Taking a tour of your kids’ favorite amusement parks this summer? Kids are fearless, especially when rollercoasters and thrill rides are on the agenda. But with a little planning, a day at the amusement park can be a safe family outing without the stress. Here are some matters to consider:
· Locate the park’s Lost and Found for a few drills to get your family comfortable with what to do if they’re lost.
· If your kids aren’t at the age where they’re completely embarrassed by you, dress the family in matching outfits or T-shirts so you can spot them quickly in a crowd.
· Heat causes more injury at theme parks than all the world’s rollercoasters combined. Keep hydrated, lather up with sunscreen, and stay in the shade or try water rides to prevent heat exhaustion. |
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· Check the amusement park’s website for each ride’s height or weight requirements to prevent kids’ disappointment at being turned away. Before your trip, make sure everyone knows the rules of the park, to always follow instructions, and to keep hands and legs inside the rides at all times.
· Children who may get lost can wear “Tattoos With a Purpose.” These kid-friendly temporary tattoos fix to their arm with water, and leave room for contact info directly on the fun designs. A harness allows young ones a little roaming, but without straying far from the group. A fanny pack is handy to tuck away your harness and other dangling items during rides.
· Many theme parks now rent or sell two-way radios to keep families connected. They usually work up to a two-mile radius and are easily programmed. But if you have chatty teens, you might never get through to lost kids!
SUSAN FINCH is associate editor of Family Travel Forum, Inc., www.familytravelforum.com. Tattoos with a Purpose: www.tattooswithapurpose.com.
