Do You "Sneak" Your 3 Year Old In?

Nope, never did. As soon as my daughter wasn't free at Disneyland I paid full pop for the annual pass. I only did trips like this when I could afford it and I prefer to tell the truth.

No. I couldn't. I cannot lie. Seriously! I just can't. It ALWAYS comes back around to me if I do. I learned when I was 19. I lied and told my boss that I couldn't come in b/c my kid was really sick. The next day, she was really sick. I lied once about my car breaking down and the same week, my car broke down.

My young daughter has been asking for a piano that I cannot afford, however I am not going to steal one for her just because she wants it.

"A persons true character is based on their behaviors, even when no one is looking. "

Our daughter learned this when she was in second grade.

You can stay for free with relatives. You have a free adult pass.

Pretty great for you, right?

So why go that extra mile to be dishonest just to save a little more dough? You're already saving money with freebies you're fortunate to have. If the cost of your daughter's honest admission would push you over the edge so you could not afford to go at all, then you should not be making this trip or promising her things you cannot afford. "She has been asking to go these places" is not a justification for teaching her it's OK to lie.

As for the many folks who posted that they do this all the time: Gee, thanks for making admissions to places like these more expensive for the rest of us. If everyone figures a little sneaking and shaving and lying is OK, the result is that places will jack up prices to cover for the families who are not paying their full share.

Wow. I am so surprised at the answers below. I had no idea.

We never "sneak" anyone in to any park. For us, it's a matter of principal and honesty. We want our kids ethical, so we lead by example. Those are the rules of those establishments, so we abide by them. Then parents wonder why their kids lie to them and others.

The cost of a ticket is worth teaching our kids to lie when it serves them? Even a three year old can figure that out. I think the cost of the ticket is worth my character. Anyone can JUSTIFY anything if they are willing to lower their standards.

Money is NEVER tight enough to lie. Look for coupons online, etc....or don't go. Or pack lunches and spend that money on a ticket. You'll feel better about yourself AND you are teaching your child a lifelong lesson.

Sorry, no blessings from me, my child. I would not find it acceptable to ignore the ethical considerations just because I don't have the money or it's otherwise inconvenient to be honest.

Someday your child is going to tell you a lie because it just doesn't work for her to tell the truth. How are you going to feel about that? How will you correct her if she's seen you sliding past the rules when you don't want to follow them?

No. We are not dishonest and we strive to model behavior we prefer our daughter to have.

If money is tight, save up and go another time. Don't lie about it.

If you tell your child to Shh and say she's 2 instead of 3 don't be surprised when the child is preteen + and lies to you because you set the example that it's ok.

Hi D., Teaching your children how to be deceitful at a young age is not good parenting, and it is stealing. I am really concerned of how many parents will lie and steal right in front of their kids, you all should be ashamed of youurselves, if you are not, you have a more serious problem. J.

nope...we are no better than any other family that has to pay for their kids to go places. i wouldnt want to lie just to save a few bucks, sets a bad example for the kids plus it's just plain wrong.

not judging? You realize you are asking us if it is OK if you lie? Bad momma.

Nope, never. A three year old won't know what's going on, but I don't like being dishonest and always want to set a good example for my kids. If money were that tight, we wouldn't go.

Added...

WOW!!!! I'm shocked at these answers and that many of them are comments like...Yes, sneak the child in because their prices are ridiculous and your kid probably is too small to go on the rides anyway.
Just wondering how these reasons justify sneaking in? Yes, I agree that admission prices are high. THAT'S LIFE, AND THAT'S THE WAY IT GOES!!! Ever heard of inflation!?!?! When I shop, I feel many items I want are ridiculously expensive...doesn't mean I steal them.

no I have not done that before. I don't think I could lie about something like that. If my kids heard me, I would feel just awful. And they WOULD question me about it. My son just turned 4 in July. We have a pizza place near by that is all you can eat buffet. Kids aged 3 and under are only $3. We went there for dinner tonight and they asked me his age. I just said "he just turned 4 last month". The cashier said "oh that's ok, I'll still give you the deal to help you out". It was so nice! He is small for his age and could totally pass for a 3 year old, but I don't want to lie and teach my kids that it's ok to lie.

I would certainly not do this as it would be stealing.

If you think its ok to lie and cheat,, in front of your daughter,, you go right ahead. If so much of this trip is free, and you still cant afford to do the right thing, why in the world would you even consider going and spending more money on the food and gas to get there? Maybe you should explain to her that sometimes when you dont have the money, you cant do things that cost too much. No kid will die from not getting to go see legoland and seaworld. It just sets a bad example. I wouldnt do it. Hope you can come up with a cheaper solution for a great time with her instead.

I teach my kids' not to lie. Here's the conundrum: If you say "2 adults" and the facility asks--and they likely will--the age of your child and you lie, she will get "that" message. To me, teaching our kids to have "integrity" is a valuable message that supersedes a day of fun that is done by cheating/lying.

If you can't afford it, you don't go. But if you want to go on the cheap, buy your tickets off Craigslist or call the places to see if they have coupons/specials going on.

It's just hard for me to tell my kids "not to lie" if I am doing it too...for whatever reason. And make no mistake, your daughter will lie to you sometime, and you will have to explain to her why it's wrong, all the while ignoring your own message.

Mine might not be the most "popular" answer but I'm a firm believer in modeling the very behavior I want my children to emulate.

Nope, because with a verbal three year old... You run the risk of her insisting she's three right after you lie and say she's two. They will ask at the gate so your child will hear. And who wants to have to coach their child in advance on how to lie or explain why it's ok for mommy to lie? What an awful example to set.

I am shocked and saddened by the number of people who would do this. It's not about judgement--- it's about right and wrong. Don't "judge" me for stealing that pack of gum from the 7 11... don't "judge" me for stealing that tshirt from the store... don't "judge" me for stealing that tv/car/financial investment.

Stealing is a criminal act as laid out by the laws of our government. If you don't like that, move to a different country. This is a law we are expected to abide by.
Going into a theme park and lying about your child's age is stealing the price of the ticket, whether you like it or not. It just is. The theme park has set rules for ages/price of tickets and by going into their establishment you are agreeing to abide by their rules. To do otherwise is stealing. If you don't like their rules or think they are too expensive, then don't go. When is stealing from a big corporation ok just because they have alot of money? If we teach our children to justify something like this, we shouldn't be surprised when they give us a very good explanation to "justify" something else (selling drugs, stealing cars, evading taxes) later in their lives.

Conscience is IMPORTANT. You have to instill a sense of conscience in your kids, and if they don't see one in you, they won't have one. This isn't an attack on the poster as I believe you are "torn" about it and wanting opinions. But to all the people that said "hell ya" because the ticket is expensive and the child won't remember it anyways... you are missing the point. It's simply right vs. wrong. And this is wrong.

By the way. It IS different than lying about your weight because you aren't stealing money from someone else because you lied about your weight.

Something to consider for those that think this isn't a big deal.
My son was born this year, just HOURS after New Years. He was born at home without a doctor. We were hoping he would arrive by dec. 31st, 2010 so we could claim him on last year's taxes. TECHNICALLY, I could have easily "fugdged" his birthdate so that we received $1000+ tax deduction this year. It would have helped us financially ALOT. Besides, what the difference of a couple of hours???? Well, I'll tell you what the difference is: honesty, dignity, and the knowledge of doing the right thing. Would anyone have ever known besides my family? Probably not. But it would plague me every birthday of my son's life entire life.

This is going to sound a bit extreme but I think it is appropriate to the discussion. DO THE RIGHT THING. YOUR CHILDREN ARE WATCHING. THEY ARE THE NEXT LEADERS OF OUR COUNTRY.

I don't understand how you can ask an ethical question and then ask for people not to judge...

I would NEVER lie about my child's age. If Legoland and Seaworld decide on a certain price for your child, your choice is to either pay that price or not to go. If you lie about your child's age that is stealing. You aren't just paying for the rides you realize... at Seaworld they have live animal shows. Do you think those things are cheap? Or that your three year old won't enjoy them because she is too young? They have to feed those whales, dolphins and other sea animals, and that is NOT cheap!

It is very sad hearing how many women believe that stealing is ok and even worse the ones who are teaching their kids to lie... The one's son who said something like "I'm 3 but at Disneyworld I'm 2"... What a horrible message to send your child. Remember, we are not raising children, we are raising future adults.

I think Leigh R. answered this question perfectly. I will say, however, that my husband ACCIDENTALLY did this at the zoo when my son had just turned 3 (like the week prior to DH taking DS). We buy zoo memberships for us and they weren't expired yet and had always taken our son to the zoo. We had always planned when he turned 3 to buy him a koala membership. Like I said, when he turned 3 our memberships weren't yet expired so my husband didn't even think about it and they just walked right in. When he told me later, I told him that our son isn't supposed to be free anymore and went ahead and renewed our membership and added on our son.

So, no. I understand the desire to save money and I'm not judging you for considering it, but lie'ing to get into a fun place for free is not acceptable behavior and responsible adults should know better and teach their children these lessons. There are a lot of places I really want to go, but can't afford to go - I'm not going to steal money from someone to do it and lie'ing to get in free is the same as stealing that money from these places.

My mom told a story of us all going to a buffet with my cousins and aunt/uncle. I think 3 and under was free, but when they said "how old is he?" my aunt just said "he's free" and he yelled "I'm not free, I'm four!" and then "OWWWW, YOU KICKED ME!" My mom still laughs at this, 30 years later. How humiliating would that be?
And then there's the more scary option: telling your daughter that you're going to lie and to go with it? Are you kidding me? My blood pressure went up just typing it.....
And btw: Sea World is a lot of fun! Go there. I didn't bother taking my very young children to parks that had rides he couldn't go on. Not just for the price, but also because it's no fun saying "No you're not big enough" 5000 times in a day.
TF is absolutely right and we all need to keep that in mind as we parent. We are teaching them how to act, and we need to choose our actions based on what we want THEM doing to US when they become teens and adults. How can you sneak, or tell "little" lies to benefit yourself in front of your children, knowing they will grow up thinking "Oh, but to keep out of trouble....or to make it easier.....I can lie about that boy's age......or tell a little lie about where I'm going.....". No thanks. Yuck!

If you can't afford it, then you shouldn't go. My children (7 and 8) have been asking to go to Paris. I tell them, just because you want something, doesn't mean you get to have it.

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I bet she'll rat you out!
And if $$ is that tight--skip it. Not worth the drama.
I've always followed the age restrictions for places like that.

Not only NO but HELL NO!!!

Why would I want to teach my child it's OKAY to lie, steal and cheat?!?! ARE YOU TOTALLY DERANGED?!

People seem to think kids aren't paying attention - but they are...you are teaching your daughter it's OKAY to lie...so is it? is it okay for her to sneak her hand into the cookie jar and tell you she didn't? She will HEAR you tell the attendant she's only 2 - what if she speaks up and says NO MOMMY I'M THREE?!?! How fricking embarrassed would you be then? Wait...you might not be. Seriously...

You are saving money by being able to stay for free with relatives...suck it up girl and PAY HER WAY!!! Honesty and integrity mean more than saving money...if you can't afford her ticket - then you shouldn't be going...if you can't afford this vacation - you should NOT be going. PERIOD.

I think that lying for any reason is setting a bad example for our children. It is our job to teach them to be good, honest, kind, and productive adults. In order to do that we must be all those things, and lying does not fit into that ANYWHERE. If I can't afford to pay for my child, than we just would not go.

No. I don't lie, cheat, and steal.

No, I would never do that. To me, that is lying and stealing. It is not ok to lie and steal an admission ticket because "money is tight." I don't see "sneaking a 3 year old in" as any different than sneaking something off a store shelf without paying for it. You have to PAY to experience being in the theme park, same as you pay for any tangible thing. If you don't think the admission price set by the park is fair for your child (and I can understand this is very true for some kids for a lot of reasons), or if you can't afford it, I would just not take her. Personally, if "money was tight" I'd pick just one theme park, not both, and explain honestly to my DD that admission is very expensive, so we are going to choose just one park, rather than have her watch me lie to steal an admission just because I may be able to get away with it.

I think Leigh said it well. You already have a free adult pass etc. I didn't sneak my kids in bc I know that type of behavior ends up costing everyone else more money bc places have to make money to stay in business. And I don't think I'm more special than everyone else. If I don't like the fees a place charges, I don't go.

Another vote for Not to lie. Lead by example.

Oh for crying out loud - I consider myself a person with very high morals and I'd definitely try to pass my child for the 'younger' age as long as I possibly could. There will come a time when you will pay full price for everything, and I'm sure you'll spend plenty of money inside the park. If it doesn't bother you, don't let other people's opinions sway you. Think of it as a coupon. And if they do 'catch' you, what's the worse that's going to happen? They're going to ask you to produce a birth certificate or some other proof of age because your daughter simply looks more than 2 months over the age limit?

Yep, I've done it! I had a friend ask my son how old he was, and he told her "I'm 3, but at Disneyland I'm 2" :)

Sorry. I can never do it - I feel guilty even thinking about doing it. However, there HAVE been times when my 12 yo has gotten in for the lesser price because whomever was serving us just assumed he was under 12. (He is very small for his age.) And - because of the damn guilt - I've spoken up and said, "Oh, he's 12 now." But they just let it go, anyway. Probably they don't want to have to deal with re-doing the transaction or they figure it was their mistake. So, then I accept it and keep on moving before they change their mind! : )

Do what your heart tells you to do.
Blessings.

yup and I would do it again. Does it make me a bad person as a whole, nope. Every body who is living or has lived has told more than one white lie in thier life and survived. Its up to you on what you want to do, nobody is going to know the trueth but you. Your dd probably wont even be listening when you pay.. if your worried that she will be well then give her a pamphlet or something to keep her attention off of you while you pay. Enjoy and don't give it a second thought.

No, I never have.
It's dishonest.
If money is that tight, maybe you should only go to one place and not the other.

Haha, I'm not even reading any responses because I can only imagine what some of them will say. I don't feel like rolling my eyes this early in the morning ;-)

I would definitely sneak her in!! Don't even say anything. Just say "Two adults please"

I can't say I haven't been tempted! But I have not done this. If you haven't gone yet, I recommend telling the ticket agent your daughter's real age, saying she just turned 3 in June. Then ask if she has to pay the child's price, or is she free? Let the worker determine it. You may be surprised. Honesty is the best policy - and this situation is very different from talking about Santa, Easter Bunny, dying your hair, etc. (If you can't differentiate, then you've got bigger problems!) This isn't about "being a saint," it's about having integrity. And teaching your child to have integrity. Integrity is doing the right thing, no matter what the circumstances. I totally understand about money being tight. We've put off Disneyland for the past 4 years because money is tight. But are you really willing to put a price tag on your integrity? Ok, I'll get off my soap box...back to being surprised :) My oldest son was (and still is) small for his age and I could have easily gotten him in free when younger if I wanted to. Many places assumed he was in the free age range, and would say he's free when I tried to buy a child's ticket. I would point out he was actually over the age limit, but many places said they still wouldn't charge me. Go in assuming you'll pay for her ticket, put the facts out there, and I hope you'll get a nice surprise!

Ive never had this opportunity because my kids are wayy too tall to fit in younger categories. but i do sneak healthy snacks into the movie theater inside my purse, and my oldest knows this.

Im not ashamed to say it either.

nah, I never have. Once my son has hit the age that we have to pay, we just pay. It never occured to me honestly. Sometimes like at a buffet, you know they don't eat much, but usually over 3 you gotta pay, so we just pay. I think you should pay personally bc it will be one less thing to worry over while you are there having fun ;)

Heck yes. Anyone say lap baby on a plane? Lap baby! At that age it's so hard to determine age especially when it's someone who doesn't have kids taking the money.. and ethics or not seriously, what expenses do a 3 year old incur that a 2 year old can't?? They are the one's being @sses ethically for charging for a 3 year old to go to sea world anyway! And moms can turn their noses up all they want but paying 500 for a plane ticket for a kid with NO extra luggage who will just sit on our laps the entire time anyway? That's just retarded. And if the airline cared so much they'd ask for a birth certificate (which they don't). Do what you can to save money, plus what really will that 3 year old be doing?

Hehehe. Yes, I have no problem letting her slide! You'll make up for it in food and drink purchases! Besides, children under 5 should be free since they won't remember it before then, anyway!

OMG! 87 RESPONSES!! Didn't read any of them, but...

Hell YEAH I'd sneak that child in!!

You are asking us if it's ok to lie, but asking us not to judge?

I personally can't imagine making that sort of move in front of my kids. If you can't afford to pay for everyone, wait until you can.

I do not understand the "great" mothers who seem proud of doing this. I guess they don't just lie to others.

For real moms? My goodness - no, it is not right to lie, cheat, or steal. But a 3 year old is not going to ride the ticket's price worth of rides. And you are only a few weeks out...it's not like it is 2 years later and you are doing it. My goodness. Do what you feel is right :). I've never done this for such an expensive thing, but I've done it at CiCi's to get my now 4 year old the younger price, when he doesn't eat as much as an adult would.

If you think it is ok to lie and steal then I would say yes, otherwise just pay the price. If money is tight save one for another time. We never did. I would not feel right if we had.

Gosh, D. B. you were thrown to the wolves with some of these posts. I mean you just asked a question.

Once in the local paper a lady saw a woman buying a cake with her food stamps, so ranted about it in an editorial. The woman who bought the cake responded to the article. She stated that she DID buy her child a birthday cake with her food stamps. That every child deserves a birthday cake and that her child was in the hospital and it was it's last birthday. My point is we shouldn't be too quick to judge.

That being said, I can see that you just want to take your daughter to have a good time. I don't know what admission is, but it sucks when you pay so much to have the kid sit in a stroller the whole time. I used to lie about my son being 2 when he was really 3. In my situation he was really petite and non verbal and couldn't walk. (developmental delays) So I figured if he looked and acted like he was 2 or maybe even less why pay full price so he can sit in the stroller the whole time? Now that he can walk and talk I don't lie about his age since now he knows what's going on. I do avoid buffets since he is not worth taking to them, but I'm not worth it at a buffet either!

The answers to both of your questions will of course be "Yes" - people have "snuck" in their children and have been questioned. Are you really just asking us the best way to 'get away with it'? Or how many times have we been caught & what did we do when that happened? If so - I can't help you with those questions. Some people will agree you are justified in doing it, others (like me) will not.

NO, I've never done this for all of the reasons that have already been mentioned by others. Anyone can justify any bad behavior - but that still never makes it right. I have several formerly close friends that lie constantly now for freebies and discounts (and it started with things like this). Their lack of morals ruined many of their friendships. It also makes it unbearable sometimes to be around their children, because they don't think the rules apply to them either (even at age 3). We live in a society full of "entitlement-minded people" and it always begins somewhere. Can you do it? Yes. Should you do it? No. There are LOTS of things we can do, but should we do them? No.

I'm far from perfect, but in my experience I've learned that teaching your children good morals starts young and it really is worth every penny. I know you see this situation is a small deception, but it will be even easier to lie next time when your daughter is old enough to realize it. **When in doubt, don't - at least that's why I teach my children**

My DD is only a baby, but I would totally do it! Save your money, especially in this economy. The park isn't gonna lose any money bc of you. Have Fun!

so much for not judging... I don't know what I'd do, but I'd be pretty bummed if I paid full price and then my child could only enjoy two rides!

ETA: wow, there's a lot of people here who don't lie! Does this mean that their four year olds are the ones who tell my four year old that Santa Claus isn't real?

I "sneak" my 3 yr old into Kings Island and the Beach Water park here, weekly! It doesn't make me feel bad. He has been 3 since March, and no one has looked twice at him.

The ONLY thing you're risking is if you say "she turns 3 September 15th, and then your daughter speaks up and says "NO! I am 3 Mommy!"

Oh, I'm totally guilty of this. My daughter's age can be pretty flexible given the situation and/or cost of admission ;-)

I think "white lies" depend on the intent...

If your child really isn't going to get much out of it and you're going for your family/bigger kids, then I think it's fine.

Yes, I too bring in my own snacks to a movie theater - why? Because I hate the junk they serve and don't buy it anyway.

Yes, I would put up 5 people in a hotel room that says max 4 because
who cares if we make beds on the floor for the kids? It's not like I'm trying to fit two FAMILIES in there.

If your 3 yr old is going to be running around and enjoying the activities, then I think you should pay. If you can't afford to go, then maybe you shouldn't. Better for your child to learn now about "saving" for what you want or not getting everything she asks for.

Next time, since money is tight, plan on going on the "free weekends" or before age is an issue. There are other ways to stretch your money without having to lie.

I have been to legoland with my 3 year old and we only managed to get on two rides total. My brother took us. We waited for 45 minutes just to get on one ride!!! Every other ride is too much for a three year old. Total rip off for a 3 year old that can only get on two rides and food is REALLY expensive. I just wanted to give you what its really like at Legoland for 3 year old. I mean, not to be anti-legoland, but they would have to pay me to go again. just sayin.

When we went to SW this summer, they asked my kids their names and how old they were. I don't know if that is their standard policy, but it seemed pretty routine when they were talking to us. They didn't make it seem like they were looking for information, but I'm sure that is the intent.

If they ask how old she is, then tell them that she just turned 3. If they just look at her and assume that she's under 3... Well, then... Let them assume :)

She probably won't be able to go on the rides I'd go to a regular aquarium and take her to those places when she's older.

I dont know....I would if she just turned 3. Yea, theres the ethical issue, which leads to Burger King that has the free ticket for a child with a paid adult. Problem Solved! You just purchase any one thing from Burger King and they will give you a coupon that says if you purchase an adult ticket your child will get in FREE!!

Hope this Helped and have fun!!

I'm always too scared to try. :) Plus my son is really tall for his age so I already get looks when I give his actual age. In your case, I would be honest and try to save some $ by planning to eat PB&J for a meal rather than eating out on your vacation.

Honestly? I don't know. Probably not.
See if you can get coupons/discounts. Pack up lunch, snacks and drinks and try saving some money there.
I am not trying to sound like a saint, or imply that I've never 'lied' in my entire life, nor do I believe anyone who claims to be the most honest person in the world really is one. Still, I understand the ticket price for your daughter alone would go to $150 or so, but would you really want to sneak in, and feel guilty about not paying so much money, for the rest of your whole trip?
Maybe, this is going to be your one big trip that you've been trying to save for in a long time. Maybe this is your only free-time for the next few years to come, and maybe your wish to give your daughter both these experiences is very strong. Maybe $150 does make a big difference to you.
I wouldn't want to judge you or your motives in contemplating this. Ultimately, its your decision, and you know what you will do or will not do. So, in all, I hope you and your family enjoy your vacation!!

No, I haven't done that. I remember my mother shoving me under the turnstile in the subway when i was definitely older than six and I hated it

I'm no saint, but personally, I wouldn't. While I think it's ok to stretch the truth (my mom used to *literally* jump into the empty tub fully clothed when someone she didn't want to talk to would call or come over; then I could HONESTLY say "she's in the tub" LOL), I wouldn't outright lie and say she's younger than she is.

It sets a bad precedent for your daughter and it really is the same as stealing - you're just stealing the experience, not a physical object.

My friend does this all the time at Disneyland. Her kid is 4 I think, but she just puts him in the stroller and has never been questioned. If she is paying close to 100 for each ticket, I don't see why not! =)

i did it until my daughter turned 4 and then i felt she was too tall to pass for 3. its not like they check for a birth certificate :)

We went to Legoland last yr with our then 3 yr old (and yes it is 3 and over have to have a ticket, not 3 and under are free). It's like $50 something for a ticket, but I paid it. I honestly don't think it's worth that much money for a 3 yr old. He's average height and so there weren't that many rides he could go on. The good thing was we went when it wasn't peak season so didn't have to wait in long lines. Now though I didn't like paying that much for him to get in he did have a good time and I wanted us to go before my husband deployed so he had a good memory of a fun time with daddy. I on the other hand paid admission price for me to stand around with our just over 1 yr old since he couldn't go on anything. Oh, and the water park had it's own little entrance inside of Legoland and it cost extra to get in.

I say forget about Legoland and go to Sea World. That's where you have a free admission for you, right? He can enjoy the animal shows and there is Seasame Street Bay of play that has three kiddie rides that he can enjoy and a big play area to run around in and climb on. You can pack a cooler with your lunch and leave it in the car and eat it when you're ready and then go back in. I would shove some snacks in the bottom of a diaper bag or whatever for the kiddos. Though you're not supposed to bring food in I saw plenty of people eating their sandwiches for lunch that they brought in.

Whatever you decide to do I hope you have a good time! : )

I have had the Seaworld annual pass for residents for 2 years, and the expiration date was in June, 6 months after my daughter's 3rd bday. I figured when mine expired, I would then buy hers also. We went A LOT, and only 2 weeks before the expiration date, one guy at the gate asked how old my daughter was. NO ONE ever asked me before, so we would just cruised through. And we were let through that time too. But, when you are buying tickets, they will ask you, it will be up to you to say either 2 or 3, they will not ask her birthday or anything, they will just go by the age you give them. If you do decide to go with 2, hopefully your daughter doesn't throw you under the bus, by saying loudly "I'm 3 Mommy!!" LOL... Well, have fun!

Guilty-lol. Just make sure your DD doesnt out you at the ticket line lol. Have dad distract her while your purchasing tickets so she cant hear you. I wouldnt want her to get confused about whats right & wrong. Honestly, I dont think it would say anything about your "character" and I dont look at it as "stealing" I mean, afterall, your paying an adult admission and for food and extras while your there. I'll bet everyone one of those employees can get up to 5 people in free or at a VERY discounted employee rate so your no better or worse than the ones that are getting in free for knowing an employee. Im sure others who say they havent done this have either thought about it, or dont wana fess up. Have a great trip & do what you are comfortable with.

Call and ask if it's 3 and under or not 3. Maybe that'll help you :)

We just did this with our 3 yr old when we went to Disney. We went to Disney in June, and she had just turned 3 two weeks earlier. She was in a stroller, and no questions were asked. They are not going to challenge it. It's not like they check ID or anything. It saved us 70 dollars, and with the money that Disney brings in just on a daily basis, plus everything being way over priced to begin with, I didn't feel bad about it at all.Not to mention by the time we ate, and bought souviners we had more than made up for not paying the 70 dollars for her. Nobody is going to question it, and nobody is going to ask her how old she is. Some people are over thinking this way too much. There is no reason SHE will have to lie. Just don't have her right under your nose when you get the tickets, she could stand off to the side with your hubby for a moment, this way the opportunity for a slip up on her part will never present its self, and keep the whole plan to yourself.

I did that. He had turned 3 two weeks prior but no one said a word. I just handed them the tickets and in we went. Now with my 8 year old I have problems all the time the opposite way. She has always been big. when she was 3 or 4 people thought she was 6 or 7. now she looks like a 12 year old and people want to charge the older child prices.

I have yes. My 3 yo is turning 4 next month and is in the 95th percentile on height and weight so we haven't been able to do that for a while... honestly not a big deal - she just turned 3, so what.

I would just feel too guilty to try it! At the movies, I think I didn't a few times b/c they sat on my lap anyways. At that time, I didn't even realize my son had passed the age limit. Once I realized it I paid in full. It's all about teaching honesty and being honest, even though it's expensive!

I wouldn't want to do it, but my husband would talk me into it. :)

Are you kidding me... My oldest is about to be 4 and our youngest is about to be 3... My oldest is also very verbal, but she is very thin. But we go places that are under 2 are free and we just say 2 under 2.. We will try this for as long a possible. Ethical or not. Alot of people ask me if my kids are twins, even though my oldest is taller.. So we just play on that.
Yes... AND I DOT FEEL BAD OR GUILTY. actually. I feel good about it. I brag about how I only spent so much $ and saved so much $... Hahaha I kno, I'm such a bad person and a bad mom, my kids will grow up to be thieves and murderers because when they were toddlers their mommy and daddy snuck them into places... OMG jump off the high horse already.

I've never been questioned. Go for it!

And I have a feeling that a majority of the moms who have said they'd never lie have snuck food into movie theaters.

I haven't, but I would in a case like this... if I were a "good" liar. Lying makes me nervous. Lol. Anyway, we have a KIDS theme park here that, were we to go, would cost us $150! It's all too common for places to charge ridiculous prices for little to no fun for certain ages. So you go ahead and let them think she's under 3. Have fun! =o)

get that kid in for free!!! we did it as long as we could

A 3 year old can do very little at Legoland, they won't meet height restrictions on many rides. We used to have passes and gave up. Go to their website and check her height to their limits first before making the trip. Most rides are 2 seaters, which doesn't work for our family of 5.
Not the answer to your question but I wanted to bring it up.

Are you sure it's "under 3" or is it "3 and under"? I would recheck the wording. My husband would have said they were 2, but I know I probably wouldn't have.

Have a fun vacation!!

We have passes to Disneyland and go there often. We discussed this with some of the workers there. They can't really press you to prove your child's age so it is on the honor system. They can usually tell within a year of the child's age (for example, a 3 year old could still look 2, but by age 4 they are obviously NOT 2). So Disneyland makes their "free" age be 2 and under, knowing that it really means 3 and under. So they give you that year of leeway. I think most places are lenient like that. You're stressing and feeling dishonest, and some people who answered are just making you feel worse. But according to the ultimate amusement park (Disney) you're fine if it's within a year of the "under" age... so I say don't trip!

I can't believe the judgemental people on here... So it makes you a bad person to lie?? So I guess all these people out here tell their kids that Santa is not real, that there is no tooth fairy, that babies come when mommy and daddy do the deed? Lol yes lieing is bad but sometimes it is the best option.... Do not judge others till u r in their position... U r saying if u can't afford it, don't go but what about all those people out there without jobs that struggle to make ends meet but really want to buy their child a birthday present, They do it because they want to give happiness to their child, they might not be able to afford it but who can blame them for trying to make their child happy? Those people on here that r acting like they are holier then thou really need a reality check and to stop thinking that they are better then other people.

Yeap! I didn't pay for my oldest until he turned four. Nobody ever questioned his age.

Do it....but don't drag your daughter into it! Don't tell her, hey...if they ask you, tell them you're 2.5. It's your little lie, don't make it hers.

My husband just did that with our son.......and I was only earked becasue he dragged our inocent boy into his cheapness (yes, cheapness in this case.) You know......they would never ask a kid their age...it's just silly, so keep it your lie, not hers!

S.

I let our zoo membership for "parent-and-child-under-3" expire before buying a new more expensive membership for "parent-and-child-age-3-and-over" - about 3 months after kiddo turned 3. Also -he's a late September baby, but as far as the airlines were concerned, he didn't turn two until early January, AFTER the Thanksgiving and Christmas airfares were purchased and flights were completed! That white lie about a lap baby saved us almost $800 that year.

These acts were completed w/ a non-verbal kiddo, tho - if there's a chance that someone would ask your daughter how old she is (or if you'd have to say "She's 2" and she'd blurt out "No, Mama, I'm THREE!) then I wouldn't try it. Sorry. :(

I have. it is just a random date. At 3 yrs and 2 months she cannot ride all the rides, will probably nap during the peak time and will not "use" the park the way an older child will. Unless she is in the habit of engaging in conversations with EVERYONE and announcing her age! It is not stealing an item. unless the park is on the verge of bankruptcy...... it will not be hurt. It isn't something you can do for years but its only two months! I just ask for one adult ticket and no one has EVER acted like they cared how old he or she was.

i say lett her in free stuff at the park is expensive plus she is three they can live hehe lol

Well, I guess I am just a bad human being. I have lied about my kids age. Whether it be that I lied that they were older or younger. I don't have to justify it to anyone. It is what it is. And you know what? I am a GREAT mother and a great role model. Sometimes I just don't tell the truth.
L.

If its 3 and under, wouldn't she still qualify?? She just turned 3. If its 2 and under are free, then thats pushing it. I think since its only a few months since her b-day---you could get away with it. It wouldn't sit well with me, but I wouldn't judge you for it---you have to do what you have to do to survive. If money is too tight-do what it takes. GL and have fun!

M

I know it's not honest, but I probably would. I mean the prices are just ridiculous. If I can get a discount, I would. However, I would be careful not to do it in front of my child or ask my child to actively participate. I would just buy the tickets without any commotion and just hand the tickets and walk in. I mean really? Are they going to question you?
I've done it at restaurants when my kids were younger. They were all on the smaller side and didn't eat much anyway. So I don't think anyone cares. I mean, they're not getting more food, it's still the kids plate. And, sometimes waiters will even suggest it. It's not always enforced. My husband eats at the same restaurant every week and they let him (at 44) order off the senior menu!!! haha

yes, I have her say she's younger too and explain why. My daughter is average height but small boned and usually appears younger than she is. It's helped a lot.

oohh please lieng about a kids age is not gonna be the end of the world..how is your child gonna know that you are telling a lie by doing this is not gonna teach him to lie..yes we have gone to seaworld and said my three year old is 2 it's not the worst lie you'l ever tell..lets be realistic.

I agree with some of the ladies, Legoland is not worth taking a 3 year old, just stick with Sea World.

well i certainly wouldn't get my kid lying for me. but i do understand. thing is my son has ALWAYS been big for his age. i was always on the other end of the spectrum, "no, he really is 3 i swear." just from the guilt i felt in THINKING people thought i was cheating, i'm pretty sure i wouldn't ever do it deliberately. that said, if you're already getting free room and board, free adult tickets...if you REALLY can't afford one child's ticket to these things, then maybe it's not the best idea. you know? i kinda feel like it would be bad karma to then ALSO cheat the system and get your dd in free too. just doesn't seem right, but that's just me.

on the other hand i have a coworker whose daugher is TINY, and she has no qualms whatsoever about lying to people about her age. and she has a crapton of disposable income. so it does happen.

I went to sea world a couple of months ago. We were gifted 4 tickets one which was for my 3 year old (soon to be 4) son. When we walked in the lady only scanned the two (for my husband and I). At the end we were left with one unused ticket. ( The 4th ticket was used by a relative)

I did it at Disneyland a few times. My son turned 3 at the end of May and my season pass expired at the end of June. We went 3-4 times. No one ever asked his age.

Make sure your daughter is at least 36" tall or she won't be able to ride more than 1-2 rides at Legoland. And bring a bathing suit, because the water play area inside the park (NOT the separate water park) is a lot of fun.

If you're ever in the market for a fun, inexpensive theme park, look into Adventure City in Anaheim. It's only $15 per person, parking is free, and the rides are perfect for a preschooler. It's really small, so you'll only spend a few hours there, but your daughter will love it.

Yes I have done it, but at the local fair where the tickets were $10. I also sneak snacks into the movies. If it were a difference of like 2 weeks, I would probably do it. However in this case I would buy the ticket.

Last year we went to Disney and my in-law had my 11y neice down as a 9y so that she could pay the kid price for the meal plan. Almost every day the neice 'accidental' mentioned to someone at the park that she was over 10y.

What if they ask HER how old she is? Will you ask her to lie?

My daughter will only be two so can't answer that question right now, but we've snuck food into a theatre before.

Keep her in a stroller while going thru turnstiles.

Updated

Keep her in a stroller while going thru turnstiles.

No judgment here. Theme parks are super expensive and I understand where you're coming from)!
That said, it would probably be easier to skimp on other aspects of the trip/home stuff before you go. You never know when your daughter might decide to chat up the entrance person and tell them how much of a big girl she is now that she's 3 (or whatever). Then you would be in for some big embarrassment and still be out the money for the ticket.

I don't tell lies. Ever.

To be honest, when the county pool didn't ask me if my child was really under 2 and she was just 2, I didn't correct it.

We often have the opposite problem of proving to people what my SD's real age is as she's tall and is often assumed to be older.

For big places like that, I would pay the entry fee because it's more than the ride directly. It's the whole facility. If money is really tight, then you might want to find something else to do or do it when she's older. I find that parks like that are also expensive when you are inside ($3 water and $6 hotdogs). My friend and I recently looked at an aquarium and decided not to take our kids because at their ages they wouldn't be any more exited about the fish than they are at the local (free) nature center. We'll go when they are more interested in sharks and rays.

Heck yeah I would... She's close enough...Make sure she is not right next to you and can't hear you really... when they ask ages, as you point to her say "almost 3" :) Why not... its not like they'll go broke over not paying (over priced tickets) for a little 3 yr old to walk around when the rest of the family IS paying :) Have fun!