Disney advice (with a kid for the first time)

[NegativeGLover]

Next week my family (12 people total, with 2 kids - ages 2 years and 8 months) will be heading to Disney for the week. We've got all the plans laid out for the most part with dining, character meetings, etc., all ironed out - for the most part at least. I have always been the planner and park go-er with all the advice and what to do when type stuff. I haven't been to Disney in 14 years, and still have a pretty good idea on what to do when. This is the first time I'll be traveling with my son though (8 month old). So my wife and I find ourselves in slightly unfamiliar territory this trip. Does anyone have any advice for hitting Disney with a "not quite toddler" aged child?

 

We've got the basics down of hitting the park early and then going back to Bonnet Creek for the mid-afternoon naps. Then back into the park for dinner. I guess I'm wondering if there is any advice about things I might not know about Disney and kids. I'm familiar with the parent swap, but there will be people to watch him when we are riding. Any other tips/tricks/awesome things to do with your child or thing that might just make the trip all that much better?

 

The only other question would be - where do you guys feel is the best spot in Epcot to watch Illuminations?

 

Also - I plan on being in the Magic Kingdom on Friday night/early Saturday morning roaming around somewhere. I'll be sporting my TPR "90 Degrees" shirt most likely, so if you see me give me a shout out. Thanks!

[SharkTums]

Stay in the shade with the kid, find little indoor nooks with AC. The problem you'll run into with the 8 month old is that a lot of the buildings don't allow strollers in so if your kid is asleep you can't wheel them into the Land Pavilion or a restaurant.

 

We like to watch Illuminations from Mexico.

 

No one seems to know how busy next Friday will be so good luck!