Well, as I may have mentioned, been a mom for 20 years. I have in no way, shape, or form any professional expertise. I'll leave that to my awesome sitter, Leenie. Anyway, toddlers are basically little psychopaths in child disguises. You never know when they are going to straight up lose their minds and go berserk. You can, however, recognize the signs of imminent crazy and avoid the melt down. I am talking of vacation and the overwhelmness of it all. Places like Disney, Sea World, Legoland, and even the Zoo can be super sensory overload. Parents often want their children to have a memorable experience (we paid a fortune for this vacation!) that they often push their child past their limits, and a tantrum is the result. Too often I have seen crying toddlers; hot, sweaty, crying, and miserable. So here are a few helpful hints. Remember every child is different. It is important to know your child's limits and communication methods.
Look for the sleepy time nap signs:
It could be anything as simple as rubbing their eyes to a head nod. Once you notice these signs, remove them to a quiet place and intimate nap protocol.
Hydrate and Shade:
Vacation is usually taken in summer, and often times outside of the child's usual climate. Children aren't used to being outside all day, so make sure they drink plenty of water, have access to shade, and wear sunscreen. There is nothing worse then a cranky toddler - except maybe a sick man... I don't know, that's kind of a toss up. Umbrella strollers are small and convenient, but don't really offer much in shade. Try to find a lightweight stroller, cheap, yet shady. I recently purchased this (good for up to 50 lbs!) I'll review it later after Disneyland/comic-con trip.
Kolcraft Cloud Plus Lightweight Stroller, Slate https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00QHKAMG4/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_kwWivb1D11KCH
Don't be afraid to breastfeed - feed the beast!
Seriously, no one cares anymore. If your child is hungry, feed them. Besides, the Pope says it's ok, who are we to argue? They need the comfort as well, big busy places are unnerving, and they just want the comfort and reassurance of mama.
Pack their usual snack:
Some things we don't really consider is that most kids aren't used to a theme park diet. All that rich food has to upset their little tummies. Skip a rich meal, opt for a pb&j, or just pack some Cheerios in a ziplock. All these can help alleviate the tummy upsets. Apple juice is the great equalizer, so have some of that. Also yogurt banana juice works wonders.
Don't push your child past their limits:
You don't have to see the fireworks, show, or get that last picture. If they are too tired, they won't enjoy it anyway. Sometimes retreat is the best answer. Remember, you still have to pack up, find your car, fight your way out of the parking lot, and make it back home or hotel. Besides, now you have an excuse to come back! You're welcome.
Most of all, have fun and enjoy being a family.
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