The Unique Way Some Parents Keep Track Of Their Kids At Disney Parks
Navigating the magical world of Disney parks with a child in tow — or even more challenging, multiple children — can be just as exciting as it is nerve-racking. After all, in between the parades, larger-than-life characters, and adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, keeping track of your little ones can quickly go from manageable to overwhelming in a matter of seconds. Luckily, the internet is ablaze with ways to make Disney parents' life just a little bit easier. From simple stroller tips to help you keep track of your belongings to understanding the ins and outs of planning a sensory-friendly trip to Disney for children who might need extra accommodations, there's truly no shortage of advice out there. And that treasure trove of tips and tricks is precisely where the unlikely and unexpected hero of family vacations starts to shine.
Small and unassuming, the Apple AirTag was officially launched in 2021 as part of their "Find My" ecosystem. To start with, the gadget was primarily designed to help users locate their keys, wallets, and bags — all with a few screen taps. Today, however, it's become a go-to for finding and tracking pretty much any item, person, or even pet under the sun — including, according to various Reddit threads, children who might unexpectedly venture off during busy park days.
Using an AirTag to track your child
Setting up an AirTag to keep track of your child at Disney is simple. First, you'll need to actually buy one — these typically cost $29 for a single tag or $99 for a pack of four. Then, to set it up, hold the device close to your iPhone, and it will automatically detect it and guide you through the process. Once it's connected to your account, the AirTag will continuously use Bluetooth technology to communicate with nearby Apple devices, creating a vast network that can then help you locate the "missing" tag via your "Find My" app. Boom — easy.
In terms of how to attach the AirTag to your child, there are different options you can choose from. Some of the most popular include clipping it to a backpack, using a child-friendly bracelet or necklace to hold the tag, or pinning it somewhere inside their clothes for a more discreet approach.
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This way, not only can parents have peace of mind — adding another precaution onto a long list of ways to avoid putting their kids in any unnecessary danger while visiting Disney — but they can also maintain a sort of virtual "tether" to their children, all without the need for the controversial backpack-and-leash combo. So whether a child decides to take a quick bathroom break or bursts into an impromptu dash to meet Mickey, parents can breathe a little easier knowing they can easily pinpoint their child's location.
Other ways to keep your child safe at Disney
Even though AirTags can provide an extra layer of security and peace of mind, they aren't the only way to keep children safe while visiting Disney. On top of the tech hack, things like establishing a meeting point and teaching children to identify key landmarks within the park are also crucial for family safety. That way, if you ever do get separated, your kids will know exactly where to go to reunite with you.
Along with that, another great tip is to teach your kids to recognize cast members (aka staff) and approach them — and only them — if they ever need help. The easiest way to distinguish between a cast member and a parkgoer is by their name tag. Generally, all Disney staff are required to wear an oval-shaped sparkly white badge on the left side of their chest with their name in the middle for easy recognition. For younger kids, it's even worth considering using temporary ID tattoos — SafetyTat is one company that has a great variety of these — or wristbands with your contact information on them.
At the end of the day, the goal while visiting Disney should be to have as much fun as possible while also staying and keeping others safe. Thankfully, with a little bit of extra planning and precautions in place, you and your family can focus on creating magical memories without the need for constant worry.