Philosophical Monday: When to Disney?
Betty's already practicing for the roller coaster!
So CH and I have been low-grade arguing about this since before Betty was born. Basically I hate Disneyland — it’s too clean and sterile and 50s. Whatever. But CH feels exactly the opposite.
Before Betty was born this wasn’t an issue, b/c it didn’t seem cruel for me to not go to Disneyland with CH, who is an adult. But even I would classify myself as a bit Cruella if I refused to take Betty and her hypothetical sibling to this place of wonder (for people other than me), considering that we live so close.
Here’s the problem: I think we should go when Betty is maybe eight or nine — at an age where she will truly, truly appreciate going to Disneyland. CH feels we should take her when she’s like two. So far, he’s successfully negotiated me down to six, pointing out that many of Betty’s same-aged, local peers have already been to Disneyland, in some cases, more than once.
So I decided to put this question to our readers. When do you think is the best time to take your kid to Disneyland if you live close by? Is sooner really better than later? And if so, why? Let me know you’re opins in the comments.
One of my LA friends used to bring her daughter at least once a month starting before age 2. There are plenty of rides only for little ones in Toontown, and many of the real rides like teacups, Pirates, and Dumbo allow any age.
The downside for me is the exposure to the characters if that's something you're trying to avoid. My friend's daughter was a huge Disney Princess fan, and meeting the princesses in person was a highlight of each visit. Personally I'm trying to keep characters out of the house, at least until my children request them. My daughter will not be princess-obsessed if I have anything to say about it — which I am sure I do not.
Yeah, once a month would kill me. And I have the exact same reservations about consumerism and princess culture. But like you, I don't know how much say I have in that.
One of my LA friends used to bring her daughter at least once a month starting before age 2. There are plenty of rides only for little ones in Toontown, and many of the real rides like teacups, Pirates, and Dumbo allow any age.
The downside for me is the exposure to the characters if that's something you're trying to avoid. My friend's daughter was a huge Disney Princess fan, and meeting the princesses in person was a highlight of each visit. Personally I'm trying to keep characters out of the house, at least until my children request them. My daughter will not be princess-obsessed if I have anything to say about it — which I am sure I do not.
Yeah, once a month would kill me. And I have the exact same reservations about consumerism and princess culture. But like you, I don't know how much say I have in that.
How about if I take her Ernessa when I come to visit. You know that her cousins are dying to take her to Disneyland.
Hahaha! I'll take you up on that. But you'd have to visit more than once a year to satisfy the CH's quota for how often to take Betty to Disney land — which is twice a year.
How about if I take her Ernessa when I come to visit. You know that her cousins are dying to take her to Disneyland.
Hahaha! I'll take you up on that. But you'd have to visit more than once a year to satisfy the CH's quota for how often to take Betty to Disney land — which is twice a year.
We are taking Annabelle in May. She will be six months. But I get in for free and I love it, so I don't feel the need to delay. You are both welcome to come with us and get in for free as well (if that softens the blow of having to go at all)!
You know you can just hang out at the wine bar in California Adventure all day while Christian takes Betty around, right?
Yeah, we get in for free, too, which has come up as a point of contention more than once. I've also been offered the wine bar at California Adventure, but I don't drink alone, so….
We are taking Annabelle in May. She will be six months. But I get in for free and I love it, so I don't feel the need to delay. You are both welcome to come with us and get in for free as well (if that softens the blow of having to go at all)!
You know you can just hang out at the wine bar in California Adventure all day while Christian takes Betty around, right?
Yeah, we get in for free, too, which has come up as a point of contention more than once. I've also been offered the wine bar at California Adventure, but I don't drink alone, so….
I want to take her when she is 2 I think at that age she will start to appreciate it.
How can she appreciate it, she'd be 2!
She can appreciate it even if she doesn't remember it.
Appreciation is remembering. That's like the definition of it.
In the end I want to go for me as much as her. She wont remember it but I will and it already feels like she is growing up so fast. I want to remember her as a happy little baby and if taking her to Disneyland helps me with that. I'm okay with it.
You guys are soo cute. Kiss Betty on the cheek for me.
I want to take her when she is 2 I think at that age she will start to appreciate it.
How can she appreciate it, she'd be 2!
She can appreciate it even if she doesn't remember it.
Appreciation is remembering. That's like the definition of it.
In the end I want to go for me as much as her. She wont remember it but I will and it already feels like she is growing up so fast. I want to remember her as a happy little baby and if taking her to Disneyland helps me with that. I'm okay with it.
You guys are soo cute. Kiss Betty on the cheek for me.
I have memories of my family going to Disneyland on at least a yearly basis dating back to early childhood. We lived in San Jose but my grandparents lived in LA. So I think the Disneyland trip would be linked together with a grandparents visit. Although I can't remember enjoying the park at age 2, I'm pretty sure I can remember being obsessed with the Dumbo ride at 5 years old or so.
Okay, even I liked the Dumbo ride … and the teacups — but that was about it.
I have memories of my family going to Disneyland on at least a yearly basis dating back to early childhood. We lived in San Jose but my grandparents lived in LA. So I think the Disneyland trip would be linked together with a grandparents visit. Although I can't remember enjoying the park at age 2, I'm pretty sure I can remember being obsessed with the Dumbo ride at 5 years old or so.
Okay, even I liked the Dumbo ride … and the teacups — but that was about it.
My parents took me to Disney World when I was two and I barely remember it. I would wait until she is at least 5.
My parents took me to Disney World when I was two and I barely remember it. I would wait until she is at least 5.
I'm on your side ETC. I didn't go to Disneyworld until I was 15, and many many times after that, and I always thought it was a total waste to drag young children through there. Because it's exhausting. Because they are afraid of the giant characters. Because they won't remember it anyway. Because they are annoying to the other patrons. Because it costs a fortune. I haven't read the other comments, but I think everyone in a family should be able to enjoy the parks independently on their own level. But as a new step-mom, there's probably a lot more to it that I don't yet know about.
THANK YOU, Gudrun. Where is Disney Europe, though? You might end up getting dragged along. I actually kind of want you to get dragged along, b/c I'm dying to know how it differs.
I'm on your side ETC. I didn't go to Disneyworld until I was 15, and many many times after that, and I always thought it was a total waste to drag young children through there. Because it's exhausting. Because they are afraid of the giant characters. Because they won't remember it anyway. Because they are annoying to the other patrons. Because it costs a fortune. I haven't read the other comments, but I think everyone in a family should be able to enjoy the parks independently on their own level. But as a new step-mom, there's probably a lot more to it that I don't yet know about.
THANK YOU, Gudrun. Where is Disney Europe, though? You might end up getting dragged along. I actually kind of want you to get dragged along, b/c I'm dying to know how it differs.
According to stories I have heard (from friends with kids) it seems the prime age of appreciation is 2-3. My friend's son cried tears of joy during the parade when he saw Lightening McQueen and proceeded to meltdown when he wouldn't "come back". Her daughter bum rushed Cinderella and my friend said Cinderella saw her coming and had to brace herself for the impact. I also saw pictures of a FB friend's daughter with Princess Tiana and it was so beautiful to see a little black girl with a black princess–Hell that made ME want to go to Disneyland! And girl your inner princess has to want to gave dinner with in the castle with all of the princesses at least once.
Princess Tiana is the only reason I would consider going to Disneyland. Though, I've been thinking about this all day, and I have to say that there are quite a few Disney princesses I don't mind — mainly b/c they're not really princesses. Belle (the book nerd), Mulan (the clever nerd), and Tiana (the food nerd). I really wouldn't mind if Betty tried to emulate any of them.
I saw my 4 year old niece a few weeks ago and I asked her which one of the Disney princesses was her favorite (Yes I was totally fishing to see how much work on her moral development I would need to do as a god mother). She said Belle. I was SOOOOOOO proud. I do believe I did a fist pump in addition to the hug I gave her. Lol. I am so glad she didn't say Snow White or Cinderella who have no ambition other than to marry some dude and away from their abusive step mothers. NyAisha also looks kinda like Belle so I could see how she was visually attracted that that character.
I think Titana is a food and entrepreneur nerd.
Yes, though I plan to influence Betty's answer to this question myself, I do wonder if girls her age will come to that conclusion on their own. After all, Belle, Mulan, and T do so much stuff and go on so many adventures. I can't see how a girl could possibly find them less interesting than Cinderella or (shudder) Sleeping Beauty.
ahahah. girl my sister found ways to identify herself with cinderella. when she was asked to pick up her toys she said "crystal do this crystal do that. poooooooor crystal" maybe if she had belle, mulan or tiana she might have had a different outlook on life.
According to stories I have heard (from friends with kids) it seems the prime age of appreciation is 2-3. My friend's son cried tears of joy during the parade when he saw Lightening McQueen and proceeded to meltdown when he wouldn't "come back". Her daughter bum rushed Cinderella and my friend said Cinderella saw her coming and had to brace herself for the impact. I also saw pictures of a FB friend's daughter with Princess Tiana and it was so beautiful to see a little black girl with a black princess–Hell that made ME want to go to Disneyland! And girl your inner princess has to want to gave dinner with in the castle with all of the princesses at least once.
Princess Tiana is the only reason I would consider going to Disneyland. Though, I've been thinking about this all day, and I have to say that there are quite a few Disney princesses I don't mind — mainly b/c they're not really princesses. Belle (the book nerd), Mulan (the clever nerd), and Tiana (the food nerd). I really wouldn't mind if Betty tried to emulate any of them.
I saw my 4 year old niece a few weeks ago and I asked her which one of the Disney princesses was her favorite (Yes I was totally fishing to see how much work on her moral development I would need to do as a god mother). She said Belle. I was SOOOOOOO proud. I do believe I did a fist pump in addition to the hug I gave her. Lol. I am so glad she didn't say Snow White or Cinderella who have no ambition other than to marry some dude and away from their abusive step mothers. NyAisha also looks kinda like Belle so I could see how she was visually attracted that that character.
I think Titana is a food and entrepreneur nerd.
Yes, though I plan to influence Betty's answer to this question myself, I do wonder if girls her age will come to that conclusion on their own. After all, Belle, Mulan, and T do so much stuff and go on so many adventures. I can't see how a girl could possibly find them less interesting than Cinderella or (shudder) Sleeping Beauty.
ahahah. girl my sister found ways to identify herself with cinderella. when she was asked to pick up her toys she said "crystal do this crystal do that. poooooooor crystal" maybe if she had belle, mulan or tiana she might have had a different outlook on life.
Dan & I are totally into Disney (but not in the obsessive, freaky way). We had annual passes to Disneyland long before SP was born. We couldn't wait to take him and have been taking him once a month since he was 6 months (SP's first trip was actually at about 3 months but it was because we had family in town going, he totally did not get anything out of it at that age).
The best reason to take them very young (around 1 or 2) is because they BELIEVE. They believe that Mickey Mouse is real. They believe that they are really riding a flying elephant. They believe that they become giants in the Ants village. And the parades, holy moly do they love the parades! Not only do they believe but they relish in it, the look of wonder on SP's face everytime we go and he discovers something new is priceless.
I love the fact that it's so clean (and safe). I feel fine letting SP run loose ahead of us knowing he won't pick up any trash on the street :) There are helpful people at every turn, there's even a baby care station that sells diapers, baby food, etc plus has private areas to nurse, a bunch of high chairs, an accessible microwave to heat up food you bring from home and a huge room with changing tables (and they have mini-toilets for the little ones, so cute).
The way to do Disneyland with little ones if you live in SoCal is with the annual pass (although it seems the cost is not the deterrent in your case) because you can go for only a couple rides and then call it a day. A few hours is all that they can tolerate really, we like to do a few rides and then eat (we love to eat at Disneyland!) – not necessarily in that order. We usually don't do more than 2-3 hours at a time so if you are paying full price everytime, it's not worth it.
SP doesn't watch any Disney cartoons and doesn't have a desire to (he still only watches Classical Baby and Yo Gabba Gabba). His only exposure to the characters is at the park. It doesn't matter, even though he's not "into it" watching the characters on TV, he's totally into it at the park when he sees one of them – it's so exciting for him when they are "alive."
You'll want to be there for Betty's first Disneyland experience but we'd love to take her with us after that (and Christian too!) if you're not into it…but I think watching Betty experience the wonder of it all will make you a convert, it will be reason that you'll actually WANT to go :)
Yeah, what she said.
I love that you co-signed, Dan.
Wow, Nicole. A few points:1. Who are the freaks. B/c you, my friend, Sallie, and my friend, Delia all claim not to be obsessive, but *you have season passes.* Exactly what does one have to do to get labeled an obsessive? is it just b/c you didn't get married there or anything?2. I'm so annoyed, b/c you've basically sold me on going the first time and I had negotiated not going until Betty was 6. But if Betty does enjoy it, I really don't want to miss her enjoying it, so grumble, grumble, I guess I'll go at whatever age we finally agree on. Though, it's doubtful that CH will ever get me all the way down to 2.3. No one's mentioned the convenience factor.4. I love that you only stay 2-3 hours. I can do 2-3 hours. It's the whole day excursion that would send me straight to the California Adventure wine bar. But it's hard to convince out-of-town guests to only go for such a short time…
We have season passes to save money. It would cost too much to pay every time we go since we only usually go for 2 to 3 hours at a time. It's nice to go at our leisure (not on visiting family time) and stay for as long or little as we want.
We did an all-day adventure at Disneyland in February when Dan's brother's family was in town and although it was fun, both SP and I got sick the next day with colds. If you are going to do an all-dayer w/Betty then I suggest getting a room at one of the Disney hotels so she can go back to the room to nap (the Grand Californian is great because there is entrance directly into the California Adventure park).
You will see obsessive when you go…there are people in head to toe Disney garb, wearing their annual passes around their necks with lanyards covered in collectible pins :)
Dan & I are totally into Disney (but not in the obsessive, freaky way). We had annual passes to Disneyland long before SP was born. We couldn't wait to take him and have been taking him once a month since he was 6 months (SP's first trip was actually at about 3 months but it was because we had family in town going, he totally did not get anything out of it at that age).
The best reason to take them very young (around 1 or 2) is because they BELIEVE. They believe that Mickey Mouse is real. They believe that they are really riding a flying elephant. They believe that they become giants in the Ants village. And the parades, holy moly do they love the parades! Not only do they believe but they relish in it, the look of wonder on SP's face everytime we go and he discovers something new is priceless.
I love the fact that it's so clean (and safe). I feel fine letting SP run loose ahead of us knowing he won't pick up any trash on the street :) There are helpful people at every turn, there's even a baby care station that sells diapers, baby food, etc plus has private areas to nurse, a bunch of high chairs, an accessible microwave to heat up food you bring from home and a huge room with changing tables (and they have mini-toilets for the little ones, so cute).
The way to do Disneyland with little ones if you live in SoCal is with the annual pass (although it seems the cost is not the deterrent in your case) because you can go for only a couple rides and then call it a day. A few hours is all that they can tolerate really, we like to do a few rides and then eat (we love to eat at Disneyland!) – not necessarily in that order. We usually don't do more than 2-3 hours at a time so if you are paying full price everytime, it's not worth it.
SP doesn't watch any Disney cartoons and doesn't have a desire to (he still only watches Classical Baby and Yo Gabba Gabba). His only exposure to the characters is at the park. It doesn't matter, even though he's not "into it" watching the characters on TV, he's totally into it at the park when he sees one of them – it's so exciting for him when they are "alive."
You'll want to be there for Betty's first Disneyland experience but we'd love to take her with us after that (and Christian too!) if you're not into it…but I think watching Betty experience the wonder of it all will make you a convert, it will be reason that you'll actually WANT to go :)
Yeah, what she said.
I love that you co-signed, Dan.
Wow, Nicole. A few points:
1. Who are the freaks. B/c you, my friend, Sallie, and my friend, Delia all claim not to be obsessive, but *you have season passes.* Exactly what does one have to do to get labeled an obsessive? is it just b/c you didn't get married there or anything?
2. I'm so annoyed, b/c you've basically sold me on going the first time and I had negotiated not going until Betty was 6. But if Betty does enjoy it, I really don't want to miss her enjoying it, so grumble, grumble, I guess I'll go at whatever age we finally agree on. Though, it's doubtful that CH will ever get me all the way down to 2.
3. No one's mentioned the convenience factor.
4. I love that you only stay 2-3 hours. I can do 2-3 hours. It's the whole day excursion that would send me straight to the California Adventure wine bar. But it's hard to convince out-of-town guests to only go for such a short time…
We have season passes to save money. It would cost too much to pay every time we go since we only usually go for 2 to 3 hours at a time. It's nice to go at our leisure (not on visiting family time) and stay for as long or little as we want.
We did an all-day adventure at Disneyland in February when Dan's brother's family was in town and although it was fun, both SP and I got sick the next day with colds. If you are going to do an all-dayer w/Betty then I suggest getting a room at one of the Disney hotels so she can go back to the room to nap (the Grand Californian is great because there is entrance directly into the California Adventure park).
You will see obsessive when you go…there are people in head to toe Disney garb, wearing their annual passes around their necks with lanyards covered in collectible pins :)
As a child, I instituted a ban on Disneyland (probably to the relief of my parents 'cause there were four of us and we lived in San Francisco.) My ban can from knowledge I got from a classmate who had done research on Roy Disney and discovered he was a klansman– now this was before the Internet and rampart rumors so I was inclined to believe his story based on racist Disney cartoon I had watched as a youngster. From that day forward, I hated Disneyland/DisneyWorld and all that it represented and vowed that I'd never go. I don't have children but if I am blessed to have them I won't ever take them to Disneyland. That said, I respect the will of hubbys and fathers and if my future hubby wanted to take the kids to a place that was founded by a racist, I wouldn't object. And perhaps that head handedness and political/social bent I had took the wonder out of childhood. So let CJ take Betty to Disneyland whenever– though I think she should be at least able to say "Take me to Disneyland" (or less princess like) May I go to Disneyland? before you take her. :)
Okay, how much do I love that you were also a political child. This amuses me to no end. I remember seeing a SNL skit about Disney being a Nazi or something and making a similar proclamation. But then Little Mermaid came out and I really, really, really want to see it. So…I wasn't as cool as you. I love the idea of waiting until Betty asks. But I don't think she'll know to ask soon enough for CH, considering that she won't be watching TV w/ commercials by the time she's old enough to make (very polite I'm sure) requests.
As a child, I instituted a ban on Disneyland (probably to the relief of my parents 'cause there were four of us and we lived in San Francisco.) My ban can from knowledge I got from a classmate who had done research on Roy Disney and discovered he was a klansman– now this was before the Internet and rampart rumors so I was inclined to believe his story based on racist Disney cartoon I had watched as a youngster. From that day forward, I hated Disneyland/DisneyWorld and all that it represented and vowed that I'd never go. I don't have children but if I am blessed to have them I won't ever take them to Disneyland. That said, I respect the will of hubbys and fathers and if my future hubby wanted to take the kids to a place that was founded by a racist, I wouldn't object. And perhaps that head handedness and political/social bent I had took the wonder out of childhood. So let CJ take Betty to Disneyland whenever– though I think she should be at least able to say "Take me to Disneyland" (or less princess like) May I go to Disneyland? before you take her. :)
Okay, how much do I love that you were also a political child. This amuses me to no end. I remember seeing a SNL skit about Disney being a Nazi or something and making a similar proclamation. But then Little Mermaid came out and I really, really, really want to see it. So…
I wasn't as cool as you. I love the idea of waiting until Betty asks. But I don't think she'll know to ask soon enough for CH, considering that she won't be watching TV w/ commercials by the time she's old enough to make (very polite I'm sure) requests.
Ernessa–
I'm with you. Hate Disneyland for many of the same reasons, though I also tack on the fact that beneath the cheerful 50s exterior, there's a totalitarian cheeriness regime that enforces joy with an iron fist. The whole thing is incredibly creepy.
But since you've committed to going, I'll just say this: somewhere out in the world is a picture of a 3 year old Michael Kass screaming in terror, snot dribbling from his traumatized nose as a gigantic duck and a mouse wearing pants wave happily at the camera. 6 is probably an OK age. Good luck!
Yeah, those characters would have FREAKED me out. I wasn't a huge fan of clowns or Santa Claus when I was a kid either. But Betty would probably love it. Also, I would like to believe that she would grow up to think it's creepy like we do. But so many really cool people I know love it. I can't be sure. Have you been as an adult?
The younger you start exposing them to the characters, the easier it will be. Six is way too old, I was terrified at age 6 of any characters (including Santa).
I'm tellin' ya Ernessa, I'd go at 2 or even earlier if possible…SP loves the characters at Disneyland but his 2 year old cousin wasn't very open to them when we went for her 2nd bday in February. I think the fact that he started going when he was a baby has made a big difference with stuff like that, including Santa.
And, on the opposite end of thought on this, I really appreciate that they enforce cheeriness. It's the one place we go where I know we'll get excellent customer service and I know that everyone will be nice to my kid. I can't imagine not enforcing the staff be cheerful at Disneyland…can you imagine paying $80 and then having a staff member ruin your kid's fantasy time with their foul attitude?
Hahaha! CH got me down to 4 and is working hard on 3, thanks to you…Ernessa T. CarterAuthor, Blogger, Totally Fierce Nerd<a href="http://32candles.com/http://32candles.com/<br /><a href="http://fierceandnerdy.com/http://fierceandnerdy.com/<br />etc@fierceandnerdy.comLooking for something to read on the beach this summer? Pre-order my book 32 CANDLES at Amazon.com
Ernessa–
I'm with you. Hate Disneyland for many of the same reasons, though I also tack on the fact that beneath the cheerful 50s exterior, there's a totalitarian cheeriness regime that enforces joy with an iron fist. The whole thing is incredibly creepy.
But since you've committed to going, I'll just say this: somewhere out in the world is a picture of a 3 year old Michael Kass screaming in terror, snot dribbling from his traumatized nose as a gigantic duck and a mouse wearing pants wave happily at the camera. 6 is probably an OK age. Good luck!
Yeah, those characters would have FREAKED me out. I wasn't a huge fan of clowns or Santa Claus when I was a kid either. But Betty would probably love it. Also, I would like to believe that she would grow up to think it's creepy like we do. But so many really cool people I know love it. I can't be sure. Have you been as an adult?
The younger you start exposing them to the characters, the easier it will be. Six is way too old, I was terrified at age 6 of any characters (including Santa).
I'm tellin' ya Ernessa, I'd go at 2 or even earlier if possible…SP loves the characters at Disneyland but his 2 year old cousin wasn't very open to them when we went for her 2nd bday in February. I think the fact that he started going when he was a baby has made a big difference with stuff like that, including Santa.
And, on the opposite end of thought on this, I really appreciate that they enforce cheeriness. It's the one place we go where I know we'll get excellent customer service and I know that everyone will be nice to my kid. I can't imagine not enforcing the staff be cheerful at Disneyland…can you imagine paying $80 and then having a staff member ruin your kid's fantasy time with their foul attitude?
Hahaha! CH got me down to 4 and is working hard on 3, thanks to you…
Ernessa T. Carter
Author, Blogger, Totally Fierce Nerd
http://32candles.com/
http://fierceandnerdy.com/
etc@fierceandnerdy.com
Looking for something to read on the beach this summer? Pre-order my book 32 CANDLES at Amazon.com
Y'know, I've had conversations with my BF's brother about taking his twins to Ireland for family things. He doesn't want to until they're old enough to really appreciate and remember it (he's thinking 7 or 8), and I think that while you don't remember things at 2 or 4, you learn the stories of those times and it becomes your personal narrative. If the family is telling stories of being together and you're not a part of that story, you're not a part of that family narrative and it distances you from that family, I think. I don't want his girls to be left out of the story of my BF's family (they live near their other grandparents so are fully a part of that family story).
We lived in San Diego until I was 5, and when we moved, one of the things I missed most was Disneyland. Can't tell you how many times I asked if we could go once we'd moved, only to be told it was too far away. We'd been countless times, and while I may not remember myself there too well (I do remember that you had to have tickets for each ride and that I LOVED the teacups) or each individual trip, I do remember all the stories of being there — when my cousins came to visit and other times. I loved Disneyland.
I think 2 is probably a good age to start, if you want to take her — plenty to do and see for that age — but if you personally don't want to go, maybe let her go with Daddy and a friend.
The other thing I missed a lot when we moved was tamales for lunch. You just couldn't get them in San Francisco or Virginia back then.
I loved Disneyland and still do. I will happily take Betty for you!
I love the observation about 'family narrative' — as a military brat, we were always away from family. There are lots of stories of trips that I don't remember, but I've been told them so many times it's as if I remember. I definitely want that same sense of narrative for my daughter.
My whole thing on take kids anywhere is that it's more for you than it is for them. So if I had a chance to go to Ireland, I would definitely drag Betty along, even if she doesn't remember it — just in case your BF's brother was looking for further opinions on the subject.And oh man, do I agree about the family narrative. Obviously, I grew up to be a writer, but I made my mom tell and retell every single story she could remember from before I started having memories of my own.
Y'know, I've had conversations with my BF's brother about taking his twins to Ireland for family things. He doesn't want to until they're old enough to really appreciate and remember it (he's thinking 7 or 8), and I think that while you don't remember things at 2 or 4, you learn the stories of those times and it becomes your personal narrative. If the family is telling stories of being together and you're not a part of that story, you're not a part of that family narrative and it distances you from that family, I think. I don't want his girls to be left out of the story of my BF's family (they live near their other grandparents so are fully a part of that family story).
We lived in San Diego until I was 5, and when we moved, one of the things I missed most was Disneyland. Can't tell you how many times I asked if we could go once we'd moved, only to be told it was too far away. We'd been countless times, and while I may not remember myself there too well (I do remember that you had to have tickets for each ride and that I LOVED the teacups) or each individual trip, I do remember all the stories of being there — when my cousins came to visit and other times. I loved Disneyland.
I think 2 is probably a good age to start, if you want to take her — plenty to do and see for that age — but if you personally don't want to go, maybe let her go with Daddy and a friend.
The other thing I missed a lot when we moved was tamales for lunch. You just couldn't get them in San Francisco or Virginia back then.
I loved Disneyland and still do. I will happily take Betty for you!
I love the observation about 'family narrative' — as a military brat, we were always away from family. There are lots of stories of trips that I don't remember, but I've been told them so many times it's as if I remember. I definitely want that same sense of narrative for my daughter.
My whole thing on take kids anywhere is that it's more for you than it is for them. So if I had a chance to go to Ireland, I would definitely drag Betty along, even if she doesn't remember it — just in case your BF's brother was looking for further opinions on the subject.
And oh man, do I agree about the family narrative. Obviously, I grew up to be a writer, but I made my mom tell and retell every single story she could remember from before I started having memories of my own.
We started taking the girls when they were 3 and 5 and we average 2 times a year. I think that was perfect. I agree with the comenter above who said it was because they believe. They get really swept up in it all. Things have changed since we were kids as far as character encounters are concerned. There are far fewer who roam the park. They usually appear in set areas so if Betty isn't enthused, they are easy to skip. Not as many traumatized young ones that way. If your husband has the employee I'd then not only do you get in free, but stroller rentals are free and everything you buy in the park is like 40% off, which makes it all very affordable.
Hmm, that does kind of make it worth it. I like 3 and 5, but not sure I could get the hubby to agree to four more years. We'll see!
We started taking the girls when they were 3 and 5 and we average 2 times a year. I think that was perfect. I agree with the comenter above who said it was because they believe. They get really swept up in it all. Things have changed since we were kids as far as character encounters are concerned. There are far fewer who roam the park. They usually appear in set areas so if Betty isn't enthused, they are easy to skip. Not as many traumatized young ones that way. If your husband has the employee I'd then not only do you get in free, but stroller rentals are free and everything you buy in the park is like 40% off, which makes it all very affordable.
Hmm, that does kind of make it worth it. I like 3 and 5, but not sure I could get the hubby to agree to four more years. We'll see!
I love disney, as you know. 4 is the perfect age. that's when I first went there, and I have photos to prove that I thought I was in heaven. say what you want about the establishment, but it's a wonderful place that fuels, and is fueled by, a child's imagination. I remember before betty was born, you told me and justin we could take betty (with christian), and you were relieved — so I'm glad to hear that you're coming around. I think once betty starts talking, and watching the movies, and asking to go, you aren't going to be able to say no. so while you think your negotiations are relevant, they aren't. not until betty gets her doe-eyed say-so. go betty! "it's a great big beautiful tomorrow…"
Oh my God, Salllie. What about supposed-to-be-on-my-side do you not understand? Anyway, fine, CH haggled me down to 4.Ernessa T. CarterAuthor, Blogger, Totally Fierce Nerd<a href="http://32candles.com/http://32candles.com/<br /><a href="http://fierceandnerdy.com/http://fierceandnerdy.com/<br />etc@fierceandnerdy.comLooking for something to read on the beach this summer? Pre-order my book 32 CANDLES at Amazon.com
Oh my God, Salllie. What about supposed-to-be-on-my-side do you not understand? Anyway, fine, CH haggled me down to 4.Ernessa T. CarterAuthor, Blogger, Totally Fierce Nerd<a href="http://32candles.com/http://32candles.com/<br /><a href="http://fierceandnerdy.com/http://fierceandnerdy.com/<br />etc@fierceandnerdy.comLooking for something to read on the beach this summer? Pre-order my book 32 CANDLES at Amazon.com
I love disney, as you know. 4 is the perfect age. that's when I first went there, and I have photos to prove that I thought I was in heaven. say what you want about the establishment, but it's a wonderful place that fuels, and is fueled by, a child's imagination. I remember before betty was born, you told me and justin we could take betty (with christian), and you were relieved — so I'm glad to hear that you're coming around. I think once betty starts talking, and watching the movies, and asking to go, you aren't going to be able to say no. so while you think your negotiations are relevant, they aren't. not until betty gets her doe-eyed say-so. go betty! "it's a great big beautiful tomorrow…"
Oh my God, Salllie. What about supposed-to-be-on-my-side do you not understand? Anyway, fine, CH haggled me down to 4.
Ernessa T. Carter
Author, Blogger, Totally Fierce Nerd
http://32candles.com/
http://fierceandnerdy.com/
etc@fierceandnerdy.com
Looking for something to read on the beach this summer? Pre-order my book 32 CANDLES at Amazon.com
Oh my God, Salllie. What about supposed-to-be-on-my-side do you not understand? Anyway, fine, CH haggled me down to 4.
Ernessa T. Carter
Author, Blogger, Totally Fierce Nerd
http://32candles.com/
http://fierceandnerdy.com/
etc@fierceandnerdy.com
Looking for something to read on the beach this summer? Pre-order my book 32 CANDLES at Amazon.com
Oh and for myself I remember fully appreciating Disneyland at age 4, and probably earlier. By age 8 I was more into appreciating the roller coasters at Magic Mountain.
A SoCal kid who hasn't been until age 9 will be considered a weirdo. Even 6 seems very late and potentially embarrassing for Betty.
Really? A weirdo? But there are so many weird kids here! How weird could your really be considered? I mean we have a Waldorf school in our neighborhood and I don't think those kids are even allowed to use computers or cell phones.
Weirdness is relative to the other kids in your social circle/school/playgroup etc. You don't have to be that different to catch flack.
Not that I'm a proponent of fitting in for the sake of fitting in, at all. But I also don't like to set kids up to be singled out unless the rationale is non-negotiable (like passing along my vegetarianism to my children).
Yeah, I need to do a post about the whole fitting in thing when I have a little more time. I go back and forth. I completely didn't fit in when I was a kid and had some pretty hilarious (now) times trying to do so. But Betty's already starting out different, so sometimes I wonder if I should give her the little stuff, since she's not going to have the big stuff, like being in the majority race at school, or having parents who aren't geeks. Playing it by ear…
Oh and for myself I remember fully appreciating Disneyland at age 4, and probably earlier. By age 8 I was more into appreciating the roller coasters at Magic Mountain.
A SoCal kid who hasn't been until age 9 will be considered a weirdo. Even 6 seems very late and potentially embarrassing for Betty.
Really? A weirdo? But there are so many weird kids here! How weird could your really be considered? I mean we have a Waldorf school in our neighborhood and I don't think those kids are even allowed to use computers or cell phones.
Weirdness is relative to the other kids in your social circle/school/playgroup etc. You don't have to be that different to catch flack.
Not that I'm a proponent of fitting in for the sake of fitting in, at all. But I also don't like to set kids up to be singled out unless the rationale is non-negotiable (like passing along my vegetarianism to my children).
Yeah, I need to do a post about the whole fitting in thing when I have a little more time. I go back and forth. I completely didn't fit in when I was a kid and had some pretty hilarious (now) times trying to do so. But Betty's already starting out different, so sometimes I wonder if I should give her the little stuff, since she's not going to have the big stuff, like being in the majority race at school, or having parents who aren't geeks. Playing it by ear…
Wow, what a debatable subject! We took Mio for his 2nd birthday to Tokyo Disney & Disney Sea and even though I felt it was too early beforehand, he absolutely loved it…it was lovely to see him so excited by the atmosphere and though he didn't really have any prior experience of Disney characters, he thoroughly enjoyed chasing them all around the park! We are planning to go to Hong Kong Disneyland for his 3rd birthday & if we lived as close as you guys to the park, I feel sure we'd get the annual pass. Not everyone's cuppa I know, but the kids love it, no matter the age!!
Ugh! Well, thanks to you guys, CH has argued me down to 4. But there's no way I would do an an annual pass.No way. Did you take Mio to The Hello Kitty theme park, too, b/c I might actually be up for that…Ernessa T. CarterAuthor, Blogger, Totally Fierce Nerd<a href="http://32candles.com/http://32candles.com/<br /><a href="http://fierceandnerdy.com/http://fierceandnerdy.com/<br />etc@fierceandnerdy.comLooking for something to read on the beach this summer? Pre-order my book 32 CANDLES at Amazon.com
Wow, what a debatable subject! We took Mio for his 2nd birthday to Tokyo Disney & Disney Sea and even though I felt it was too early beforehand, he absolutely loved it…it was lovely to see him so excited by the atmosphere and though he didn't really have any prior experience of Disney characters, he thoroughly enjoyed chasing them all around the park! We are planning to go to Hong Kong Disneyland for his 3rd birthday & if we lived as close as you guys to the park, I feel sure we'd get the annual pass. Not everyone's cuppa I know, but the kids love it, no matter the age!!
Ugh! Well, thanks to you guys, CH has argued me down to 4. But there's no way I would do an an annual pass.
No way. Did you take Mio to The Hello Kitty theme park, too, b/c I might actually be up for that…
Ernessa T. Carter
Author, Blogger, Totally Fierce Nerd
http://32candles.com/
http://fierceandnerdy.com/
etc@fierceandnerdy.com
Looking for something to read on the beach this summer? Pre-order my book 32 CANDLES at Amazon.com
As a parent of a soon to be (in two weeks) two year old, I would not even think about taking Sekou to Disneyland right now! First, at with most kids his age he is spiraling between significant separation anxiety and "the terrible two's." I cannot even imagine what a disaster it would be if freaked because there were too many people around and one of us went to grab something (e.g., was out of his sight for even a second while the other was right there) or he wanted something and we said no so he threw his body to the pavement and went crazy! No, no, no. Perhaps Betty will be different, supposedly every child is (I have not actually found this to be the case), but for me the question is premature until you know what type of child you are dealing with. Oh and CH, Sekou is barely aware of what day it is, somehow I do not think he'd even remember Micky Mouse!
As a parent of a soon to be (in two weeks) two year old, I would not even think about taking Sekou to Disneyland right now! First, at with most kids his age he is spiraling between significant separation anxiety and "the terrible two's." I cannot even imagine what a disaster it would be if freaked because there were too many people around and one of us went to grab something (e.g., was out of his sight for even a second while the other was right there) or he wanted something and we said no so he threw his body to the pavement and went crazy! No, no, no. Perhaps Betty will be different, supposedly every child is (I have not actually found this to be the case), but for me the question is premature until you know what type of child you are dealing with. Oh and CH, Sekou is barely aware of what day it is, somehow I do not think he'd even remember Micky Mouse!
Ok, I never went to Disney as a kid and I turned out just fine. I went as an adult (to Disney World — East Coaster, here) and just could not understand what all the hype was about. So I understand your ambivalence. But, that being said, we took Neva to Sesame Place (kiddie amusement park based on the Sesame Street characters) when she was two and a half and she loooooooved it. She loved the rides and she absolutely believed that the characters were real, and she was thrilled to meet Big Bird and Elmo and Ernie and Zoe, and the parade just about blew her mind. I'm so glad that we took her and that I got to witness her excitement that day. She begged to go back to "Sesame Street" for months afterwards. And she's 5 now and she still remembers it fondly. Even if she didn't remember, though, I would and her father would. And that's important, too. Anyway, that trip totally sold me on the idea of the "family vacation", which I had never really bought into before. We're planning to go back this summer, this time with Zuri who will be 2 and a half. Monique, you should come with us!!!!
Ok, I never went to Disney as a kid and I turned out just fine. I went as an adult (to Disney World — East Coaster, here) and just could not understand what all the hype was about. So I understand your ambivalence. But, that being said, we took Neva to Sesame Place (kiddie amusement park based on the Sesame Street characters) when she was two and a half and she loooooooved it. She loved the rides and she absolutely believed that the characters were real, and she was thrilled to meet Big Bird and Elmo and Ernie and Zoe, and the parade just about blew her mind. I'm so glad that we took her and that I got to witness her excitement that day. She begged to go back to "Sesame Street" for months afterwards. And she's 5 now and she still remembers it fondly. Even if she didn't remember, though, I would and her father would. And that's important, too. Anyway, that trip totally sold me on the idea of the "family vacation", which I had never really bought into before. We're planning to go back this summer, this time with Zuri who will be 2 and a half. Monique, you should come with us!!!!