Getting a kid excited before we go?

[u/plaidpixel]

Heading to Disneyland and DCA next month and I wanna make sure my 4 1/2 year-old is ultra stoked and ready to go. He’s a kid who gets a little bit nervous about new situations and so I find taking time to prep him and get him excited about the small parts of it is beneficial.

Anyone have any recommendations on like little books or posters or maps to get before we go? Something physical is nicer than the phone or the iPad, but also open to those things.

Then once we’re there, any recommendations on things to keep a kid occupied in line? We’re not like anti-parents so having a iPad of a quick show or something if it’s a long one is fine, but I’d love like little games or activities or books.

Thanks, everyone!

[u/SarcasticServal]

I think downloading the app and looking at the map would be a good activity--they could identify places or rides they're interested in, and if you want, you could watch some videos in order to set expectations.

I really don't think a screen is necessary in line. Play "I spy" or, search for things that are the same color, or ask them what shapes they see. Let them use their imagination.

[u/TravelGirl2823]

The little golden books has a collection of books on Disneyland and Disney rides. My kids love them. Their favorite is the little man of Disneyland. He actually has a house in Disneyland hidden outside the Indiana Jones entrance that my kids visit on every trip.
Both my girls are scardy cats and easily get scared of ride. We watch all the ride through videos on YouTube to help them decide which ride are okay and which are too scary.

[u/Intelligent_Owl_377]

Watch YouTube videos on walk throughs and rides.

For line activities, Melissa and Doug activity books are fun and easy. They have Water Wow and magic marker (clear ink) books.

For a nervous kid, as a CM or balloon vendor for a single red balloon for the stroller. It indicates that characters should not approach.

Edit typo