals, and if they ride in the stroller or r carried all day, they arent burning energy for an apetite. Unless u have a great double stroller, 2 singles will be better, especially if only one child needs to be removed from the excitement. Both my kids have enjoyed it, and we will go again when the weather cools. Lots of other tips and thoughts if u want, but mostly have fun!

Emily - posted on 05/15/2011

My husband and I were invited to go with friends when my son was 18 months old. We decided to try to be very relaxed about it. We went to the park one day stayed at the hotel the next, went to the park the third day, and then stayed at the hotel the fourth. We went in June, so we played at the pool on the days we stayed at the hotel. When at the park, we did not try to rush around riding rides ourselves. We stuck with the small children rides, went slowly, and let our son nap when he needed to nap. You should definitely take or rent a stroller. It was hot in June and many older children (and parents) were having meltdowns from having to walk alot in the heat.

Dawn - posted on 05/15/2011

there is a wonderful website www.allears.net and also at the bottom of the disney website is Panel of Moms. both will give you outstanding advise and ideas for traveling with young children. just remember it's a vacation, so take it slow, spend the time on things you will enjoy and have fun. one thing i do want to let you know about is "baby/child swap". it's available on all rides, let the first cast member you see, know you want to utilize it and they will direct you. basically, you all wait in line, the first parent gets to enjoy the ride while the other parent waits with the kids. at the end of the ride, the parents switch. it's great so you can enjoy all the rides, roller coasters included. Have a magical vacation :)

Lori - posted on 05/15/2011

I'm waiting until my little girl is at least 4-5yrs old. She is 22 months now and I have been told that they would enjoy it more when they can at least remember it. Also, she still has afternoon naps and gets cranky when she misses it. I think in the long run, we would all be happier if she is happier. Good Luck!

Carrie - posted on 05/15/2011

I have visited Disney World as a guest before and after kids, along with working there in Fall of 2005 for their college program internship. We took my son when he was 5months and 22months, both times we did things that we would not do if we didn't have a kid with us. For example, "It's A Small World" and Winnie the Pooh. Also, you can plan ahead so that you can go back to your room for a break in-between two parks that have extra magic hours. If you haven't already booked your trip, I am an Vacation Planner specializing in Disney Vacations, my facebook page is Vacation Planning with Carrie. I know you have been there, so you already know a lot but if you have any other questions feel free to ask! :-)

Tanya - posted on 05/15/2011

We took my dtr when I was 5 mos pregnant and she was 23 months (May 2010). We had a great time in Magic Kingdom. We also had our in-laws, which was a huge help! We own a time share in Orlando, which is why we went when she was that age. We spent several days just having fun at the pool and just one day at Magic Kingdom. I've been to DW 3 other times in my life, by the way. I always thought it was a waste to take very young kids, but it was fun to see her reaction and I felt like a kid too! :) I liked what some of the posters said about following and honoring your kids' needs and not trying to cram too much in one day. Just keep in mind, that some of the rides that you might think are harmless can seem quite scary to young kids. My daughter was freaking out at Winnie the Pooh (which I don't recommend at all because parts of it seem like the creator must have dropped acid) and also she was pretty scared at Peter Pan. She loved Dumbo (get there VERY early like others said) and especially the parades! Try to catch at least one of the parades if you can. A real highlight. Good luck and I know you said you don't want to hear people tell you not to go, so I won't do that, but I highly recommend taking someone else to help you if you can. I think your "fun-meter" will be higher if you have someone else to help with your little ones and to give you and your husband a break. :)

Vicky - posted on 05/15/2011

I took my husband to disney land in france for his 40th birthday - our children were aged 5 years and the other 8 months old - there was very little that the 8 month old was able to do due to height restriction or else he slept through a lot of it - he enjoyed the characters and parades and few very basic rides but tbh i spent most of the holiday hanging round whilst the other 2 queued and went on the rides - we do plan to go to florida disney but i have another baby who is now 5 months old i will wait till she is at least 3 so we can all enjoy the experience

Amanda - posted on 05/15/2011

They say you should wait until kids are 5 to go to Disney. The heat alone is hard. Waiting in long lines. Disney is overwhelming even for adults. Just getting into the park alone requires a shuttle bus then a ferry or air tram. I went the end of november the year before last with a 2 and 4 yr old and the weather was ideal. The best thing to do is get the fast track tickets when the lines are long. The ticket comes out for that particular ride and gives you a specific time to come back. When you return at that time there's no waiting. You go in the fast track line. Hand them ur ticket and they let u right in. Pick a few of the kids favorite characters and find out where they will be. Get there ten min early and buy the kids an icecream. Then u shod be in and out of that line. Also if you go to the back of the park first then work ur way to the front u will avoid lines. Everyone jumps in line for the first ride they see. Go to the back and the lines wont be as long in the morning. I hope you have a magical time!

BARBARA - posted on 05/15/2011

My best advice to you is to wait a couple o years at lerast. That way you all will have a much better time. I t is a wonderful thing that you want this experience with you children. But wait until they are older. The whole family will enjoy it so much more . Small children enjoy short outings much more than long ones. Long outings mess up their routine . About the time they adjust to no routine it is time to go home and they have to adjust to routine again. Why put them or yourself thur that.

Shawna - posted on 05/15/2011

It is amazing for them because they are experiencing something completely new. I recomend push them in a stroller or holding their hands at all times so no accidents happen or they get abducted God forbid.

Cassandra - posted on 05/15/2011

I took my 2 nephews and my son in 2006. We went in the fall and saw the Halloween stuff. My nephews were 5 and 3 and my son was 1. We had a leash for my son. RENT a stroller from Disney you get a discount for renting for more than one day. Also, tell EVERYONE that it is your kids first trip. You get buttons, sometimes behind the scenes stuff. I do mean everyone. All the cast members you see. Tell them. You get free stuff. Try to schedule naps and such for the kids to unwind for a bit. They can get a bit overwhelmed. Book every character dinner you can get your hands on. OH and that brings me to the dining option. Add it to your tickets. It is worth every penny. You save money when you do that. You get lunch and dinner and snacks for dirt cheap. If you book the character dinner and breakfasts you use your dinning option on those no extra out of pocket expenses for them. Which brings me to the next thing, Do the breakfast with Donald in Animal Kingdom, and Chef Mickey in The Contemporary resort. Also, the Winnie the Pooh dinner at the Crystal Palace in Magic Kingdom. Have dinner at the Sci Fi theatre also, awesome. NOt to mention your kids will be FREE!!!! They are under the age of 2 so all of these will be free for them. But by the dinning guide for you and your husband. You won't have to pay for a thing for the boys except for toys and such. Also, get the picture option. It's totaly worth it. e still have our DVD and it is awesome!!!! Ok, I think that is all the advice I could have. WE drove, but flyig is probably better. My sister always does the Auto Train but if you stay on Disney property unless youwant to travel outside of disney they have buses to all their hotels and all their parks free of charge. STAYON DISNEY PROPERTY. . . That is my advice. I hope that it helps!

Beth - posted on 05/15/2011

We just took our 2 and 4 year old boys and we had a GREAT time! My parents came too, and that helped a lot. But my best advice is to stick your at-home schedule as much as you can with meals/nap/bedtimes. We stayed on property, so we were easily able to go back to the hotel every afternoon for a nap (for the 2 yo) and nap or quiet time for the 4 yo (and us!). Also, don't stress over trying to see "everything." Just being there, soaking in the fun of the place is a great part of Disney - so don't drive yourselves crazy trying to get on every ride. If the kids have had enough, go back to your hotel or find a quiet spot for some rest a snack before meltdowns begin. We also brought a bag full of our own snacks (crackers, fruit, juice boxes) so the kids could snack in line or quickly at a bench while in the parks. Another tip is to take time in the parks for the kids just to run around and explore at the "free play" areas (playground-type spots). My boys got tired of sitting in the stroller, waiting in line, sitting in rides - they needed time to be free and run around, and Disney has lots of great spots for that - you just have to be sure to use them. It might feel like a "waste of time" when you could be going on rides, but for us it was a lifesaver to give the kids that unconfined time. Oh, and make LOTS of reservations for restaurants. Only a few penalize you for not showing up, so if you miss one no big deal (though it's courteous to call and cancel if you know you won't make it). But even after making several reservations, we got there and discovered we couldn't get into any table-service restaurants without advanced reservations. Though my 2 yo doesn't like long, sit-down meals, so most of meals were counterservice anyway.

Birthe - posted on 05/15/2011

We have been there with two boys, almost 5 and 20 months old. And it was great, there are so many attractions for little ones, also my little one loved it. We drove the adult-attractions like first mom than dad, it was ok, because we didn´t have to wait with the FAST-Tickets you can get at the bigger attractions. You don´t need your parents ( in law) but it will be a little bit better if you want to drive together with your husband. We will be there summer 2012, then with 3 kids (3,6 and 9).

Liz - posted on 05/15/2011

Ok, so I know I am being long winded but I thought of more! If you have your own double stroller, I would take it and not rent one from the parks (the ones at the parks are hard plastic and are not padded), the kids will need it and its great for carrying stuff with you! Also, I had a hip carrier that I wore my daughter in and she would nurse, fall asleep, and stay sound asleep in the carrier while my hubby and son got some more rides in! :) I highly recommmend that you go to at least one dining with characters meal. Make the reservation early online because they fill up fast. This way the kids can have more exposure to the characters without waiting in long lines! My kids LOVED meeting the Winnie the Pooh characters at the Crystal Palace in Magic Kingdom, and Mickey, Donald and the gang at the Tusker House in Animal Kingdom. Another top place is Cafe Mickey which is at one of the Disney hotels. Have a great time!

Stacey - posted on 05/15/2011

We took my son when he was 13 months old and again at 19 months. He had a blast at 19 months. I recommend staying on property so you can use disney transport. I would also look into renting the vacation club villas. You can get a 1 bedroom with kitchen and it is great with kids. You can get these thru Disney or search web for people wiling to gift the points to you to use. Disney says it has to be a gift, but you will actually buy from a Dvc member at a greatly reduced rate and use paypal when you do the transaction. Talk to the person o. The phone too, not just thru email.
Go to the parks in the am and swim in the afternoon. If you have a smart phone there are different apps you can get that will tell you which park is predicted to be the most and least crowded. I did our itinerary 2 months before going and amazingly the predictions were correct when we went. You can also view them while you are at the park and it will tell you how wait times are.
If flying, use happy limo for transport to hotel. They will do a free 15 min stop at grocery store on the way and you can get all essentials and food for trip. Especially good if you have a villa sinceyou have a kitchen. And they will provide car seats so you don't have to bring them. It's 150 round trip with 1 car seat last time we did it.
Best stroller to use is double city mini baby jogger. You can rent from various places down there or buy one on eBay like I did. It folds up so quick for the buses and such and has great sun canopy coverage. So much more info but hope that helps

Liz - posted on 05/15/2011

So sorry that you have gotten so many negative responses! Disney is a magical place at any age! We went last spring when my son was 3 1/2 and my daughter was only 15 months and they both LOVED it! There is no reason that you can't have an absolutely wonderful and memorable vacation with your kiddos! :) I say the key is PLANNING! I did TONS of research by reading many different disney vacation site and blogs. I mapped out the best activities for my kids and then even researched what things were the least busy at certain times of day! It really helped to know to get in line for Dumbo first thing, because it only gets more busy for example! Also, read up about how to use Fast Passes and plan on doing that! I highly recommend taking a break for naps halfway through the day. If your kiddos get up early, hit the parks first thing in the morning and then when it gets really busy early afternoon go back to where you are staying to relax, nap, play at the pool, etc. Then go back at dinner time. If you are going for several days, plan to have a day off in the middle of your time there to relax, swim, maybe explore downtown disney, etc. The parks are wonderful about letting you bring in snacks and drinks, so bring plenty of fun snacks for the kids. I would also find some small toys, even bubbles, to bring out at certain times that the kids are getting restless in line. Most of all, even though you have planned and prepared, just go with the flow, know you won't see everything, and just be ready to roll with the punches and be flexible! You guys will have a wonderful time! Also, I just notices you said you are going in January, which is when the parks are the least busy, so that is perfect with little kids!

Sharon - posted on 05/15/2011

I think you're mad! Why on earth would you want to spend all that money on a trip that will stress you out with two small children that won't remember a thing!?!??! Why do you have to go now - wait a few years that I'm sure you'll all get more out of it. A 9 hour flight with two kids is bad enough, but two kids under 3? No way!

Linda - posted on 05/15/2011

I would go - We are taking my son next year and he will only be 18 months old. The reason for going is that I also have a 7yr old and there is no way I'm putting holidays on hold until my little one reaches 3 or 4.

Best advice I can give which is what I will be doing is make sure you have plenty of breaks. We normally hit the parks at opening time then after a couple of hours head back to our villa till late afternoon. My LO will get a rest and a peaceful lunch before heading back to the park for more fun mid-late afternoon. Try and stick to your childrens routine as much as possible but basically have FUN!!!

Karen - posted on 05/15/2011

Wait 5 years! taking children this young is a nightmare for all of you. We took 4 children ages 7 to infant. They're grown now and only the oldest remembers anything. Every night we were totally exhausted and Epcot was totally frustrating since strollers weren't allowed in most of the buildings. We had to carry the kids...it was awful. Wait until they're older and you can all enjoy it! They won't even remember this and you'll wear yourselves out hauling everything you need over the very large spaces needed for Disney...

Lukithia - posted on 05/15/2011

Ashley, it does depend on the child and how they adapt to a change in routine. I have taken my kids on all kinds ofb trips evn when they were very little. It was normally with extra adults like my mom. I have had a blast every time. You just see the sights that work for you all. Its a small world was a good family ride and so is the submarine. They will enjoy the parade and with a break for naps during the day the fieworks at the end is good if they don't have a sensitivity to loud noise. My son was about 2 when we took him to seaworld and kinda got seperated from the group cuz there were so many of us that we thought he was with someone else. So keep them in the stroller strapped unless you have them in your arms. If they are the type that want to walk get a back pack harness with the long strap. Have a blast and don't let anyone detour your plans. Some are just stuck on schedules and routines with their kids. My kids love to look at the pictures of the trips they don't remember and hear the stories. My son has heard the story so much he thinks he remembers us losing him.

Brooke - posted on 05/15/2011

I have a 2 yr old and a baby on the way. My husband
& I have been to Disney as well as other amusement parks.
We would not concider taking our children that young at all. They won't even remember it, nevertheless the
expense alone. We are saving up for a trip in 8 years it will be a lot more fun then!

Kelly - posted on 05/15/2011

Hi Ashley!
You will have your hands full for sure! The most important advice I can give is to take it easy. You and your husband both know how much there is to do, but fortunately your boys don't. Naps, naps, naps. Break up the day. Hit a park in the am, lunch, nap and maybe hotel pool (if not too cold) in the afternoon. Don't try to do too much - you guys will probably be as exhausted as your sons. Take small snacks into the park - cheerios, fruit snacks, whatever eases their snack cravings and helps avoid meltdown.. Do rent one of their 2-child strollers - it is ALOT of walking. If your hotel has concierge level, go for it. So worth it! Lastly, be ready in case they are afraid of the characters. They might not be. My son at 2 1/2 was terrified and it took a week for him to warm up just to Minnie. In the event they're not afraid, I do recommend at least one character meal. The breakfast in Animal Kingdom is good, and dinner at Mickey's is fun too. Your two yr old is the perfect age to enjoy repeated rides on the park train and the monorail. Use your photopass card when you can - it's nice to have pictures of the whole family all ready upon your return. Have fun!!!

Rachel - posted on 05/15/2011

My son is 2 and we just went to Disney work in Jan. and he was afraid of anyone dressed up in costume even Mickey mouse and he loves Mickey Mouse. My daughter is 9 and we started going to Disney when she was about 1, she didn't start liking it until she was about 3 or 4 years old. I think its better when they are about 4 or 5, they understand more and they love getting pics taken and autographs. I won't be going back till he's a little older too much money to spend for them to be scared while there. lol.

Bobbie - posted on 05/15/2011

I first took my 3 year old right after she turned 2. She LOVED it, and it was no problem. We conveniently stayed in the Contemporary Resort so we could just take the monorail back for her daily nap. However, even when we recently went and did not stay in a hotel, she slept in her stroller. Disney's Fantasy Land (behind the castle) does not have a height requirement, so they can do everything there. Otherwise, if my husband and I want to ride something, we just get a fast pass and take turns. :-) BUT we love going so much, we are now season pass holders.

Kelley - posted on 05/15/2011

don't rent a stroller there. they ar hard and the kids can't nap easily in them. do take one that collapes as slim as possible. they now have doors on shuttle and it is hard to get bigger one's in. The young kids area is underconstruction so you are lossing some of the rides and character viewing areas. Also the playgrounds are closed in that area. Otherwise just plan on doing a small part. pick attractions by the kids temperment at the time you are there.. Maybe a movie or show when they need to rest, and rides when they need to move around. At the Magic kingdom Start out going to the left, Adventureland, then move toward tomorrowland. brings you closer to the exit as you are ready to leave.. Oh and I always pick sitdown restaurants. It gives you an the kids a sensory break.

Selina - posted on 05/15/2011

Ashley - we live near Disney World & we go a lot, our daughter is 2 1/2 & she has been numerous times to all the parks. One thing I want to let you know is all the parks have a baby center which is really nice, you can change the boys, feed them, breastfeed privately if you are doing so & just rest if needed. They also sell the basics in case you run out of something during the day in the park. Just check out the maps. Our daughter loves to go & even though she won't remember these early trips, we have pics like you mentioned & it is a great time!! The Magic Kingdom is changing part of it, so the Toon Town is not there, but there are still several things your boys can do & ride. If you are planning on going to Animal Kingdom, make sure you hit the safari ride as early as you can, the animals are usually more active at that time. :) You & your family are going to have a great time!

Alexandra - posted on 05/15/2011

I've taken my two kids before and I believe that ages one and two are too young. I would spare yourself the stress and expense til they're five and six; they will remember the trip in later years and will be able to participate in more attractions. Most rides are based on a height restriction so it would be disappointing to all to miss anything. If you're determined to have a Disney holiday, perhaps a Disney cruise would be more suited to your family. I took my kids on one when my son was almost three and all of us loved it.