Greetings fellow Mouse Fans!
Child safety at Walt Disney World. Sad but true that we must think of safety issues even in the happiest place on earth. Children do on occasion wander or become separated from their parents. It is important to discuss with your child what to do should this occur. I recommend telling your child either to find someone behind a cash register (thus ensuring they are a Cast Member and not just a Guest wearing a name badge) or finding the nearest woman with children. It is also a good idea to have some form of ID on your child that they can show the person assisting them. Even children who have had your cell number memorized for years can forget when under stress!
There are a variety of Child IDs available – everything from labels to go inside clothing to "dog tags" for children and even IDs that attach to shoes. A quick internet search will reveal a number of options. Choose whatever works for your family.
It is also important for parents to have some form of child ID or photo with them. There are a number of companies that make ID cards for children with a photo, recent height and weight, any distinguishing marks and in some cases – a fingerprint. In my case, our son is adopted from Korea so no one is likely to assume we are his parents if separated from us. I keep an ID with us just in case! If nothing else, I recommend taking a photo of your child each morning so that you know what he or she is wearing that day. Again, under stress, your recollection is likely to be less than clear!
While no one likes to think of anything unpleasant occurring on vacation, a little preparation can go a long way towards ensuring a happy ending.
Be well and make magic wherever you go!
Sara Varney
Travel Planner
