Today we went to Adventure Island. Had to get out of the house for a little while, just too much going on and friends were going, so we joined them. Busch Gardens/Adventure Island have some great deals running for FL residents! My husband has the premier pass which I highly recommend at least one member of the family have. Here is why: It gives 10% off anything in the park, but more importantly it gives you free parking. Parking is a killer at amusement parks now and if you live close it is definitely worth spending an extra $30 if you think you will go more than 3 times in the year.

Our daughter can swim as those who follow my hubs know. Swimming is one of those vital skills in my opinion. This gave her a chance to put those to use and have a blast! I cannot tell you how many times we were stopped, simply because people can't believe she is not afraid of anything.

Now for the teachable moments. It seems our society is digressing quickly. I cannot tell you how many people tried to "jump" her in line, or push her out of the way. The amazing part to me is that the parents were no where to be seen, much less step in. So if you do go, make sure to stay with your children! I know that children will try, that is normal, but it is up to us as parents to let them know what is acceptable and what is not.

The park itself is wonderful. There are plenty of activities for children of all ages (including myself and my 33 year old husband). There are rides where you can race, rides where you can go as a group, wave pools, and more things that spray and shoot than I can count!

A few tips if you have a young child would be the following.

1. Print a map before you go. Look at all requirements and mark what each child can do. Then you know where to go when you get to the park and don't wait for something they can't get on.

2. If your child is like mine and is a strong swimmer, don't break the rules, but if you talk to the guards they often will let a couple of inches slide and let them get on the rides anyway. If you do this, make sure you have a party of 3 or more. One person goes down first. Then the child can go down the SAME slide so the first of your party is waiting for them at the bottom. This allows one person to stay up top and help them get on and get going while knowing they are going to be safe while you wait your turn to go after them.

3. Take your own food and drink. As long as you don't have glass you are OK and it is allowed.

4. If you can afford it (we can't, but our friends could), a cabana is wonderful. The area is secure, and watched so your things are safe. The area is nice, secluded and safe. All good things.

The park can be a lot of fun, but make sure that you watch your children. Put them in bright suits, set a place to meet up if you get separated, and then let them be kids. Be a kid yourself, cheer for them, let them know you are proud of them and let them enjoy the time!