They Won’t Remember, But I Will {In Defense of Bringing Littles to Disney}

I have now taken kids to Disney twice who probably will never remember.

The first was my oldest, right when he turned two, and then my middle child, Dane, when he was 17 months. I absolutely do not regret either.

Disney

Last year, my dad offered to take all of his grandkids to Disney. We were all so excited, but I already decided that it was in everyone’s best interest to leave my 17 month old behind with someone else. He wasn’t a good sleeper, he probably wouldn’t enjoy any of the rides, and I would miss out on all the fun chasing him all over the place. Grandpa wasn’t having it and said the baby must come. So come he did.

By the end of the trip, I could not have been happier that I brought him.

I hear a lot that children of a certain age won’t remember these types of trips so why bring them. I get that, I really do. It’s true, they won’t remember. But you will. I will always remember that baby’s first trip to Disney. He had the very best time.

I will always remember how in awe he was of Mickey Mouse. Every time we saw Mickey, that baby just stood in total awe. We could barely get him to look at the camera for a character picture. He really was so intrigued by all the characters we encountered, but Mickey just stole his heart. Mickey could not get away without lots of kisses from Dane. 

I will never forget how much he loved It’s a Small World. He could barely take it all in. His head turning from side to side, so wide-eyed and so in wonder of it all.

The memory of him dancing with the street performers in Africa at Animal Kingdom is so etched in my mind and I can’t help but smile and laugh every time I watch the video of it.

The sleeping I was so worried about turned out not to be an issue at all. For all the fun Disney is, it’s also exhausting no matter your age. My usual non sleeper ended up sleeping great. He would just nap whenever wherever we were.

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By the time we got back to the hotel at night, he was also so exhausted he would just lie down and fall right to sleep.

I absolutely do understand that Disney is a lot of work and even more money. You have to do what is right and best for your family. But the memories will be yours for the rest of your life and if you can swing it, that makes it all worth it.

So yes, they probably won’t remember, but I will. I will forever cherish those sweet memories and I am so thankful for them.

Tara
Tara grew up all over south Louisiana and currently lives in Metairie with her husband Josh, and their 3 kids Dax, Dane and Delta. Tara is a buyer for a local food-service distribution company and Community Director for New Orleans Mom. During the week she can be found replying to emails, carpooling kids all around, giving out hugs and kisses, and looking forward to bedtime. Weekends are for family adventures, naps and cheering for LSU and the Saints. She loves trying new foods, travel, and she and her family love all things New Orleans, but especially Mardi Gras.

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