Unless you’re a marathon runner (and probably even if you are), vacationing at Disney parks is exhausting. It’s a good idea to schedule some down time in your vacation, at least one day of rest for each three of your park-visiting days.
But if you’re there with kids, you know what that means. Children from the age of three up will complain about each “wasted” day on a Disney vacation. When they’re a little older, around 14, you can put them on a bus to one of the waterparks and not worry; but the smaller ones can’t go without you.
If you’re staying at one of the Disney resorts, this is an easy problem to alleviate. Each resort, from the cheapest to the most expensive, has at least one themed pool area, and many have several pools. There are dozens of comfortable deck chairs placed around them that you can lounge in, get some sun or shade, and read your beach novel in while the kids play in the kiddie or full-size pool. At some resorts, like Port New Orleans, you’ll even find waterslides and lush greenery.
The resorts also offer day camps for kids. If you want to get them out of your hair for a couple of hours so you can rest or go to a park by yourself, schedule them in at one of the day camps. Activities vary. At the Contemporary Resort, they might participate in a baking day camp, where they’ll be able to make their own Disney pastries and eat them. Several resorts offer adventure camps, where the kids can explore the resort grounds (really nice for the Wilderness Resort, where wild animals have their own preserve right behind the hotels) or watch movies and play games. There is a fee for these day camps, so be prepared for that. Reserve places in advance.
You can also hire a babysitter at any of the resort hotels; they’re available 24 hours, so you’ll be able to find one for any time you need him or her. These young men and women are experts at finding ways for your children to have fun while you sleep, visit the spa, or do your own thing on your day of rest. You’ll need to schedule babysitting in advance, and there is an hourly charge.