Even in the most magical place on earth, kids can come down with sniffles or worse. Here’s how to handle it calmly, quickly, and without derailing your trip, based on my own experience.
One of my biggest Disney fears came true on my last trip: My kiddo got very sick on a planned park day. It was our EPCOT day, and we had already purchased our Lightning Lanes in advance and secured our top rides. We even managed to get a dining reservation at Le Cellier (a first for us!). We were super excited!
The day before, we spent time at Hollywood Studios and had planned to visit each park back-to-back, with a rest day before heading home. It was an action-packed trip – but unfortunately, there was no way he was going to make it to the park. We had to cancel all our plans for the day.
Kids getting sick is a fact of life for parents. And illnesses can strike at any any time, including right in the middle of a perfectly-planned Disney World vacation. So, what should you do when your child falls ill? Here’s what I did (and what I learned).
When Kids Get Sick, Cast Members Can Make Magic Happen
Losing out on experiences and extras you’ve prepaid for is particularly frustrating when your child winds up sick at Disney World. And in our case, I had already paid for a Lightning Lane Multi-Pass for EPCOT and booked three attractions.
I didn’t want to lose the money I’d spent. So, I visited the front desk of our resort and explained the situation. The fantastic Cast Member was able to transfer my Lightning Lane purchase to my final day, as I’d (luckily!) built a free day into our itinerary. Although I wouldn’t have a family pool day, I was relieved that we’d at least get to enjoy EPCOT!
Photo by Morgan Flaherty
If there is no flexibility in your plans to adjust park days, a Cast Member may still be able to make some magic happen. They might provide alternative options so you don’t have to let your unused purchases go to waste.
Additionally, I was able to cancel our dinner reservation without incurring a cancellation fee since I provided more than two hours’ notice (if you didn’t know Disney’s advance dining reservations now offer a shorter cancellation window, now you do!). Some dining reservations may have different cancellation policies, so it’s always best to check the My Disney Experience app or consult a Cast Member if you need to modify a reservation.
Pack the Essentials, Even If You Don’t Think You’ll Need Them
Luckily, I was prepared when my son got sick at Disney World. I’m thankful that I packed plenty of children’s medications, so when he wasn’t feeling well, I was prepared. In fact, it was the first time I needed to use all the medicines I brought – and I’m happy I had them.
Most parents travel prepared with a supply of staple medications, like children’s ibuprofen, acetaminophen, antihistamines, and even motion sickness medications. But odds are these are rarely used. However, after this experience, I can say it’s much better to be prepared than to not have the medicines you need on hand!
Photo by Morgan Flaherty
Each Disney World Resort does have medications for purchase, but if your child becomes ill while in the parks, you’ll want to head to the First Aid and Baby Care Centers are excellent resources. Keep in mind that prices for these items can be higher there, too, so it’s always wise to bring your medications just in case.
Make the Most of a Sick Day
Although my poor child felt terrible, we managed to make him comfortable with medication and plenty of electrolytes. My husband and I decided to take turns staying with him in the hotel once he had fallen asleep and was resting comfortably. It wasn’t an ideal situation, but since we didn’t both need to be in the room, we were able to take turns and enjoy some of the perks of our unexpected “resort day.”
When it was my turn to take a break, I went to the resort pool with my book to enjoy a few hours alone in the sun and relax. While I was in our hotel room, I watched some Disney movies and made the most of the day. After all, I was still in Disney World!
Photo by Danny Shuster
And thankfully, after a day of rest, my child recovered from his illness and the rest of the trip went off without a hitch.
Whenever your Disney World trip encounters unexpected challenges, remember that you are still in the most magical place on Earth. You may feel defeated and disappointed, but keep an open mind and collaborate with the wonderful Cast Members who are there to help you!
