Since 104 days of summer vacation may not be enough to get
in a trip to Disney, not to mention the potential for heat and crowds during
that time, some families are faced with the dilemma of taking kids out of
school for a trip to the magic. Oh,
what to do?
Well, one option to consider is to take the kids ruing the “off”
times, when everyone else is in school while the kids are still part of the
pre-school set. No missing school and
getting an opportunity for a Disney vacation with smaller crowds. Best of the options.
But if your children are older and in school, then your
family may have to decide. . . school or Disney? I will say, the boy has missed some school
due to Disney trips, but not many. Two
days at most. We went in November during
a short school break and added on a couple of days in which he missed
school. He did have some “homework” that
was completed and turned in. We saw
other families with their “homework” stacks being completed in the airport.
Let us not overlook the potential for learning at the most
magical place on earth. The theme parks
are more than just rides, shows, attractions, and characters. At Animal Kingdom for example, there are Discovery
Stations for the kids to learn about the animal world. These stations are staffed with Cast Members
are very interactive. There are also
Cast Members located throughout the various trails to answer questions, share
information, and point out details often overlooked by guests.
EPCOT has a whole world to explore, literally. The Kidcot stations at the World Showcase
Pavilions offer a chance to explore a new language both verbally and in
writing. The music, sounds, sights, and
tastes of various countries and cultures surround World Showcase Lagoon. The various films and experiences throughout
World Showcase give guests of all ages vivid images, information, and music of
the country or region represented in the Pavilion. The American Adventure Pavilion offers a
journey through U.S. History. After we
had watched O’Canada, the Circle Vision Film in the Cananda Pavilion, the boy
turned to me and said, “I want to go to Canada .” I could understand why. Even today, he can recognize the music from
the presentation on our “Four Parks, One World” CD.
EPCOT also offers the Living Seas Pavilion with two stories
of encounters with underwater creatures.
Inside the Pavilion, various learning stations are available for guest
interaction along with presentations.
Living with the Land Pavilion offers guests an opportunity to learn
about recycling Earth’s resources in a movie featuring the gang from The Lion
King, and a boat ride featuring information about the land and various ways to
grow plants with the Living With The Land attraction. It is one of our favorite attractions.
In addition to the opportunities available for all guests,
Walt Disney World offers various tours and experiences that can extend the
learning. For example, guests wanting to
know more about the animals at Animal Kingdom could reserve the Wild Africa
Trek tour for an additional cost. A family
may want to go “Behind the Seeds” for a tour at Living with the Land in
EPCOT. The Living Seas Pavilion also
offers interactive experiences with sea creatures.
So, if your family is deliberating with the decision about
school or Disney, consider the learning options available at Walt Disney
World. Also, check with your local
school about their attendance policy.
Weigh your options and make the best decision for your family.
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