5 Easy Tips for Disneyland Paris Character Meets with Toddlers
A note from Carrie-Anne:
You all know I’ve got two older boys, so when it comes to navigating character meets with toddlers, I knew I needed to call in someone who’s living that stage. Enter Daisy! She’s part of the Crepes & Castles crew and mum to an energetic little whose truly tested the limits of meet-and-greet patience. Daisy’s here to share her best tips from real-life toddler trips — think hugs, chaos, and the occasional biscuit bribe. Over to her…Skip to... reveal
I know what you’re thinking, but it’s just a person? Nope! Trust me, when you walk into Main Street and see Mickey Mouse waving at you (yes you!) from the train station, you will be drawn into the magic that is Disney. Seeing children (and adults) meeting their favourite Disney characters really does bring a sparkling tear to my eye, and I don’t think I will ever see magic quite like it again.
1. Character Meets with Toddlers – Where Do I Start?
If your little one is starting to recognise Disney characters and you’ve got a Disneyland Paris trip booked (yay!), my best advice is to start the prep at home. We watched parade videos on YouTube — especially Stars on Parade — and it helped so much.
The Mickey Mouse they see on a sticker or cartoon looks very different when he’s life-size and waving enthusiastically! Getting your toddler used to seeing the characters in full costume made the real-life experience far less overwhelming. It was also brilliant for helping my daughter warm up to the princesses — the real-life versions are nothing like the animated ones who burst into song in our living room!
2. Know the Schedule (and a Few Helpful Hacks)
Got a little one dreaming of hugging Minnie or waving to Olaf? Do a bit of research ahead of time. The Disneyland Paris app is your best friend — it shows who is meeting where and when. Some characters now need to be booked by Virtual Queue, so you’ll want to familiarise yourself with that before your trip (and trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!).
Quick tip: If you’re hoping to meet a Princess, the Princess Pavilion is lovely but a bit of a gamble — you only find out who you’re meeting once you’re at the front. Instead, character breakfasts are absolute gold with toddlers. You’re up early anyway, there’s no queueing, and everyone can fill up on croissants while waving to characters. Honestly, it’s one of my favourite ways to start the day. 👉 Read my top tips about the Princess Breakfast here.
3. Make the Queue Even More Fun for Little Ones
If you’re face a long queue for a character, deep breath — you’ve got this. Keeping a toddler happy in line is an Olympic sport, but I’ve got some winning tools. My top three lifesavers? Stretchy giraffes, a magnetic drawing board and thick Disney baby books.
They’re small enough to pop in your bag, but mighty when it comes to saving your sanity mid-wait.
Enjoy the Most Precious Moments
When we finally got to Pluto, my daughter ran straight in for a hug while I stood back, heart bursting. (The urge to run in for my own hug was very real.) Characters are amazing at reading the room — if your child prefers to stand back and wave or just give a high five, that’s perfectly fine.
And don’t worry if anyone gets starstruck — cast members are brilliant at keeping the moment light and moving. They’ll even take photos for you if you’d like to jump in the frame.
4. Make the Most of the Moment with a Personal Touch
If your toddler has a favourite — like Olaf — and you bring along a matching T-shirt or toy, the character will nearly always notice and respond. It makes the interaction feel extra personal, and your little one will be talking about it for days.
That said, don’t feel pressured to buy new things. Characters make a fuss over every guest, whether they’re dressed head-to-toe in Disney or just showing up with a big smile.
PRO TIP: Autograph Book Keepsakes
Not all toddlers want to pose or collect autographs. My 2 1/2 year daughter was far more interested in dancing with Pooh Bear than picking up a pen — and honestly, that was even more precious.
But for older kids, autograph books can be a huge hit. Here are some adorable options I’d recommend:✨
- I love this personalised autograph book, and handy so you don’t get sibling’s books mixed up!
- A cheap and cheerful autograph book as a great keepsake.
- For a bit of a plunge, try this personalised autograph book, which can also customised to Disneyland Paris.
If you want something even more special than a scribble in a book, check out my full list of creative autograph collecting alternatives. There are so many fun ways to mark the moment — especially with toddlers who’d rather twirl than hold a pen!
👋 5. Don’t Underestimate the Power of a Wave
I thought we’d spend half our trip queueing for character meets — but actually, some of our best moments happened at a distance.
Early in the day, you’ll often see characters waving from the train station balcony at Disneyland Park. One morning, Minnie spotted my daughter in her tiny Minnie Ears, pointed, drew a heart in the air, and blew her a kiss. That was it — she was convinced Minnie loved her, and told everyone she saw for the rest of the day. It was honestly the sweetest moment, and I may have had a little cry.
Characters also pop up in surprise locations — especially between It’s a Small World and the Princess Pavilion — so keep your eyes peeled. An unexpected wave or blown kiss can be just as exciting as a full-on cuddle, and there’s no queue required.
Final Tip on Disney Character Meets with Toddlers
If you’re nodding along and thinking, yes please, more of this kind of help, then don’t miss the Crepes & Castles Disneyland Paris Planning Guide! It’s full of practical advice, easy-to-follow itineraries (even with a pram in tow), and all the little things that make a big difference on the day.
Whether your toddler is all about the hugs or prefers a shy little wave from afar, character meets at Disneyland Paris can be truly unforgettable. Go at their pace, soak up the joy, and don’t forget — the best moments are often the ones you didn’t plan.
I now need to go back for another cuddle! 🥰
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