Speech and Theme Parks

Luke had his evaluation with Infants and Toddlers this morning. The short is that he is completely normal and is not eligible for any services. I am glad that he is developmentally on target, but I was surprised when she said his language is where it should be for a 2-year-old. Regardless, it is good news. Although, I am sad that he won't get the point that would help him get a spot in public Pre-K (the only benefit I can see of having a child who is not quite where they should be).

In other news, we are theme park season pass holders again! But, not for Kings Dominion. 2015 was the Summer of Kings Dominion. 2016 will be the Season of Six Flags. We decided it would be good to change things up a bit. I was afraid we would get sick of KD if we spent another summer visiting. But, we still wanted another fun option when looking for summer activities. Six Flags fit the bill. This year they are having a Christmas event so we figure we will easily be able to go enough times get our money's worth.

We had our first visit over the weekend. The good thing about low expectations is they are easy to exceed. Granted, I don't think many visits can top this one. The weather was slightly cold, which meant the park was virtually empty. We didn't have to wait in line for any rides. Everything was clean and appeared well-maintained and the employees were friendly and helpful. What more can you ask for? Well, running rides would be nice. Three of the main roller coasters were closed due to "wind". However, it was not at all windy while we were there, under 5mph according to weather.com. Fortunately, the kid rides were all working and the little ones had a great time.

Thomas and I rode one of their big coasters, the Batwing (separately, we didn't leave the kids unattended). Jack was going to ride but changed his mind when he saw that they lay you flat on your back. Thank goodness he did! At points during the ride you are on your back and then you flip to your stomach to give you the sensation of flying. But, you are relying completely on your restraint to support you. It was very unnerving. I felt like I was sloshing all over the place and I am a giant compared to Jack! I would have spent the entire ride terrified he was going to fly out. It was good to experience, but I doubt I will ride again. Thomas felt the same way.

Thomas and Jack went on the two wooden coasters and said they were really good. They said both felt more intense than the wooden coasters at KD. KD has 4 wooden coasters and 5 metal. Six Flags has 2 wooden and 5 metal. So, fairly comparable in the area.

While off riding coasters with his dad, Jack ran into these guys.

Six Flags has two kids areas and I would guess about the same number of kid rides (probably 20) as KD, but not as many that Luke could ride. He got a little frustrated at some of the things he wasn't allowed on. Maybe he will reach 36" by the time the season ends, which would open up a lot of things for him. Six Flags also had 2 play areas. One was really cool; it was fully enclosed and had lots of soft balls and shooters. It also had slides and other activities. I think the kids could have spent hours in there. Although, maybe it wouldn't be so fun if it was crowded.

Of course there was a carousel.

The kids loved the giant water slide. We didn't get wet, but we sure got dizzy. I rode once and Thomas rode once. Next time, we're sending the kids alone.

Our sweet, sweet boys.

And, the lovely girls.

This was one of those rides where Luke didn't understand why he couldn't go too.

Anna using the force to make the balls stay in the air.

Finally, the kiddy coaster. Right up Kara's alley. The first time it went around, she held on tight, the next time, she put her hands in the air. The third time she called out to us, "can we do it again?"

Here are what I see as the pros: SF is closer, it took us just over an hour to get there and the drive was pretty pleasant.  Also, it was cheaper. We got season passes with the food plan for about $200 less than it would have cost at KD. And, the food plan includes unlimited soft drinks and a snack in addition to lunch and dinner.

The cons: I worry what it will be like when it is crowded. It is much smaller (area wise) than KD. Also, apparently there is a problem with line-jumpers. There are notices everywhere and I was asked to fill out a survey on how they handled said jumpers (not an issue when we were there since the crowds were so light). It is Prince George's County, which doesn't have the greatest reputation for safety, although the park itself seemed to be in a very nice area.

All in all, I am confident we will go enough to get our money's worth. The kids all thought it was great and worst case scenario is that we stay away in late June, July and August and appreciate KD more next year.

Oh, one other benefit is that there are 4 different times when we can bring a friend free. On those days, we can get in up to 5 people for free. So, if you have any interest in checking it out--let me know! Priority will be given to anyone who actually reads my blog ;)

And, in closing, a picture of Luke's feet. By Luke.