Universal Orlando Resort has always been known for its immersive experiences and thrilling rides, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience the magic of Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. In recent months, the excitement around the opening of Epic Universe has only intensified the park’s popularity.
Families and friends flock to the park to make lasting memories and enjoy the fun of the attractions, but not all experiences are as enchanting as expected.
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While many visitors come to Universal to have a good time, sometimes unexpected situations arise that can leave guests shocked and frustrated. What happens when a moment of joy takes an unpleasant turn due to the actions of other guests, and more importantly, their children?
One recent encounter at Universal Orlando Resort raised questions about personal space, respect for others, and the responsibility of parents to control their children’s behavior in public spaces.
Reddit user unsung_requiem shared their surprising experience from a recent trip to Universal Orlando Resort, where they found themselves in an uncomfortable situation involving a young child.
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The guest, who uses a wooden cane that often draws curiosity from others, was at the park with their wife, taking a picture together. With the cane resting beside them, the guest momentarily took their hand off it, which was when the incident occurred.
A child, estimated to be around 10-12 years old, ran up and grabbed the cane, beginning to play with it. What followed left the guest bewildered. When the guest asked for the cane back, the parents of the child didn’t react as expected. Instead of correcting the child, the parent told the guest they shouldn’t be upset!
Parents, please keep your kids “in check,” and to keep their hands to themselves.
At universal today with my wife, and I was taking a picture of her. I use a cane, and I admit it’s a nice wooden cane. A lot of people ask to see it, which I don’t usually mind them showing it. It was next to me, though I didn’t have my hand on it because I was holding the phone up to take the picture.
A kid (I’m guessing 10-12) runs up, grabs my cane, and starts playing with it. When I asked for it back their parent/guardian said “what’s the harm, we’re here for fun! He’s just checking it out” while he was swinging it around.
I’m very grateful to the TM who witnessed it and came over immediately to tell them that they needed to return our property. But he shouldn’t have needed to, it shouldn’t have happened in the first place.
Parents, please tell your kids not to touch other people’s properties.
Can’t believe I have to say this…
byu/unsung_requiem inUniversalOrlando
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For the guest, this was more than just an uncomfortable moment. It was a clear violation of personal space and property, and the lack of accountability from the parents was even more troubling. After a brief interaction, a Universal staff member stepped in, intervening on the guest’s behalf and telling the parents that the cane needed to be returned. While this was appreciated, the guest was left wondering why such an intervention was necessary in the first place.
Other commenters echoed similar frustrations, with one user writing:
I am a parent of a 3 year old and we just went to universal a couple days ago, and when I tell you I was absolutely appalled at other people’s parenting while we were there. And also just a ton of people in general having zero manners, common courtesy, or common sense, of all ages. Idk what it was about universal but we saw way more shitty behavior there than at the Disney parks, and it really kind of ruined the day
As many pointed out, such behavior goes beyond just minor mischief—it reflects a lack of respect for others. Visitors expect to have fun, but there are also unwritten rules about personal boundaries and mutual respect that everyone should follow. Whether it’s in theme parks, restaurants, or other crowded places, the principle remains the same: respect for others’ property and personal space is crucial.
Unfortunately, this is not the first time incidents of entitled behavior have surfaced in the theme park world, and it is unlikely to be the last. From disruptive children to adults ignoring basic social norms, these occurrences bring attention to the need for better education on courtesy, especially when it comes to families visiting popular destinations like Universal Orlando Resort.
Thankfully, as in this case, park staff are trained to handle these types of situations and ensure all guests are able to enjoy their time at the park safely and respectfully.
Have you experienced any similar incidents while visiting theme parks? What are your thoughts on the role of parents in regulating their children’s behavior in public places? Share your stories and join the conversation in the comments below!
I would have escorted this kid out with his parents, not cute at that age, no age. Universal was too lax, glad I wasn’t there, I wouldn’t have been so nice to just tell the kid to give it back. He doesn’t deserve to be around people trying to have a good time
Awful behavior!! This is the problem with our kids today! No discipline and no respect!!
We also found so many ignorant people at the Universal parks. Rude adults and children bumping into us with NO apology. Standing in long lines having to listen to the foul mouth vulger parents ignoring kids of all ages climbing and trying to destroy anything that they feel is a game and belongs to them since they paid to enter the parks. Parents on the phone running you over with carriages while on their phones telling us to move out of the way. Try to find a great viewing spot an hour before for the parade and then come privileged parents minutes before parade time and move their kids in front of us then move up with the kids as the parade starts.
WE love the folks that squeeze in the line as one person is in line on the phone but 8-10 come join them. we won’t return to Universal.