How to be a good guest

[eblackwell]

I did a search and didn't find this; I hope I'm not repeating another thread.

As a guest, I'm on a couple Disney fan boards and I'd like to post on them how we can be good Guests. This is the best place to ask. Please give me what's the top 10 things we can do to be good guests, even the most basic things like


Be friendly and polite.
Throw out your trash, including the tops to water bottles.


Hopefully, this will help you guys out if we all spread the word about how we can help make it a good day.

[BRWombat]

I did a search and didn't find this; I hope I'm not repeating another thread.

As a guest, I'm on a couple Disney fan boards and I'd like to post on them how we can be good Guests. This is the best place to ask. Please give me what's the top 10 things we can do to be good guests, even the most basic things like


Be friendly and polite.
Throw out your trash, including the tops to water bottles.


Hopefully, this will help you guys out if we all spread the word about how we can help make it a good day.Hi, eblackwell!

Good question, and I as a guest always appreciate fellow guests who want to know how to behave! This has been discussed here in the past, though -- take a look at this thread (http://www.stupidguesttricks.com/showthread.php?t=1967), and this article (http://www.passporter.com/news/news110206.htm) I put in the PassPorter newsletter. But it has been a while, so maybe some SGT'ers will have additional thoughts to share.

In any case,
:welcome: to :sgt: from :wallaby: and :wombat:!!! :D: :D: :D:

[lady ulrike]

By big thing is realize that there is generally a very good reason that we tell guests to do something especially if we're stopping them from doing something they want to do. Basically what I think I'm trying to say is do what the CM is telling you to do because it is often for your own (or others) personal safety.

[EeyoresButterfly]

Do not duck under or go over ropes, fences, etc. They are there for a reason, normally to keep you safe. I can't tell you the number of people I have had to send to First Aid because they hurt themselves trying to climb over a rope. This is my number 1 pet peeve when I do attractions.

Do not hit or punch the characters. There is a great article: http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/h2g2/A627699 which talks about this phenomenon and gives very good reasons for why this behavior should never be engaged in. (These should be common sense).

[joanna71985]

Do not hit or punch the characters. There is a great article: http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/h2g2/A627699 which talks about this phenomenon and gives very good reasons for why this behavior should never be engaged in. (These should be common sense).

"Should be" being the key words. It seems most guests leave common sense in their cars before entering the parks.

[Big Wallaby]

"Should be" being the key words. It seems most guests leave common sense in their cars before entering the parks.Well, if people had common sense, we wouldn't actually need any real rules in the parks. At least, not the kinds of rules we have now...

[joanna71985]

Well, if people had common sense, we wouldn't actually need any real rules in the parks. At least, not the kinds of rules we have now...

Very true

[Ms. Matterhorn]

Be patient! And don't try to get free stuff!

[Randy B]

Be patient! And don't try to get free stuff!

And when you do get free stuff, be thankful. Actually, it seems that if you are not trying to get free stuff you may actually get more free stuff because you are pleasant to be around and are rewarded for it.

Avoid the following phrases:

I'm spending $$$ and so you owe me a special concideration.

I came all this way to do X and I have to do this now because I am already late to go to the airport. (If it was that important you should have done it earlier in your visit.)

"Do you know who I am?"

And last but not least, "What time is the 3 o'clock parade?" :D:

Use the following frequently and with feeling:

Please

Thank you

Excuse me

May I

(SMILE)

and when necissary:

Ok, I understand, I'll try again later.

Randy

[Theme Park Where]

Go ahead and use "What Time is the 3:00 Parade?" and use it liberally. Most of us get a chuckle out of it. Hey, why not buy a 3:00 parade t-shirt from Theme Park Where?! (end blatent plug) :D:

[Cranbiz]

"Should be" being the key words. It seems most guests leave common sense in their cars before entering the parks.

Actually the SG leaves their brains in the large yellow buckets by the archway at the entrance to the world. It's real easy to find as it says "deposit brain here"

[BRWombat]

"Should be" being the key words. It seems most guests leave common sense in their cars before entering the parks.This would imply that they have it in their cars on the way into the park. That's hard to believe -- I've seen some of them drive. :rolleyes:

[Shorty82]

This would imply that they have it in their cars on the way into the park. That's hard to believe -- I've seen some of them drive. :rolleyes:

One thing I've learned last night is that driving in the Orlando area brings defensive driving to a whole new level, especially if you're on I-4 and this was at night, long after most of the traffic was off the roads.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

One thing I've learned last night is that driving in the Orlando area brings defensive driving to a whole new level, especially if you're on I-4 and this was at night, long after most of the traffic was off the roads.

That is the only saving grace when flying in to visit WDW, we don't have to deal with the drivers!! My hats off to the bus, and other transportation drivers that have to deal with that traffic on a daily basis!!

[joanna71985]

Go ahead and use "What Time is the 3:00 Parade?" and use it liberally. Most of us get a chuckle out of it. Hey, why not buy a 3:00 parade t-shirt from Theme Park Where?! (end blatent plug) :D:

Is there such a thing? I would love to get that shirt.

Actually the SG leaves their brains in the large yellow buckets by the archway at the entrance to the world. It's real easy to find as it says "deposit brain here"

I see. Don't know how I never noticed that.;)

This would imply that they have it in their cars on the way into the park. That's hard to believe -- I've seen some of them drive. :rolleyes:

Same here! Scary!:eek:

[Theme Park Where]

Is there such a thing? I would love to get that shirt.

I've got them on my website at www.themepark-where.com. I'll stop plugging now! :twisted:

[felinefan]

How to be a good guest: Read and actually follow the rules, and don't say "My kid has been on this ride a thousand times, and blah, blah, blah...." If you don't care that much about your kid's safety, what gives you the right to be a parent? Just because you CAN doesn't mean you SHOULD.

Obey the ride operator's directions; they know their ride better than you do, and what can happen if you don't sit down, sit as directed in the ride vehicle, keep all parts of your body in the ride vehicle, etc.. Height, and in some cases weight, restrictions are there for a reason. Same with physical limitations. Being able to ride is a priviledge, not a right. The ride rules are to protect you; we really hate having a guest get injured or killed on a ride because they chose not to obey the rules.

And don't sue us if you or a family member get hurt or killed on a ride; 95% of the time when someone gets hurt/killed on a ride, it was because they disobeyed the rules.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

Its very easy, go to DLR or WDW with the attitude that you are there to have fun, not get free stuff if its hot, or the line are long.

Listen to the CM's, ther are there for your safety and to assist you in having a good time.

Read the signs, and listen to the rules. If a CM tell you to stop doing something, stop! If you violate the rules, and are booted out, say thank you to Security for being strong enough to tell a guest that they are wrong, and need to leave for their own safety, and for not listening and obeying the rules!!

If you go with the attitude that it is the happiest place on earth, and that you want to participate in the fun, and not be an SG, you should not have any problem!

[Big Wallaby]

I've got them on my website at www.themepark-where.com (http://www.themepark-where.com). I'll stop plugging now! :twisted:Hey, you do enough other, related stuff here that I'll let it fly. At least, this time... However, you need to design a shirt for us that says "Notatourist". Now, how long until she comes and comments?

[joanna71985]

I've got them on my website at www.themepark-where.com. I'll stop plugging now! :twisted:

That's awsome!!

[turkeyham]

What I don't understand. What's wrong with those SG who don't know what a trash can is used for. Don'y leave your trash on a food cart thinking the employee is going to clean up after you. I wonder if their houses can be mistaken as a city dump?:twisted:

[Randy B]

What I don't understand. What's wrong with those SG who don't know what a trash can is used for. Don'y leave your trash on a food cart thinking the employee is going to clean up after you. I wonder if their houses can be mistaken as a city dump?:twisted:

Not just food carts. If you are in a food location and you carry your own food to your table, you need to also return the resulting debris to a trash can. This has become a problem at all fast food locations across the country (not just Disney). This is even more important when there is a crowd and the number of tables is outnumbered by the number of people wanting to sit down and eat the just purchased food. Leaving a trashed table is really a demonstration of poor manners. even worse at that crowd time is the people who carry their food to a table and then occupy another table with their trays. If you can't store your tray on your own table, take them all the way to the nearest trashcan (which is normally the place to stack the emptys).

I once saw a family who filled a single table, and then each family member used a different "storage table" for their empty trays, virtually occupying a total of 6 tables. Then they trashed the table they were at. Then since they each had multiple "courses" as they completed one course they put the detritus on the table with their tray, trashing the other 5 tables too. Then when they finished they wiped their mouths with napkins (which they proceded to drop on the floor) and walked out. It took 3 CMs several min to clean up that mess so the many wandering families, who were searching in vain for a table, could use these tables.

Randy

[Theme Park Where]

Sorry it took so long to return and comment :D:. Long day in theme park land! Spring break - Bah humbug!

Notatourist huh? I'll have to think on that one. I'd swear I'd already seen one like that and I don't want to be a copycat.

Back on topic, another good rule of thumb - take time out to smell the popcorn. So many people are trying so hard to get "their money's worth" that they are more like commandos than theme park guests. They push everyone out of their way, don't have time for things like pre-shows (even when they set up the story or theme), band performances, or street entertainment, and generally go through the park with blinders on. Your park ticket entitles you to enter the park, and doesn't mean you have to ride every ride. If you start out with a plan (pick your top three "to dos") and then take time out for unexpected surprises, you'll have a much more relaxed day and won't take out the frustration that ensues when you try to do to much on the cms or other guests. You'll also have time to do things properly, since you won't be rushing around like a chicken with it's head cut off. You can make sure you lock the locker so your stuff won't get stolen, and you can make sure you secure your belongings so your hat and sunglasses won't end up on the bottom of the roller coaster hill. You won't be so furious if you have to wait a little longer for a ride, since you aren't trying to make theme park visitation an olympic speed event. And if you don't get to something, you can shrug your shoulders and chalk that up as an excuse to visit another time, even if it's years down the line. You had fun with what you DID do!

[Cheshire Figment]

And don't sue us if you or a family member get hurt or killed on a ride; 95% of the time when someone gets hurt/killed on a ride, it was because they disobeyed the rules.
Your number is way too low. It should have been at least 99.9% of the time.

[TdcOgre]

Go ahead and use "What Time is the 3:00 Parade?" and use it liberally. Most of us get a chuckle out of it. Hey, why not buy a 3:00 parade t-shirt from Theme Park Where?! (end blatent plug) :D:

Oh God! Whatever you do, don't say this when Zazu is around. The results aren't pretty.:)

[Randy B]

Oh God! Whatever you do, don't say this when Zazu is around. The results aren't pretty.:)

Maybe we need to start a movement. We should start asking when the 4 o'clock parade is. Since the CM will be expecting the 3 we should get some really fun answers that can then be good conversation starters. And we will get an idea which CMs are actually listening to what we are asking. :D:

Randy

[eblackwell]

This is fantastic! I read the other thread and then everything you posted here. You posted things that I never thought people would do, or I didn't know was so widespread. Like taking up other tables for trash and trays.

And as someone mentioned, let CMs POLITELY know if there's a problem. I once saw someone leave a ton of trash in the Barnstormer queue; all the other guests griped about how terrible it was that Disney left it out there. And the reason? Because the CMs didn't know it was there! Same for a time in Fort Wilderness (our favorite resort) when one comfort station didn't have hot water. People griped, but no one had reported the problem. What, are they mind readers? Stupid. It's something I tell guests when they ask for trip advice: see a problem, let them know politely. They can't fix it if they don't know about it.

(This does not excuse the idiots who complained there was no more Nemo shows that day and no one had told him until he got to the theater. Idiot, that's what the board at the front and your show time schedule is for!)

Sorry. Rant over.

[I]Do not hit or punch the characters. There is a great article: http://www.bbc.co.uk/dna/h2g2/A627699

Speaking of sad, how sad is it that someone had to write an article on NOT punching people!

Be patient! And don't try to get free stuff!

This was one that I didn't expect. Are you getting a lot of guff because people aren't winning the free Dream giveaways?

Hey, why not buy a 3:00 parade t-shirt

I have the Mickey and Goofy 3:00 parade pin. :) I admit, I thought it was a joke until friends of mine who used to be CMs told me they got this question a LOT!

That is the only saving grace when flying in to visit WDW, we don't have to deal with the drivers!!

OK, I admit: we drive. My husband and I bring our camper (and dogs) down from NJ whenever we come. But, having both been drivers in old jobs, don't worry about us pulling stupid driving habits.

In fact, one of the best trip videos we have is me videoing the MK gate and talking about how much we were looking forward to -- suddenly, you hear my husband cursing, "Stupid *#!~&$ driver! Who the *#!~&$ does he think he is? They didn't make turnsignals in that model car?! He's got a big truck because he's got a small--" and he goes on for a good minute. When he finishes, he realizes this is all on the video, pauses, and then says sweetly, "Have a Disney day." ROTFL! :D:

Thanks again, everyone! And if you think of anymore, please post!

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

This is fantastic! I read the other thread and then everything you posted here. You posted things that I never thought people would do, or I didn't know was so widespread. Like taking up other tables for trash and trays.

And as someone mentioned, let CMs POLITELY know if there's a problem. I once saw someone leave a ton of trash in the Barnstormer queue; all the other guests griped about how terrible it was that Disney left it out there. And the reason? Because the CMs didn't know it was there! Same for a time in Fort Wilderness (our favorite resort) when one comfort station didn't have hot water. People griped, but no one had reported the problem. What, are they mind readers? Stupid. It's something I tell guests when they ask for trip advice: see a problem, let them know politely. They can't fix it if they don't know about it.

(This does not excuse the idiots who complained there was no more Nemo shows that day and no one had told him until he got to the theater. Idiot, that's what the board at the front and your show time schedule is for!)

Sorry. Rant over.



Speaking of sad, how sad is it that someone had to write an article on NOT punching people!



This was one that I didn't expect. Are you getting a lot of guff because people aren't winning the free Dream giveaways?



I have the Mickey and Goofy 3:00 parade pin. :) I admit, I thought it was a joke until friends of mine who used to be CMs told me they got this question a LOT!



OK, I admit: we drive. My husband and I bring our camper (and dogs) down from NJ whenever we come. But, having both been drivers in old jobs, don't worry about us pulling stupid driving habits.

In fact, one of the best trip videos we have is me videoing the MK gate and talking about how much we were looking forward to -- suddenly, you hear my husband cursing, "Stupid *#!~&$ driver! Who the *#!~&$ does he think he is? They didn't make turnsignals in that model car?! He's got a big truck because he's got a small--" and he goes on for a good minute. When he finishes, he realizes this is all on the video, pauses, and then says sweetly, "Have a Disney day." ROTFL! :D:

Thanks again, everyone! And if you think of anymore, please post!

You GOTTA put that video on YouTube!!!!!!! Think of it as a PSA for using turn signals!!!

[eblackwell]

Can I ask your opinion on something I've read on another site? People heatedly debated about whether this was a problem and against the rules.

They called it "Chucking Bubba into line". What happens is, one adult stands in line. Another takes all the kids somewhere else -- a store, for ice cream, let's them tear around, whatever. When the one in line is close to getting on, he/she signals the other adult and they hand all the kids (and possibly the other adult) into the line.

The people who said this was fine argued:


The kids don't get impatient in the line.
The same number of people are riding even if they didn't all stand in line the whole time.
It's not line cutting because one person did wait.
A few said they only did it once or twice, so it was no big deal. And they did primarily so they could get pictures of each parent with the kids on the ride w/o the kids having to stand in line each time.


Those that argued against it, me included, stated:


It is line cutting because some are jumping into line.
Other kids wait their turn in line. The ones who cut are being unfair to the polite ones.
Even if you do it only once or twice, that's multiplied by everyone who does it. People in the back are standing there not getting very far because the ones up front keep escalating their number.
Other ways exist to avoid this. Some rides have cars on the ground for photo taking or parents can do that ride in off times -- like during the parade -- so the family can do it twice quickly.


I had one person tell me -- this still kills me -- that I was disappointing Walt Disney's memory. That he'd shake his head at me and say, why can't you just let people enjoy my park together as a family? I told that guy that Walt would more likely say, why can't that family just enjoy the park by not disrupting the lines? Which was why, on a hot, crowded day at the Disneyland theme park several decades ago, when Walt Disney was walking through Sleeping Beauty castle seeing people push & shove, he turned to his companion and said, "This would be a great place if we could only get rid of all these people."

Another flamed me saying I should just be thankful I was on vacation, especially with all the terrible things going on in the world. I answered that I was thankful (seriously, I don't even gripe about the weather because it still beats being at work on a gorgeous day), but that they actually proved my point. Because shouldn't these families be thankful for their vacation, when so many terrible things are going on in the world, instead of jumping lines and upsetting others?

I could be wrong. It might be my own life influencing me; my parents never did this and my husband won't even let me get an ice cream and meet him in line.

You guys no better than me or anyone else. Who's right? Is "Chucking Bubba" okay or one of those things to put on the list to not do if you want to be a good guest?

[joanna71985]

This is fantastic! I read the other thread and then everything you posted here. You posted things that I never thought people would do, or I didn't know was so widespread. Like taking up other tables for trash and trays.

And as someone mentioned, let CMs POLITELY know if there's a problem. I once saw someone leave a ton of trash in the Barnstormer queue; all the other guests griped about how terrible it was that Disney left it out there. And the reason? Because the CMs didn't know it was there! Same for a time in Fort Wilderness (our favorite resort) when one comfort station didn't have hot water. People griped, but no one had reported the problem. What, are they mind readers? Stupid. It's something I tell guests when they ask for trip advice: see a problem, let them know politely. They can't fix it if they don't know about it.

(This does not excuse the idiots who complained there was no more Nemo shows that day and no one had told him until he got to the theater. Idiot, that's what the board at the front and your show time schedule is for!)

Sorry. Rant over.

In fact, one of the best trip videos we have is me videoing the MK gate and talking about how much we were looking forward to -- suddenly, you hear my husband cursing, "Stupid *#!~&$ driver! Who the *#!~&$ does he think he is? They didn't make turnsignals in that model car?! He's got a big truck because he's got a small--" and he goes on for a good minute. When he finishes, he realizes this is all on the video, pauses, and then says sweetly, "Have a Disney day." ROTFL! :D:


Didn't you know? Apparently CMs are supposed to be mind readers.:rolleyes:

Oh, you HAVE to post the link for the video!

Can I ask your opinion on something I've read on another site? People heatedly debated about whether this was a problem and against the rules.

They called it "Chucking Bubba into line". What happens is, one adult stands in line. Another takes all the kids somewhere else -- a store, for ice cream, let's them tear around, whatever. When the one in line is close to getting on, he/she signals the other adult and they hand all the kids (and possibly the other adult) into the line.

The people who said this was fine argued:


The kids don't get impatient in the line.
The same number of people are riding even if they didn't all stand in line the whole time.
It's not line cutting because one person did wait.
A few said they only did it once or twice, so it was no big deal. And they did primarily so they could get pictures of each parent with the kids on the ride w/o the kids having to stand in line each time.


Those that argued against it, me included, stated:


It is line cutting because some are jumping into line.
Other kids wait their turn in line. The ones who cut are being unfair to the polite ones.
Even if you do it only once or twice, that's multiplied by everyone who does it. People in the back are standing there not getting very far because the ones up front keep escalating their number.
Other ways exist to avoid this. Some rides have cars on the ground for photo taking or parents can do that ride in off times -- like during the parade -- so the family can do it twice quickly.


I had one person tell me -- this still kills me -- that I was disappointing Walt Disney's memory. That he'd shake his head at me and say, why can't you just let people enjoy my park together as a family? I told that guy that Walt would more likely say, why can't that family just enjoy the park by not disrupting the lines? Which was why, on a hot, crowded day at the Disneyland theme park several decades ago, when Walt Disney was walking through Sleeping Beauty castle seeing people push & shove, he turned to his companion and said, "This would be a great place if we could only get rid of all these people."

Another flamed me saying I should just be thankful I was on vacation, especially with all the terrible things going on in the world. I answered that I was thankful (seriously, I don't even gripe about the weather because it still beats being at work on a gorgeous day), but that they actually proved my point. Because shouldn't these families be thankful for their vacation, when so many terrible things are going on in the world, instead of jumping lines and upsetting others?

I could be wrong. It might be my own life influencing me; my parents never did this and my husband won't even let me get an ice cream and meet him in line.

You guys no better than me or anyone else. Who's right? Is "Chucking Bubba" okay or one of those things to put on the list to not do if you want to be a good guest?

I feel it is cutting. But that is just me.

[eblackwell]

You GOTTA put that video on YouTube!!!!!!! Think of it as a PSA for using turn signals!!!

Oh, you HAVE to post the link for the video!.

I promise, if I get the video online - complete with bleeps, I'll let you know! :D:

[EeyoresButterfly]

I have mixed feelings about that. Sometimes there is a valid reason, such as a child with a condition like autism (although we have GACs for that), or if a child suddenly has to go to the bathroom. Some GACs will actually require a similar set-up, if you party is large you have to send at least part of the party through the regular queue and the people using the alternate entrance can meet up with them when they get to the front. This is the same for GACs that require a shaded entrance, the person in question waits in a shaded area until the party reaches a part of the queue that is shaded.

That being said, what they are describing is indeed line cutting and is not tolerated at many places. Let's take a ride like Dumbo, where this tends to be fairly common. A man stands in line for a family of four. At rides at Dumbo which do not have Flik, our coordinators base the wait time on an estimation of how long the line is, now all of a sudden you have a group requiring twice as many Dumbos as you estimated. Now, if one person does it, it probably won't severely affect wait time, but if several people do this, or if it is a large group, it does affect the wait time for the people behind them. Some people do this to cheat the lines by having adult members of the party stand on multiple lines at once and then hopping to each line. This is definitely not allowed, and if discovered will get you kicked out of the line at the very least.

The other problem with this is the inconvenience to the other guests. In order to join the person who waited, they typically have to push and shove their way through a packed queue, which is not only the height of rudeness, but could result in a confrontation with other guests.

While some rides may look the other way, the characters won't! At the oasis in AK, people like to do this at the end of the day. This causes problems on the last set because the characters have to go in, and we have to close the lines, turning people away. We'll tell people that only the people in line can see the character because we're closing the lines, and they go ballistic. There was one day I got mobbed because people wouldn't listen to the attendants. The attendant pulled the families up that were obeying the rules and allowed them to see me, and then things got out of hand. They called security, but they were too far away, and so the attendants and captains had to hold back the crowd while I sprinted inside. It was one of the more frightening moments during my time there. So to the people on that board it may sound like innocent fun, but it's amazing how quickly it can cause things to deteriorate into a situation that is unsafe for all involved, and that is definitely not magical!

Sorry, rant over.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

The line thing is cutting. But I have seen a mom take a little one to the restroom while dad waited, and they returned quickly, and the line hadn't moved all that much. I don't think anyone had a problem with that, as they were in line and had to take care of a "situation" but the idea of "holding" a place for 2, 6, or whatever the number is cheating. that is cutting in line and I am sure it causes a lot of heartburn for the CM's when they hve to deal with the SG's doing it!

[drcorey]

I did a search and didn't find this; I hope I'm not repeating another thread.

As a guest, I'm on a couple Disney fan boards and I'd like to post on them how we can be good Guests. This is the best place to ask. Please give me what's the top 10 things we can do to be good guests, even the most basic things like


Be friendly and polite.
Throw out your trash, including the tops to water bottles.


Hopefully, this will help you guys out if we all spread the word about how we can help make it a good day.

and clean up after yourself, within reason.
just because you are on vacation, you are still a human being.

[joanna71985]

While some rides may look the other way, the characters won't! At the oasis in AK, people like to do this at the end of the day. This causes problems on the last set because the characters have to go in, and we have to close the lines, turning people away. We'll tell people that only the people in line can see the character because we're closing the lines, and they go ballistic. There was one day I got mobbed because people wouldn't listen to the attendants. The attendant pulled the families up that were obeying the rules and allowed them to see me, and then things got out of hand. They called security, but they were too far away, and so the attendants and captains had to hold back the crowd while I sprinted inside. It was one of the more frightening moments during my time there. So to the people on that board it may sound like innocent fun, but it's amazing how quickly it can cause things to deteriorate into a situation that is unsafe for all involved, and that is definitely not magical!

Sorry, rant over.

And that is why I hate the Oasis. It's always crazy there. And there is no good way to form hard-queue lines.

[dazyhill]

Please leave your pets at home while visiting the parks! Or board them at a kennel facility. While you,the guest,might think it's cute to have your little dog around, there are those who feel otherwise. Not to mention it is against the law to bring pets into stores and restaurants.
This weekend at Knott's,a guest brought a stroller containing a small breed dog into one of the stores. (For those not familiar with Knott's, there is a collection of shops outside the park where the Chicken Dinner Restaurant is.) When the guest was told to please take the dog outside,she became so enraged that she smeared dog feces all over the carpet!:mad: This is not just being a SG,this is just being low class.
Please dog owners,leave them at home. You may think you need your dog at your side 24/7,but they are much happier at home,away from a stressful situation such as a busy store. You will also save yourself from liability-the last thing you want is a lawsuit from a dog bite.
Of course the above does not apply to service animals. They are always welcome as well as service dogs in training.

[Princess Susi]

Go ahead and use "What Time is the 3:00 Parade?" and use it liberally. Most of us get a chuckle out of it. Hey, why not buy a 3:00 parade t-shirt from Theme Park Where?! (end blatent plug) :D:

I am buying one of those Tuesday...payday! LOVE IT!!!!!! I buy a LOT of tees from CafePress. They are great. I need to look at your site. It looks like fun. I just went over to check out the shirt and gotta have it! Good stuff!
Princess Susi

[Princess Susi]

Can I ask your opinion on something I've read on another site? People heatedly debated about whether this was a problem and against the rules.

They called it "Chucking Bubba into line". What happens is, one adult stands in line. Another takes all the kids somewhere else -- a store, for ice cream, let's them tear around, whatever. When the one in line is close to getting on, he/she signals the other adult and they hand all the kids (and possibly the other adult) into the line.

The people who said this was fine argued:


The kids don't get impatient in the line.
The same number of people are riding even if they didn't all stand in line the whole time.
It's not line cutting because one person did wait.
A few said they only did it once or twice, so it was no big deal. And they did primarily so they could get pictures of each parent with the kids on the ride w/o the kids having to stand in line each time.


Those that argued against it, me included, stated:


It is line cutting because some are jumping into line.
Other kids wait their turn in line. The ones who cut are being unfair to the polite ones.
Even if you do it only once or twice, that's multiplied by everyone who does it. People in the back are standing there not getting very far because the ones up front keep escalating their number.
Other ways exist to avoid this. Some rides have cars on the ground for photo taking or parents can do that ride in off times -- like during the parade -- so the family can do it twice quickly.


I had one person tell me -- this still kills me -- that I was disappointing Walt Disney's memory. That he'd shake his head at me and say, why can't you just let people enjoy my park together as a family? I told that guy that Walt would more likely say, why can't that family just enjoy the park by not disrupting the lines? Which was why, on a hot, crowded day at the Disneyland theme park several decades ago, when Walt Disney was walking through Sleeping Beauty castle seeing people push & shove, he turned to his companion and said, "This would be a great place if we could only get rid of all these people."

Another flamed me saying I should just be thankful I was on vacation, especially with all the terrible things going on in the world. I answered that I was thankful (seriously, I don't even gripe about the weather because it still beats being at work on a gorgeous day), but that they actually proved my point. Because shouldn't these families be thankful for their vacation, when so many terrible things are going on in the world, instead of jumping lines and upsetting others?

I could be wrong. It might be my own life influencing me; my parents never did this and my husband won't even let me get an ice cream and meet him in line.

You guys no better than me or anyone else. Who's right? Is "Chucking Bubba" okay or one of those things to put on the list to not do if you want to be a good guest?

WOW! People really said you were disappointing Walt's memory? If someone said that to me, they would experience the wrath of menopause!:twisted: I would flatten their nose. No, I would not hit them, but they would probably wish I would when I went off on them and would not quit talking to them. That is insane.
Line cutting is line cutting no matter which way you look at it. You are so right about the people at the end, staying at the end if lots of families did this. It is cutting and it is rude. I don't care if they have kids. They chose to have kids, not they need to deal with them at a Theme Park, so it does not make everyone else have to bow down to them. Their kids have to follow the rules just like everyone else.

I hear something else over at Board X all the time as well. This one always gets me going! I always hate when I hear that dreaded statement, "Disney is for kids." Oh Really! Then why is my Parkhopper more expensive than theirs and how would they get there without adults. They use this on me when I am in line for a character meet and greet and want to cut cause I am *just* an adult and they have kids and Mickey is for kids. Pisses me off everytime! I hate that. Just because they have kids and we don't they have MORE right to everything in the Park. I need to stop now, my blood pressure is going up. I will have enough opportunity to see this in action nest week when we are actualloy at DL. But that is another how not to act at Disney parks.
susi

[Shorty82]

Disney definately isn't just for kids. If it was then there wouldn't be the adult only places there are.

Also, Walt said he wanted a place for everybody to enjoy, not just the children. That right there is the best proof Disney isn't just for kids.

[Theme Park Where]

The "Disney is for kids" line bugs me too. Walt built Disneyland specifically because there weren't any places that were for FAMILIES, not just kids. And today, families are defined in a much broader term. They don't always have young kids. Families that visit the theme parks are diverse. They have young kids, older kids, or no kids. They ARE kids in some cases, either teenagers visiting on their own or young families just starting out. They are post kids. Older families where the kids have grown up and moved out. The have grandkids with them, or just enjoy spending time together as adults. And the parks have to be flexible to be enjoyable for all those groups. That's why they have adult only areas or restaurants. Walt wouldn't have had a problem with that, he would have embraced the new definition of family and would have wanted to ensure that everyone had something fun to do while visiting his "world" (and "land").

The line jumping thing also bothers me. There ARE occassions where it's permissible to "hold" a place in line for one or two people (the most used are a quick trip to the bathroom for someone who forgot to go before getting into line, and sitting out of line with someone who has a medical reason for not being able to wait in a crowd like autism, etc.), but the key word there is "one or two people". What these parents are doing is using one person to "hold" the place while the rest of the group goes out to do another attraction. Most parks have something "legal" that will do the same thing - whether it's a fastpass, express pass, or whatever. And as has been pointed out by other cms, holding places in line makes estimating the wait time almost impossible for some attractions. It's also difficult to fill shows when guests are holding seats for someone who probably isn't going to be allowed in once the show starts, or is at least not going to be able to find them without disrupting the cast and audience. I've had guests screaming in my face that I should let them into the full show because their family was holding seats. I have to tell them that we allow a certain number of people in, and even if you think your family was able to hold onto seats for you, they are keeping someone else from sitting comfortably by doing so. I've also had problems on rides with someone not getting back to the line in time and the person who was holding the space ends up either holding up the line waiting for them, thus slowing down the load time, or has to let others go around them. This is still a slowdown for loading a ride and keeps other people waiting longer than they would otherwise have to.

[SWTexasBelle]

I don't understand saying "Disney is for kids" as an excuse for kids to behave rudely. Yes, it's for kids, and for adults, and for everyone who has paid to be in the park. And they all - ALL - need to be considerate and follow the rules.

[eblackwell]

Thanks again, everyone! I think everyone understands that someone of special needs may have to do something different when it comes to waiting in queues or that someone may have to leave and com back because of a bathroom break (or some other emergency). But other than the special circumstances, line cutting is line cutting. I hadn't thought of CMs having to gauge wait times for the lines.

WOW! People really said you were disappointing Walt's memory?

Yes. It's amazing how many idiots try to twist Walt's life and intentions to fit whatever they want. The authors of "Waking Walt" did this and really ruined the book.

I hear something else over at Board X all the time as well. This one always gets me going! I always hate when I hear that dreaded statement, "Disney is for kids."

You make good points about how it's not. Since those idiots want to play the Walt card, we can remind them of the facts in Walt Disney's own words:

About how nothing he did was for kids (only): "You're dead if you aim only for kids. Adults are only kids grown up, anyway."

And

"Why do we have to grow up? I know more adults who have the children's approach to life. They're people who don't give a hang what the Joneses do. You see them at Disneyland every time you go there. They are not afraid to be delighted with simple pleasures, and they have a degree of contentment with what life has brought - sometimes it isn't much, either."

And: "To all who come to this happy place – welcome!"

That quote is on every dedication plaque for every Disney park resort.

And to add to it, his brother's words:

"May Walt Disney World bring Joy and Inspiration and New Knowledge to all who come to this happy place ... where the young at heart of all ages can laugh and play and learn - together."

And at DCA:

"To all who believe in the power of dreams... "

And from Art Linkletter, Walt's closest friend:

"And we spent part of the day, sliding down the pole in the firehouse. Walt was leading and he'd slide down there, roll up the stairs and slide down again."


Please leave your pets at home while visiting the parks! Or board them at a kennel facility. While you,the guest,might think it's cute to have your little dog around, there are those who feel otherwise.

Okay, I admit I'm one of the people who brings their dogs. I don't take them into the parks, shops, restaurants etc. because they're not service dogs, but leaving them home in a kennel for a week is actually worse for them than staying in our camper in Fort Wilderness. We obey the rules with them; we clean up after them, keep them on their leashes, and keep them out of the non-pet areas.

If we do take them to a park to be in the kennel (because we plan to be there all day), we keep them to the side of paths so as not to bother people. In Disney Hollywood Studios, where they have to be on the tram (the kennel parking was taken away at one point), we wait for an empty one and sit in the last row. We first ask the CM who is back there if dogs will bother him or her. We figure this way, if someone is bothered by dogs, they have the entire tram to sit away from us. In Animal Kingdom where the kennel is inside the gates, we again ask the security people if dogs bother them and stay to the side. We will get photos with them at the gate, but ask the Photopass people first if it bothers them. We have friends who do the same; in fact, characters said they wanted to be in the photos with the dogs, and we've never had the dogs headed for a kennel (or in FW) where people don't come up and want to pet them.

I think this is different than what you're talking about. But I'm mentioning that just as I don't want to be a Stupid Guest where I'm concerned, I don't do it with my dogs either. And to please understand there's reasons why people don't leave their dogs at home or in a kennel at home. Plus, we'll be kenneling them less at Disney now that Best Friends took over and more than doubled the price. (Personally, I think they'll close all the kennels down once their mega-spa opens, to force people to use that one.) So they'll be out of your way unless you're in Fort Wilderness (but I haven't met a CM that works in a pet loops that doesn't love pets. Gloria of loop 300, we miss you and the fantastic care and attitude you gave!) And none of this excuses bad guest behavior.

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

I don't understand saying "Disney is for kids" as an excuse for kids to behave rudely. Yes, it's for kids, and for adults, and for everyone who has paid to be in the park. And they all - ALL - need to be considerate and follow the rules.

I guess a good retort to that saying would be "true, no matter what the age"











(RUM)

[joanna71985]

I hate when people use the "Disney is for kids" line. That's not true. Disney is for people of all ages. The reason Walt created DL was so there would be a place where he could play with his daughters. Also, everyone is a kid at Disney.

[turkeyham]

A few years ago I went to Knott's with my cousin. We read something that there was no line jumping allowed on the Ghost Rider. If some was to cut, they were possibly to be kicked out of the park. Is this still true?

Second, I was feeding the ducks near the turkey cart in Fantasyland. I heard the cast member telling a SG that he was not allowed to plug in his battery pack into a socket. The cast member explained that they had a power problem with the out lets. Then the guest said you must lied to everyone who wants to charge a battery. The cast member said politely to try Main Street camera shop. They have the outlets there. What's funny, the SG wanted to go and complain this to Walt Disney. To my knowledge he is cremated and in Burbank cemetary. Good luck complaining to him.:eek:

[felinefan]

The rules at Knott's are a joke. That dump is so understaffed that it's a matter of time before they will have to close. I used to work at Knott's, and I can tell you, it's next to impossible to enforce the rules. You think it's bad at Disney's parks, try Knott's. That place is a ghetto, and a waste of money besides. The rides are falling apart from lack of maintenence, the staff is poorly trained, and to management, they are God and you are slime. They can put in all the new rides they want, that place is going downhill, and nothing can save it.

[dazyhill]

The rules at Knott's are a joke. That dump is so understaffed that it's a matter of time before they will have to close. I used to work at Knott's, and I can tell you, it's next to impossible to enforce the rules. You think it's bad at Disney's parks, try Knott's. That place is a ghetto, and a waste of money besides. The rides are falling apart from lack of maintenence, the staff is poorly trained, and to management, they are God and you are slime. They can put in all the new rides they want, that place is going downhill, and nothing can save it.

Sad but true. One of the merchandise areas at KBF today couldn't open a store because they were understaffed. (There had been five call-outs/no-shows.) A lot of food locations can't open because there is no one to man it. You should see the lines to get food when a location is understaffed.
eblackwell,you are the example of a model pet owner. I haven't had a dog in years but hope to have another furry friend in the future. Right now,I am not in a position to care for one.
I love dogs as do many of my co-workers. However we have to think of everybody who shops in the stores and what their needs are. Somebody may be severely allergic. What if a child reaches out to pet a dog and the dog bites? Then we ,the store,could get sued. We just can't afford the risk.

[turkeyham]

I know what you are talking about. When I was doing the ROP training for theme parks, I ended up being trained at Knott's. I did at that time Grizzlie Creek Lodge for food training. That place was nice at that time. Of course that was 21 years ago. I did my merch training at the General Store in Ghost town. Those were the good old days. But know, I know that it is going to the dumps. If the roller coaster and the tracks shake, it is a piece of junk. My friend Bryan works in food and he said that there is still a hole in the roof on the log ride. That hole has been there over 1 year. Maybe the owner of Six Flags Magic Mountain should buy it and demo it and rebuild everything. :eek:

[BRWombat]

...What's funny, the SG wanted to go and complain this to Walt Disney. To my knowledge he is cremated and in Burbank cemetary. Good luck complaining to him.:eek:Forest Lawn cemetery, to be precise. Hey, wouldn't it be fun to give SG's directions there when they have complaints??? :twisted:

[glendalais]

Forest Lawn cemetery, to be precise. Hey, wouldn't it be fun to give SG's directions there when they have complaints??? :twisted:

Directions? I would just drag them out into the hub, knock on the Partners Statue and go "Mr. Disney, you're needed up here!" :p::twisted:

[Syndrome]

I noticed that SGs seem to pull out the "Disney is for Kids" line to take attention off their own stupidity. Once hubby and I were getting off Buzz, and SG and her spawn stop right at the end the the belt, blocking us on the moving belt. Uh duh! Finally hubby says, "EXCUSE me!" as SG was off in la la land talking to the kids, and she whips around and snaps, "HOW RUDE! Disney is for the children!" And that relates to your blocking everyone on a moving belt how, Ms. Idiot?

[dazyhill]

Maybe the owner of Six Flags Magic Mountain should buy it and demo it and rebuild everything. :eek:

Unfortunately Six Flags is not doing well financially either. Maybe the Anheuser Busch company would be interested. Maybe then we can get some decent landscaping and food.

[turkeyham]

The Six Flags Magic Mountain out here is own by the Washington Red Skins Owner. This is in Velencia, CA. This park is open during the summer and peak season. :o:

[CBeilby]

Unfortunately Six Flags is not doing well financially either. Maybe the Anheuser Busch company would be interested. Maybe then we can get some decent landscaping and food.

Busch or Disney are the only companies that I think would be able to resurrect that pit. It wasn't so bad when I was still there ten years ago, but even then, when Cedar Fair first took over, the writing was already on the wall.

[DisneyMom]

Rumor is they will be building something like a Universal City Walk near Magic Mountain. I don't know if that is true, but they are definitely building nearby.

[Randy B]

The line thing is cutting. But I have seen a mom take a little one to the restroom while dad waited, and they returned quickly, and the line hadn't moved all that much. I don't think anyone had a problem with that, as they were in line and had to take care of a "situation" but the idea of "holding" a place for 2, 6, or whatever the number is cheating. that is cutting in line and I am sure it causes a lot of heartburn for the CM's when they hve to deal with the SG's doing it!

I agree. An emergency situation that reqires a short "step out and then back in" is generally acceptable. But all the persons should actually be physically in the line with the rest of us for the majority of the wait time (greater than 50% of the wait time). When someone works their way back out of the line to make a rest stop, most of us will not only get out of their way, but remember them. So when they return a few min later we will tend to let them past with little hastle (maybe the occasional semi-witty "Hope everything came out ok" or equivalent). But when someone who has not passed me on the way out tries to pass on the way in, they will NOT get past me on the way in (unless I am at the very back of the line and thus could have missed their original exit). I have had many a group of teens who are working their way through a line trying to "join their party at the front" that were totally unable to get past me. Due to my hobby of tree climbing that began at the age of tree it was discovered I have a grip that can't be broken. I have had as many as three teens shoving and trying batering ram maneuvers to get past that have been foiled by my ability to grasp a railing or rope on either side and I can shift my "fat ass" to block any attempt to pass. If they cry that they must ride with the rest of their group I graciously offer to allow the rest of their group join them behind me.

I guess the occasional parent with a small child who is returning through the line with smiles and an occasional "excuse me" and maybe a "restroom stop" comment will have no problem passing me if there is even a slight chance that they have made a short exit from the line previously. But a new addition to the line that expects to get right to the front (and especially if that person is a teen and fully capable of riding alone), won't get much satisfaction from me.

Of course the most fun was the day I was carrying a walking stick (due to a sprained ankle the day before), which has a removable rubber foot with a metal spike underneath for use in icy conditions, when I had a teen line cutter get stopped by me, and then proceded to stand there bumping and pushing against me in hopes that I would get tired of the hastle and let them by. I simply unscrewed the cane foot and held the cane under my arm (like a swagger stick) with the spike facing back. It was amazing how fast the bump-bump-bump stopped when they realized that the next bump would be against a 4" steel spike. :twisted::D:

Randy

[Randy B]

When the guest was told to please take the dog outside,she became so enraged that she smeared dog feces all over the carpet!:mad: This is not just being a SG,this is just being low class.

Actually that could be a jailable offence. Deliberate contamination of a premises with bio hazzard material (dog droppings) and even more hefty an offence when it is in a food handling facility, all falls under the same bio-terrorism laws as anthrax letters. As long as the "difference of opinion" was only verbal the worst would be a misdemeaner causing a disturbance, or possibly trespass if this wasn't the first offence. But when it shifted to bio terrorism that is a whole new ball game.

(note I am not in the legal profession but have just enough knowledge to be dangerous. Refer to competent legal advice before using me for a precedent quote.) ;)

Randy

[Randy B]

Disney definately isn't just for kids. If it was then there wouldn't be the adult only places there are.

Also, Walt said he wanted a place for everybody to enjoy, not just the children. That right there is the best proof Disney isn't just for kids.

Simple refutation of this. Have them re-read the dedication plaque in the MK Town Square. It mentions Age remembering their youth. And if I remember it correctly, that phrase comes before any mention of Youth visiting the past. I'll have to re check my DVD of DL opening day for the exact quote. And the same quote was reread by Roy at the opening of WDW and is on the plaque there as well.

Disney parks are NOT just for children. They are for "Families". Which also include families of ONE.

Randy

[Randy B]

Forest Lawn cemetery, to be precise. Hey, wouldn't it be fun to give SG's directions there when they have complaints??? :twisted:

Extra fun when giving those directions from WDW.

Randy

[GaTechGal]

Just a quick comment on the original post, the "Chuck Bubba" technique might be so popular because it's been in the "Unoffical Guide" books forever. And I think that people have just morphed it over time.

[lady ulrike]

I'll have to re check my DVD of DL opening day for the exact quote.
Randy

You don't need to check it. Cause I'm a big dork.

To all who come to this happy place, welcome. Disneyland is your land, here age relives fond memories of the past and youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future. Disneyland is dedicated to the ideals, the dreams, and the hard facts that have created America, with the hope that it will be a source of joy and inspiration to all the world.

And yes, that's from memory.

[DisneyMom]

You don't need to check it. Cause I'm a big dork.

To all who come to this happy place, welcome. Disneyland is your land, here age relives fond memories of the past and youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future. Disneyland is dedicated to the ideals, the dreams, and the hard facts that have created America, with the hope that it will be a source of joy and inspiration to all the world.

And yes, that's from memory.

AWESOME!!!!!!
I am totally impressed!:)

[lady ulrike]

AWESOME!!!!!!
I am totally impressed!:)

Don't be too impressed. It's in the firework show and I've probably seen the show at least 200 times (okay, more heard than seen, since I stopped watching it long ago) and that is all in the show.

[joanna71985]

You don't need to check it. Cause I'm a big dork.

To all who come to this happy place, welcome. Disneyland is your land, here age relives fond memories of the past and youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future. Disneyland is dedicated to the ideals, the dreams, and the hard facts that have created America, with the hope that it will be a source of joy and inspiration to all the world.

And yes, that's from memory.

I love that quote.:)

[Randy B]

You don't need to check it. Cause I'm a big dork.

To all who come to this happy place, welcome. Disneyland is your land, here age relives fond memories of the past and youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future. Disneyland is dedicated to the ideals, the dreams, and the hard facts that have created America, with the hope that it will be a source of joy and inspiration to all the world.

And yes, that's from memory.

good memory.

But yes the "age relives fond memories..." comes before "Youth may savor the challenge..." and both are equally stressed. So from the beginning (literally) the park(s) are dedicated to everyone of every age. Not just children or even families. Everyone.

Randy

[Cranbiz]

And those MiM's programming morons removed that speech from the public service announcements. What a loss that is. To remove Walt for a generic welcome or happy birthday. :mad:

[Goofyernmost]

On the subject of cutting lines, I can't remember if I told this on this forum or not. If I did then just skip over...a few weeks ago I was at WDW. We were nearing the front of the Q for Soarin'. I don't remember now how many seats there are across, but I did know at the time. After some quick calculation, I determined that based on the numbers in front of us, our party would be able to ride in the front row. No feet hanging down in front. Yippie! The CM was standing there waiting for the modular Q's to clear when the group in front of us told her that there were a group of people about 50 ft back that they wanted to ride with. To my amazement she told them, "OK, we will just leave that many spaces open in your row so they can join you when they get down here.

I couldn't believe that the CM basically ignored our hopes and did an authorized "cut", with these people. Now if the fall of the line would have made it so we weren't able to ride the front row, I wouldn't have been concerned at all. I would have just gone into line #2 and enjoyed the ride. Due to the fact that I was losing my favorite spot because the CM let them get in front of us, was a different story.

I didn't go ballistic or even get angry, I just decided that I wanted a front row seat and when we got to the inner Q, I just said that I preferred the front row and that these people cutting ahead had taken that away from me and I wanted to go into the front row of the next inner Q. They agreed and we got in line #1 there instead. I know it had a happy ending. No one was yelled at or harassed, and I got what I wanted, but, I still am in amazement that it even went down that way.

[Theme Park Where]

At rock n' roller coaster, that happened all the time. A more aggressive group would rush to the front of the line coming out of the preshow and would get up to me at the grouping position. They'd then indicate that they were riding with "those people back there." I always made them wait until "those people back there" caught up then sorted them into rows together. Some of the more aggressive ones we made wait until the very end of the line of people coming out of the preshow (including those that "escaped" the preshow early to try to get ahead of everyone else).

[SWTexasBelle]

I've never understood those who push and shove their way out of RNRC - it loads really fast most of the time, so you are gonna push people over to get on the ride what, a minute or two sooner?

[Theme Park Where]

Of course, don't you know that extra minute or two is gold, especially if you can grab it away from some family from Des Moines who have never been to Disney. It makes you the big man (or woman, or SG) on campus! :mad:

[GRUMPY PIRATE]

Of course, don't you know that extra minute or two is gold, especially if you can grab it away from some family from Des Moines who have never been to Disney. It makes you the big man (or woman, or SG) on campus! :mad:

You would thing that the SG's could figure out that they will get in to the attraction, no matter where they are in the crowd, but then again, they ARE SG's!!!

[StephM]

I think #1 should be "treat others as you want to be treated"

I always find it interesting that the people crying that a CM "ruined their magic" by being short with them are the ones who berate the CMs at any and every chance.

And the cutting? I bet the ones who say it is okay would feel differently when they waited in the hot sun for an hour and then Grandma and 6 kids hopped in front of them at the last minute. Kids SHOULD learn that sometimes, you have to wait your turn. Yeah, it sucks, but it happens. Welcome to life junior. Not everything entails instant gratification. If your kids get bored in line, try talking to them, playing a little game...god forbid your little angel has to wait for something. :rolleyes: I have been taking my 5 yr old and 3 yr old to WDW since they were infants. They have always waited in line with us if they were going on a ride. And they are still breathing and have suffered no long term damage from it!!!!

I am a wee bit snarky today. I am sick as a damn dog and recently started working a second job, which has me on 35 hours a week training on top of the 40 I already work. :eek:

I will be a great guest in May....I will just be so damn happy that I am not at work. :D:

[Theme Park Where]

I always advocate "practicing" waiting in line with your kids. Planning for a trip to the theme parks usually takes some time, at least for families who don't go often enough to make theme park lines seem common place. Use that time to begin working on increasing wait times. Pick the longest line in the grocery store and start discussing how much more fun it will be when the long line is leading to a ride or show. Start gathering some special "line-waiting" activities and talk them up before you go. Have a game you plan to play, or activity pages to hand out. Start rewarding patience. If you have to wait longer to get something and wait patiently, you get a sticker or something. Teach your kids to be good line waiters, and they'll be fine in the park. Teach them to push and shove their way to the front, or that waiting is "taking away from their vacation" and that's what they'll believe too.

[Whazzup]

I always advocate "practicing" waiting in line with your kids. Planning for a trip to the theme parks usually takes some time, at least for families who don't go often enough to make theme park lines seem common place. Use that time to begin working on increasing wait times. Pick the longest line in the grocery store and start discussing how much more fun it will be when the long line is leading to a ride or show. Start gathering some special "line-waiting" activities and talk them up before you go. Have a game you plan to play, or activity pages to hand out. Start rewarding patience. If you have to wait longer to get something and wait patiently, you get a sticker or something. Teach your kids to be good line waiters, and they'll be fine in the park. Teach them to push and shove their way to the front, or that waiting is "taking away from their vacation" and that's what they'll believe too.

TPW - I just copied that paragraph and sent it to my niece so she can start using those tips with her 8-year-old daughter. She's one of those who might start whining if she has to wait in lines, as she has been catered to and become somewhat spoiled. We're doing a big family get-together at WDW in November, and I don't want our fun ruined by an impatient gradeschooler. So thanks for mentioning practicing waiting in lines, and playing games, etc.

[Zazu]

I always advocate "practicing" waiting in line with your kids.Reminds me of my great uncle George. He got my brother and I to stand in a closet with the light on and the door closed. When the door didn't open by itself, he sighed, said, "Looks like we're gonna be here for a while, here, let's have some of this to keep your strength up," and passed around a flask of scotch.

He called it "elevator practice".