Theme & amusement parks like Kings Dominion or Busch Gardens and further away destinations such as Hershey Park and Walt Disney World can be loads of fun for people of all ages. Theme parks are popular travel destinations and activities to do during summer break from school, but there can be some risks associated with these fun places. Before your travel, check for information on your destination’s website to see if there are any rules you should follow, keeping in mind these regulations are in place to keep all visitors safe! Check on bag policies and research what is or is not allowed within the park boundaries. If you need to carry any medication for your child (ex: EpiPens, rescue inhalers, insulin), be sure to take these items with you and you may need to communicate with the staff conducting bag checks at the gates. When planning your day at the park, look at the maps of the location and identify important places you may need to know about, such as First Aid locations, restrooms, child care centers, and help desks. In large crowds, it can be easy to get separated from the group, so review safe places to meet if that separation occurs. If your young child does not know your phone number or contact information, consider putting it in their pocket or clothes.
Guidelines regarding height, weight, or age requirements should be followed strictly, and you should not attempt to falsely alter your child’s appearance or height, no matter how excited they are about a certain ride or experience. If a child does not fit the requirements for the ride at entry to the line, this is likely due to a safety issue regarding how they will fit into the seat or ride vehicle. Some rides may be “safe” for your child to enjoy, but the lighting/darkness or themes may be frightening. If you are unsure if a ride is appropriate for your child, consider watching a POV video of the ride on YouTube, or discussing what to expect on the ride with your child.
During your day of fun, don’t forget to apply sunscreen when you start your day and reapply it every 2 hours! Dress appropriately for the weather: supportive walking shoes will prevent pain, comfortable clothes will keep everyone happy, and light-colored clothing can help keep you cool. If you will be out all day long, bring layers in case the evening hours get chilly. Clothing to cover the skin and protect from the sun can help prevent burns: consider wide brimmed hats and sunglasses for the face and eyes. Hydration will also be very important, so keep water on hand and frequently stop for hydration stations throughout the day. Take rest breaks frequently, preferably in shaded or indoor locations on hot days. If anyone is feeling unwell, seek out a First Aid location for assistance.
Stay safe and have fun this summer!
Walt Disney World. (2024). Wild About Safety. https://disneywildaboutsafety.com/
Kids In Danger (KID). (May 15, 2019). Amusement Park Safety Tips. https://kidsindanger.org/2019/05/amusement-park-safety-tips/#:~:text=Read%20all%20signs%3A%20Only%20let,%2C%20bars%2C%20straps%2C%20etc.