Helping your Kids Overcome Their Fear of Rides at Disney World

Going to Disney World is always a fun experience for families, filled with magical memories andexciting adventures. However, some children may have nerves or fears about the rides, which can put a damper on the fun. If you’re a parent looking to help your kids get over their fears and embrace the excitement of Disney World, you’ve come to the right place! I”m going to guide you through various types of rides, from beginner to thrill, and provide tips and ways to make the process fun for your little ones. As a father of two growing boys who now ride pretty much anything. So, here is the order I recommend for your kids to get over their fear of rides at Disney World.

Beginner Rides at Disney World

Disney World offers a bunch of gentle rides suitable for children of all ages. Because of that, these rides serve as an excellent starting point to help your kids gradually acclimate to the park’s atmosphere. Here are a few beginner rides that can help ease their fears:

1. Dumbo the Flying Elephant: This iconic ride takes guests on a gentle up-and-down flight aboard adorable elephant carriages. Encourage your kids to embrace the whimsical atmosphere and enjoy the sensation of flying.
2. Mad Tea Party: Step into a giant teacup and spin to your heart’s content! Start with a slow spin and gradually increase the speed as your kids gain confidence.
3. Frozen Ever After: Join Elsa, Anna, and friends on a boat ride through the world of Frozen. The enchanting visuals and familiar characters will distract your children from any fears they may have. Now, this ride does have a very small drop at one point. However, it will help your kids prepare for the next step.
4. Peter Pan’s Flight: Embark on a magical journey over the rooftops of London and into Neverland. The gentle motion and captivating scenery will capture your children’s imagination and minimize any anxieties.

Beginner Coasters at Disney World

Once your kids feel comfortable with the beginner rides at Disney World, it’s time to introduce them to the excitement of roller coasters. These coasters are designed with young riders in mind, giving them a fun experience without too much intensity. Here are three beginner coasters that will little by little build their confidence:

1. Barnstormer: Climb aboard Goofy’s “Great Goofini” for a mini roller coaster adventure. With gentle drops and moderate speeds, this coaster is an excellent introduction to the world of roller coasters. This is absolutely the 1st coaster I recommend putting your kids on.
2. Slinky Dog Dash: Inspired by the Toy Story films, this coaster takes riders on a thrilling journey through Andy’s backyard. The smooth ride and playful theming will keep your kids engaged and excited. It is a launch coaster, but it doesn’t go too fast. This is an excellent way to start getting your kids used to launches.
3. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: Join Snow White and her dwarf friends on a delightful mine cart adventure. This coaster combines gentle swaying with exciting moments, preparing your children for more thrilling experiences.

Mid-Tier Attractions

As your children become more comfortable with coasters, it’s time to explore mid-tier attractions at Disney World that offer a mix of thrills and immersive storytelling. These experiences will take your kids on unforgettable adventures while gradually increasing the intensity. Here are five attractions to consider:

1. Space Mountain: Venture into space on this iconic indoor roller coaster. While it may seem intimidating due to its darkness, the smooth ride and futuristic theming will captivate your children.
2. Avatar: Flight of Passage: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking world of Pandora as you ride on the back of a banshee. The stunning visuals and simulated flight experience will leave your kids in awe.
3. Soarin’ Around the World: Take a simulated hang-glider tour of famous landmarks worldwide. The gentle motion and awe-inspiring scenery will make this a memorable experience for your children.
4. Test Track: Design your own virtual concept vehicle and then take it for a thrilling high-speed test drive. The interactive nature of this attraction will engage your kids’ imagination and minimize any apprehension. It’s basically like riding a really fast car.
5. Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Set out on a runaway mine train adventure through the Wild West. With moderate drops and twists, this coaster will provide a thrilling experience without overwhelming your children.

Thrilling Disney World Rides

Finally, let’s explore the realm of thrill rides, where the excitement reaches new heights. These attractions offer adrenaline-pumping experiences that may challenge your children’s fear of Disney World rides. By this stage, they will have developed a solid foundation of confidence. Here are five thrilling rides for your family to conquer:

1. Expedition Everest: Embark on a daring expedition to the Himalayas and encounter the legendary Yeti. This coaster combines thrilling drops and high speeds with a captivating storyline. This ride has an exciting but scary slow climb to 199 feet. However, it thankfully for many, it does not drop from that high.
2. Tron: Lightcycle Run: Inspired by the futuristic Tron films, this coaster propels riders into a high-speed race on light cycles. The sleek design and exhilarating speeds will leave your kids craving more.
3. Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind: Join the Guardians on a thrilling adventure through space and time. This coaster combines forward and backward motion, unexpected twists, and engaging storytelling. Quite frankly, this is without a doubt the best ride at Disney World.
4. Tower of Terror: Step into the eerie world of the Twilight Zone as you enter an abandoned hotel elevator. Prepare for a spine-tingling drop sequence that will leave your kids on the edge of their seats.
5. Aerosmith Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster: Experience high-speed thrills with a rock and roll twist. This indoor coaster takes you on a wild journey through Los Angeles while accompanied by Aerosmith’s music.

Ready to have fun?

With a well-thought-out progression from beginner rides to thrilling attractions, you can help your children conquer their fear of Disney World rides, and embrace the excitement of Disney World. Remember to encourage and support them throughout the process, allowing them to set their own pace. Gradually exposing them to various rides and attractions will foster a sense of adventure, confidence, and a lifetime of magical memories. So, plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready to experience the enchantment of Disney World together as a fearless family!

Author: Jose Velazquez

Jose is the founder and writer at amusementparkdad.com. He Lives in Lakeland, FL, with his wife, two sons, and two dogs. Jose’s favorite hobby is spending time with his family at all the Theme parks in Orlando. They recently became annual pass holders at Disney and have absolutely fallen in love with the Magic. They look forward to exploring everything Disney offers in the years to come.

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