I’m a theme park manager and I swear by these tricks to keep young kids happy while queuing for rides

THEME parks are perfect places to take kids for a fun day out, but with younger children, there’s always the risk of them getting, overtired or just fed up.

However, there are a couple of tricks parents can use to make sure their kids are kept happy, even while queueing for rides.

By making the trip a play date kids will have other children to play with at the park (stock image)

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By making the trip a play date kids will have other children to play with at the park (stock image)Credit: Alamy

James Mancey, Operations Director at Paultons Park, the home of Peppa Pig World and Yasmin Kilic, from BabyBjörn have provided their top tips for visiting theme parks with youngsters.

Take pre-schoolers outside of school holidays

When the big kids are busy in the classroom, parks and attractions are much quieter.

Therefore there’s much less queueing involved and it is much easier to find your way around the park.

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Make a play date out of it

Days out with friends and other parents means there are extra pairs of hands to help.

It also makes things more interesting for children and can stop them getting bored during queues for rides or quieter moments.

Plus, it allows you to enjoy different rides with slightly older children if they’re visiting with you.

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Have a plan of action for lunch time

Some restaurants and cafes will operate table service and others have several self-order kiosks, both offering different benefits to busy parents. 

Suss out what feels right for you well before lunch time, so you know where to head before everyone gets hungry.

Bringing a water-repellent bib to protect clothes at lunch and snack time is always a good idea.

Family-friendly destinations should generally be breastfeeding-friendly destinations.

If you would prefer to find a quieter space, ask a member of staff for direction of where to head as most attractions have a dedicated area for parents and babies.

These will often be clean, comfortable spaces to change a nappy too.

Pack spare changes of clothes

It may seem like extra stuff to pack unnecessarily, but in case of having too much fun on water rides or a messy nappy change, it’s always handy to have spares.

Don’t worry if you forget though, many attractions and tourism destinations have shops on site that stocks the basics.

Prepare for nap time in advance

Not just for maintaining routine, but for ensuring both carers and children have a relaxing ride home.

Find and make note of somewhere quiet when you arrive, so you know where to go back to when it’s time for a snooze.

Make plans for more sensitive kids

Packing noise cancelling headphones for children who are sensitive to noise can help make days out more comfortable.

Glasses with dark or coloured lenses and a sensory toy can support young children who may get overwhelmed in new environments, so they can enjoy the day to the fullest.

Keep hands free as much as possible

When enjoying days out with young children and a baby in tow, having your hands free will make life much easier.

Opt for rucksacks rather than handbags and use a baby carrier to safely carry your baby.

James added: “Having managed the operations of the attraction for nearly five years, I know the challenges parents face and appreciate wholly how overwhelming these can feel.

“I hope that these top tips, and knowing you aren’t alone, offer reassurance, boost confidence and encourage parents and carers to relish in the magic of those pre-school years.”

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Planning nap and snack breaks can keep children happy while at theme parks (stock image)

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Planning nap and snack breaks can keep children happy while at theme parks (stock image)Credit: PA

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