During his work hours, Justin Chavez, JD ’18, spends his time in the Atlanta office of a large national law firm, focusing on health-care privacy, technology, telehealth and regulatory law. But in his off hours, he transforms into “The Disney World Dad,” helping new Disney-goers with young children navigate the theme parks with ease. His blog, newsletter and social media accounts provide travel tips and news about all things Disney, like upcoming park improvements and movie releases.
Disney theme parks draw millions of visitors annually, and Disney influencers have become trusted sources of information for legions of families. By joining this cultural trend, Chavez finds a way to connect with his three young kids and spark his creativity.
I’ve always been a theme park enthusiast. But growing up, I was unable to go for financial reasons. Before we got married, my wife and I decided to take a “mini-moon.” A co-worker who was a big Disney-head recommended we go to Disney World in Orlando. He said there was plenty to do without kids. That was the trip that changed it all for me. In the airport on the way home, I created an Instagram account and posted a picture of Cinderella Castle. It took off from there. The Disney World Dad blog was born.
There’s always been a creative side within me, and that manifests in writing. In addition to writing the Disney World Dad blog, I’m working on lots of fiction. I finished my first novel recently, and I have a few other works in progress. I feel like I’m flourishing creatively right now. Working on the blog lets me write and be creative and be part of a larger community. It’s important to have creative endeavors along with your paid work. Everyone needs a hobby or a creative outlet.
The blog is about successfully managing Disney World with kids. It’s difficult, but it certainly can be done. Even though Disney parks feature kids’ movies and characters, some parents worry these places aren’t truly family friendly and may not be an enjoyable vacation. But I think those worries are overblown. Kids’ wants and needs are considered in a way that they aren’t in other places.
My best advice to someone going to Disney World with kids for the first time is to do the research and make a plan. Make your plan be a framework that’s flexible, and you’ll have a good time. People go in not doing the work because it takes a long time to do all the research. They give it a cursory glance. Then they get to the park, and they want to do everything they’ve seen on TV or Instagram. And they get upset when that doesn’t happen. You need a good mix between planning and flexibility. That’s the key to having a good trip.
