When you’ve been planning your Disney vacation for months, all you want is smooth sailing, as those moments you’ve only dreamed of begin to near. For many children, the idea of attractions and shows, based on the magnitude Disney offers, is unfathomable; it is something that can only be seen and believed. However, there is one experience that our young Disney fans can envisage. For many, it plumps their churro-dusted dreams for weeks before they arrive: meeting their favorite Disney character.
They’ve seen that favorite movie or show a hundred times, studied all the characteristics, and the affinity with their favorite Disney pal is already strong. Even so, their first encounter with their larger-than-life (and usually larger-than-expected) friend can be a little intimidating, to say the least. Despite their excitement, it’s not uncommon for those first interactions to be a little tricky, often emotional, as they are torn between their excitement and the confrontation of being put on the spot. In some instances, this reaction is unavoidable, though for many, with a little bit of prep work before you arrive, you can avoid a negative experience with a few of our tried and true tricks. We’ve seen a wide variety of reactions when it comes to that first character meeting, and there are five secrets that you can implement before you arrive that will make that magical moment a little easier for your child to process.
See Another Character First
Character meet-and-greets are unpredictable. They can close early, cutting off the end of the line, be chaotic and loud, or even leave you feeling a little rushed and flustered. The rhythm of the whole process is something you have to get used to. Because of this, I always suggest seeing another character first; that way, the nerves and excitement of seeing your little one’s best buddy aren’t compounded with the unpredictability of getting frustrated in their first meet & greet line. A warm-up experience always helps!
Prepare for the Line at Home
It’s always a good idea to prepare your children for the more difficult aspects of Disney in advance. Make talking about the process a part of your routine before the trip, reminding them that it can be a long and tedious process, but that exciting things await when it is their turn to visit with their favorite Disney character. If you aren’t sure what to expect, read our guide to The Unspoken Etiquette of Disney Character Meet & Greets. Make a plan of some things you can do in line while you wait, like play a family game of eye-spy or talk about your favorite movie moments that you love with the character you are about to meet.
Make a Plan For Your Child to Connect
I always see kids who finally reach the front of the line and then feel intimidated and nervous, not sure what they should do or say. Make a plan ahead of time. Depending on your child’s personality type, they might like to choose something to say or practice a special pose. If the interaction is with a face character (someone who speaks, like the Disney Princesses), maybe talk about showing them a special toy or accessory you’ve brought with you. One year, my son showed Captain America his shield, which he had with him, and made for some of the best character photos we have ever had. Practice a big, clear voice, and standing still for the pictures; this can be extra hard when your Disney bestie is right next to you!
Practice Your Options
Have a few options in mind and practice them at home in a fun way. Say something like, ‘What are we going to do when we see Elsa?‘ and practice poses in the mirror. A clever pose you have prepared earlier is a great way to meet and get photos with Marvel characters, too, and they love to match that energy for the photographer and give your child an experience they won’t forget. They might want to tell a joke or ask a question; in any case, practicing a few different options is a great way to help them think of something on the spot. Practice by saying things like ‘Tell Grandma what you want to ask Moana!’
Make The Most Of Your Time in Line
As you approach the front of the line, encourage your child to watch the kids ahead, note the routine that occurs, and talk them through it as it is happening. Meet, a quick cuddle, a cute interaction, photos, and say goodbye. Seeing this happen a few times ahead of them can help a shy or unsure child feel more comfortable. It’s a good chance to remind them of what they wanted to say or do when it’s their turn, and suggest those last-minute prompts, like, don’t forget to stand extra still for your photo, and Mommy will be right there, showing them where you will be so they don’t get caught off guard when you move out of the frame.
Now it’s over to you! Leave the still to the professional Disney PhotoPass Photographers and take the chance to video your interaction. I love looking back and watching the delight as their faces light up. It’s the stuff young dreams are made of.
