A Disney Cast Member is anyone who works at the parks. They might operate a ride, work in the shows, be a host or server at a restaurant, or work with a character during meet and greets. Unfortunately, many of the Cast Members aren't as appreciated as they should be, despite all the hard work they put in to ensure that every guests has a magical experience. Here's some things you can do to make a Cast Member's life a little easier.

1. Be polite.

They get it. You’re hot, tired, hungry, thirsty, and you just want your kid to get a front row seat for the parade. Don’t take it out on the Cast Members who are trying to to help in any way they can. Cast Members want to make sure everyone has a great experience.

2. Follow the rules.

No flash photography means no flash photography. Stay seated and keep your hands and legs inside the ride mean just that. The rules apply to every guest, not everyone except you. If a rule is broken, whether accidentally or on purpose, cooperate with the Cast Member. Mistakes happen, and if you’re honest and polite, they’ll appreciate it very much.

3. Be on time.

Cast Members need to help a lot of people at the same time. In order to keep everything flowing smoothly, it's best for everyone involved if you get to your reservation or FastPass on time. However, if there was some kind of delay that was out of your control, you can certainly ask if they can still accommodate you.

4. Don’t be a creep.

I can’t believe I even have to say this, but there have been instances with adults, usually men, being inappropriate with female Cast Members and characters, usually princesses. Just don’t. It’s their job to smile and be nice, and while they do enjoy it, that doesn’t mean you can take advantage of them.

5. Clean up after yourself.

Whether you’re getting a bite to eat or in a hurry to leave your room in the morning, please be aware of how you’re leaving the space. In your hotel, Mousekeeping is all too happy to accommodate your needs, but no one wants to constantly be cleaning up an extraordinarily messy room. In the parks, there’s a trash can about 20 steps away from you at any given time. It’s not hard to toss that churro wrapped or Dole Whip cup into the garbage instead of leaving it on the ground.

6. Keep the wisecracks to a minimum.

Yes, they’re hot in their costumes. If they’re operating an Omnimover and walking in place, they’re very aware that they aren’t actually going anywhere. They’re just as tired and sweaty as you are, and they don't need to be reminded.

7. Think about your question before you ask it.

Don’t ask them what time the three o’clock parade starts or if you can still ride Tower of Terror after the park closes. Of course, Cast Members are happy to answer your questions, but it always helps to do a little digging yourself, whether through the MyDisneyExperience app or a park schedule. That being said…

8. Ask them for their opinions!

Asking a Cast Member what their favorite attraction is is a great way to strike up a conversation, and learn something new about the parks. You can get their opinion on where to eat, or if a certain attraction is appropriate for the young’uns in your crew.

9. Ask EPCOT CMs about where they’re from!

The Cast Members in EPCOT’s World Showcase are from the country they work in. If you’re unfamiliar with the customs of a certain country, you can ask one of the Cast Members at the KidCot station. If you’re not sure what to say, you can ask how to say something simple in their native language. If you know the language of the country you’re in, try saying hello or thank you in that language when interacting with a Cast Member!

10. Overall, they're happy to take questions.

Want to know where the bride's ring is in the Haunted Mansion queue? Want to know the best place to see Wishes? Maybe you're on a Hidden Mickey hunt for the first time and having some trouble spotting them. Whatever you're looking for, Cast Members are there to help.

11. Show your appreciation!

As previously mentioned, Cast Members have rough jobs. They're standing all day, wearing heavy costumes in the heat, and are paid minimum wage. A smile and a "thank you" goes a long way.

Cast Members keep Disney World and Disneyland running like well-oiled machines. Whether it's trading pins or offering accommodations, they're are happy to oblige. Even though they perform superhuman feats on a daily basis, they are only human, just like the guests they serve every day. The least we can do to show our appreciation is to try to make their lives a little bit easier.