Lam donned a set of Minnie Mouse ears. Four-year-old students who might struggle with 2+2 or writing their names could focus on M-I-C-K-E-Y M-O-U-S-E. "They became curious and engaged," Lam said.

At long last, Disneyland has a ride themed to Mickey Mouse. The new Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway is a charmer, a lighthearted addition to Toontown that celebrates modern animation.