Greetings fellow Mouse Fans!
Expedition Everest was next on our list. This is my favorite coaster at Walt Disney World and I was dying for my son to try it! Luckily I had learned from our Haunted Mansion experience and gave Ryan a bit of the history of the ride, and its development. We took some time in the Fastpass queue to point out some of the things that would appeal to him. (Nothing makes an 8 year old boy laugh faster than pointing out the Yeti poop!) The fact that he could ride next to me and that there was the promise of a stuffed Yeti at the end had him boarding the train quickly if with a little trepidation.
I also shared with him my time tested coaster trick – scream! The reason that many folks get queasy on coasters is that they get scared and hold their breath which increases the pressure on your stomach. Screaming, laughing, cheering, etc all force you to breathe and release some of the pressure on your stomach. You may sound like a fool but you will enjoy the ride much more!
So Ryan and I rode together, screaming the entire way. (Clearly some of the other guests heard my advice!)
He loved it and is the proud new owner of a stuffed Yeti he has since dubbed "Snowball."
YouTube videos, ride photos, and discussions are all great tools for preparing your child for new experiences at Disney. But you don't really know how they will react until you get there. So be prepared to encourage, discuss, or even indulge in a little bribery. But in my experience, the more freedom you give your child to say "No" the more likely they are to say "Yes!".
Be well and make magic wherever you go!
Sara Varney
Travel Planner
