One of the features of Aulani being a Disney Resort are the Disney characters. Characters wander the grounds giving out high fives. Characters are scheduled to take photos with guests throughout the day. There is a character breakfast where Minnie and Pluto come out for some photos and some dancing during the meal. A huge perk is the included Auntie’s Beach Club where kids three and older (and potty trained) get to watch movies, do crafts, play video games and toys while supervised by resort staff. So basically babysitting and the parents get a break.
Much of these fun things are lot upon our kids unfortunately, with a sole exception. We have taken advantage of several photos with Moana, Sierra’s “best friend.” Otherwise, Sierra is afraid of all other mascots. She screams when Stitch is nearby and hides her head in our shoulders for all the rest. I think she might like Minnie Mouse. Everett has no interest in doing activities without his parents. We have been able to drop off Everett a couple of times so far at Auntie’s but not without several phone calls learning us know that Everett is ready to be picked up. When I go to pick him up, he is usually preoccupied with a craft or watching a movie. It is similar to the day home or preschool, but unlike those, the staff don’t know to redirect or distract him. Sierra of course is too young to go to Auntie’s although, she is more independent in play than Everett, even at two years of age compared to Everett even at four.
One time, we dropped Everett off and we took some photos and a photo booth with Sierra. Everett came up on these and after inspecting the shots for a few minutes, asks “Where’s Everett?”
Poor Everett 🙁 He gets “dropped off” like he’s not part of the family vacation. But in fact, maybe one day he’ll appreciate how lucky he is. But at this point in life and age, whenever he’s not with one of us, he feels abandoned.
At the character breakfast, Gabriella is having a great party, while Everett basically… well here’s the video.
