Family, travel, mom blog | Theme Park Mom (Leigh Caldwell)

As many of you know, I hosted a Hebrew National Picnics With a Purpose this past weekend in Orlando. My chosen purpose for the picnic was Give Kids the World. This charity does amazing work with sick kids — bringing them to Central Florida for an unforgettable family trip.

My friend Jenn of Mommy Needs Coffee shot this video interview during the picnic with John Frost, a representative from Give Kids the World. John gives a great summary of the magical things that happen everyday at the Give Kids the World Village in Kissimmee:

I hope you’ll take some time to look at the Give Kids the World Web site. There are plenty of opportunities to help, both big and small.

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Universal Orlando has released an update on its Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit rollercoaster, which is set to open this summer, though a date has still not been confirmed.

I like the idea of the coaster’s interactive elements — you get to choose the musical genre that’s playing during your ride on the coaster, and you can buy a video of the experience. And the resort is touting some “first-ever” maneuvers, including a section of the track in the shape of a treble clef.

Stay tuned! We’ll keep you posted on when this new coaster will be open.

Are you freaked out about swine flu? Does the thought of going to a theme park where your kids touch everything scare you?

I was in Animal Kingdom yesterday when I saw a WFTV report that a Walt Disney World guest was being tested for the flu strain. So far, there are still no confirmed cases in Central Florida, but it’s understandable that moms would be concerned.

In fact, we should be concerned about germs anytime we’re in a theme park. Rides usually involve bars that you grab and brace yourself on. And guess what? Seconds before you grabbed that bar, someone else was gripping it. (more…)

As part of the Kidani Village expansion of Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, diners are treated to a new restaurant - Sanaa.

The newest restaurant at Walt Disney World resort opens Friday, May 1. Disney says Sanaa (pronounced Sah-NAH) reflects “the art of African cooking with Indian flavors.”

Orlando food blogger Scott Joseph has the menus for the new dining experience. I’m excited to try some of the appetizers, including pulled duck with red curry sauce and potato and pea samosas. And my first entree will be from the Tandoor oven. The Sanaa kids menu also features ethnic flavors, including tandoori chicken breast or a grilled fish of the day over whole-grain pilaf. But kids can also choose old stand-bys, such as  cheeseburgers and cheese pizza. Which would your kids order? (more…)