7 Ways to Help Your Child Avoid the Post-Disney Blues

If you’ve ever taken your child(ren) to Walt Disney World, chances are you’ve encountered tears and I’m not talking about the happy ones at the beginning.

The end of a dreamlike vacation at the “Most Magical Place on Earth,” can dredge up sad emotions for little ones. The never-ending fun that ensues at Disney is a mind-blowing experience for them. To no longer have pixie dust sprinkled throughout their days can be a harsh reality.

After each of our family trips to Disney, my super sensitive daughter (she’s under the age of 10) bawls her eyes out as our time winds down. In our case, the silent sobs start the night before we leave and lasts off and on until our flight leaves Orlando.

While it’s heartbreaking to see her cry, I try to keep in mind that tears are a sign of a good trip. Plus, I’m usually feeling a bit weepy too because who doesn’t want to stay in the place where wearing Mickey ears and Minnie bows are part of your daily ensemble?

After our last trip, I was prepared. I came up with a few tricks to avert the waterworks and keep the magic going long after Mickey has said, “See ya real soon!”

Check them out below:

Tip 1: Purchase a surprise plush souvenir the night before you leave and give it to them at bedtime.

Tip 2: Download a favorite Disney soundtrack so they can listen to it on the ride or flight back home.

Tip 3: Buy a coloring book featuring their favorite characters for usage in the car or on the plane.

Tip 4: If they’re old enough, ask them to write down their favorite parts of the trip.

Tip 5: Stream one of their go-to Disney movies to watch during the trek back home.

Tip 6: Hit one of the candy shops and pick up some Disney-inspired sweet treats to take for the road/flight.

Tip 7: Prior to the trip, arm them (if age appropriate) with their own digital camera or mini-cam so they can take photos/videos throughout the vacation. On your trip home, have them select their best shots. It’s a great distraction and fun way to get over the post-Disney dumps.

While some of these tips might seem like spoiling a child, try to remember: they’re only kids once. Cherish this precious stage because it’s fleeting.

What’s your best tip to help you or your child get over the post-vacation blues? If you’ve ever had a Disney World vacation, what’s your most memorable moment? 

*Disclosure: I attended Disney Social Media Moms Celebration, which included accommodations, park tickets, gifts, etc. for a nominal fee.  All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.