Love them or hate them?
More than a dozen thrill rides will debut at theme parks across the country this summer.
Recent innovations in roller coaster design add unique elements to traditional thrills and take the rider's experience to new levels. This year, new roller coasters incorporate 3-D visuals, intricate ride themes, new track technology, vehicles that move and spin in new ways, and more.
Some kids and their parents can't wait to get to the newest thrill; others won't want to go anywhere near them. Whatever your family's theme park style:
TAKE A VIRTUAL TOUR before you visit so you and the kids can decide where you want to go first. Everyone should get to choose at least one attraction each day.
CONSIDER front-of-the-line passes if your family is determined to ride the newest attractions to avoid inevitable long lines Here's what I wrote about that experience.
USE FREE PROGRAMS like Disney's new MagicBand. If you are staying at a Disney Resort hotel in Orlando, it allows you to customize your FastPass for a specific time at specific attractions before you set foot in the parks. Stay at a Universal Orlando resort and get front-of-the line access at most attractions.
DON'T TRY to sneak kids onto ride they aren't tall enough for or let them ride alone when they shouldn't. Those rules are in place to protect your kids. Seat a younger child on the inside and make sure they keep their hands and feet inside at all times. (Check out the website www.saferparks.org for more safety tips.)
NEVER FORCE a child to ride an attraction if they are frightened-even if you've waited in line. Never tease a child about their fear. You can always return later.
DIVIDE THE GROUP if some want to opt for the thrills and others don't.
PACK A CHANGE OF CLOTHES in case the kids get soaked on the water rides. Have them wear flip flops for those rides too.
EAT AFTER going on rides that might make them sick.
DESIGNATE A PLACE to meet if you get separated and make sure the kids know where it is. Make sure the kids know to seek out someone in a uniform who is working should they get lost.
LEAVE WHEN THE KIDS-and you-have had enough. There will always be another visit.
